Brief Strategic Family Therapy
Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) is an evidence-based, trauma-informed family therapy program. BSFT utilizes interventions to change interactions and create a healthy family unit that sees the caregivers as trustworthy leaders of the household.


We’re here to help with:
-
Stress & Anxiety
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
-
Trauma
Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process.
-
Depression
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
-
Behavioral Challenges in Children & Teens
Supporting children and teens as they navigate behavioral challenges in their day-to-day lives.
-
Justice & Legal Involvement
Supporting you as you navigate the legal system and pursue justice.
-
Family Conflict
Collaborating with families to better communication and understanding between family members.
-
Substance Abuse
Offering support and treatment options for managing substance use and promoting recovery.
-
Parenting Support
Helping you to create a healthy, nurturing environment for your family and supporting you through your parenting journey.
-
Mood Disorders
Identifying and treating mood disorders.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Brief Strategic Family Support services, you must:
- Have a child or children aged 6 to 17 years old who display or are at risk for developing externalizing behaviors (substance use, conduct problems, and delinquency) and internalizing behaviors (anxiety, depression, trauma) or are at risk of out of home placement
- Be actively open with DCP&P for the duration of the service and children must reside with their legal guardian
- Have a referral from DCP&P
What to Expect
-
Reaching Out
After receiving a referral from DCP&P, a BSFT regional coordinator will meet with the family to explain the BSFT program, complete assessments, and complete paperwork.
-
Beginning Therapy
After intake, the regional coordinator will connect the family with a therapist, who will schedule the family for their first therapy session.
-
Moving Forward with Care
Therapy services are provided within the family’s home and will take place once a week for around 60 to 90 minutes. Services typically take place for 12-16 weeks.
FAQ’s
How can I obtain Brief Strategic Family Support services for my family?
You can ask your DCP&P case worker to refer you to the program to get you connected with a regional coordinator.
Are any assessments conducted during the intake for Brief Strategic Family Support?
Yes, the McMaster Family Assessment Device, the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS), and the Youth Self Report are all utilized by BSFT.
How does my child qualify for Brief Strategic Family Support services?
To qualify for Brief Strategic Family Support services, you must:
- Have a child or children aged six to 17 years old who display or are at risk for developing externalizing behaviors (substance use, conduct problems, and delinquency) and internalizing behaviors (anxiety, depression, trauma) or are at risk of out of home placement
- Be actively open with DCP&P for the duration of the service and children must reside with their legal guardian
- Have a referral from DCP&P