Feds Give Highest Rating To MDFT Programs Supporting Youth, Families
Gold-standard rating means feds will assume half of states' cost for treatment
The U.S. federal government has given Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT) its highest effectiveness rating, designating it "Well- Supported" under Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse, and recognizing its proven effectiveness in reducing substance use, violence, and mental health symptoms among adolescents while improving school performance and family functioning. The high rating means that states with MDFT programs are eligible for federal reimbursement of 50 percent, and this funding is available not only for youth already in the child welfare system, but also for youth at imminent risk of foster care placement. Particularly in child welfare, where children are involved with the foster care system, MDFT programs are proven more effective and cost less than many other approaches.