Therapy resources for children and young people up to the age of 18 are provided by the National Agency for Children and Families. The reasons for treatment can be diverse, including various behavior problems, use of drugs, criminal behavior and violence. Therapy can take place in a home or in a treatment home. Child protection staff can apply for resources for children and families.

Therapy options at the National Agency for Children and Families

Therapy resources provided by the National Agency for Children and Families are available to children, young people and families who have received assistance from the child protection services in their municipality, when it has been assessed that further resources are needed.

The therapy options are on different levels, and are specific to the type of problem. The following are therapy options at the National Agency for Children and Families.

MST interview therapy for children with behavioral and addiction problems

Multi-systematic treatment (MST) is a treatment for children aged 12-18 years who have serious behavioral problems. The therapy, which involves counseling and support from a specialist, takes place in the home and involves first and foremost increasing the ability of parents to deal with their children’s problems.

Substance treatment centers

The National Agency for Children and Families is responsible for the operation of substance treatment centers for young people. They are intended to support young people with serious behavioral and addiction problems in cases where support in the home is insufficient.

SOC therapy - psychological services for children due to inappropriate sexual behavior

SOC therapy is a psychological service for children who display inappropriate sexual behavior and involves supporting the child and reducing the negative consequences of the behavior, and the likelihood of repeating the behavior. Different approaches are used depending on the extent of the problem, and the age and development of the child.

The role of the National Agency for Children and Families

The objective of the National Agency for Children and Families is to work for the welfare of children. The main role of the agency is to provide and support services for the benefit of children and to develop the quality of services in accordance with the best knowledge and experience at the time.

This includes the development and supervision of homes, institutions and specialized resources for children and young people.