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:
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Stress & Anxiety
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
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Trauma
Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process.
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Depression
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
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Behavioral Challenges in Children & Teens
Supporting children and teens as they navigate behavioral challenges in their day-to-day lives.
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Justice & Legal Involvement
Supporting you as you navigate the legal system and pursue justice.
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Family Conflict
Collaborating with families to better communication and understanding between family members.
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Substance Abuse
Offering support and treatment options for managing substance use and promoting recovery.
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Parenting Support
Helping you to create a healthy, nurturing environment for your family and supporting you through your parenting journey.
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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
Measurable results your whole family feels
88%
referred families actively participated in Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT), demonstrating strong engagement and commitment to family-centered support.
100%
program received referrals from every county within the service region, expanding access to care for families across the community.
100%
added Spanish-language therapy services
What to Expect
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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.
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Beginning Therapy
After intake, the regional coordinator will connect the family with a therapist, who will schedule the family for their first therapy session.
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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
Do all family members need to participate in therapy?
Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) is designed to strengthen the family as a whole, so participation from parents, caregivers, and other household members is encouraged whenever appropriate. Your therapist will work with your family to determine who should be involved in each session based on your unique needs and treatment goals.
Does Brief Strategic Family Therapy provide individual counseling?
BSFT is a family-based therapy model that focuses on improving family relationships, communication, and problem-solving rather than providing individual therapy alone. While sessions may occasionally focus on one family member, the overall goal is to strengthen the family system and create lasting positive changes that benefit everyone in the household.
Is there a cost for Brief Strategic Family Therapy services?
Families do not pay for BSFT services. The program is provided through a referral from the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) for eligible families, and insurance is not required to participate.
What if my family’s schedule makes it difficult to attend therapy?
We understand that families have busy schedules. Because BSFT is provided in your home, therapists work with families to schedule appointments at times that are as convenient as possible. Consistent participation is important for achieving the best outcomes, and your therapist will work with you to address scheduling challenges whenever possible.
What goals will my family work toward during Brief Strategic Family Therapy?
Every family’s goals are unique. Your therapist will work with you to identify strengths, address challenges, and create a treatment plan focused on improving communication, strengthening relationships, reducing concerning behaviors, and building healthy coping and problem-solving skills. Throughout the program, your progress will be reviewed and goals adjusted as your family’s needs evolve.
