Brief Strategic Family Therapy
Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) is an evidence-based treatment model available to families in Berrien County, Michigan thanks to a collaborative effort between Berrien County Family Court, Riverwood Center and AWS.
BSFT is an effective and practical approach to reducing problem behaviors in children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 years old. BSFT gives families the tools and know-how to reduce the risk factors that trigger negative behaviors using interventions that improve problematic family relations and skill-building strategies that strengthen families.
Research and studies prove BSFT is effective in reducing:
- Conduct problems
- Associations with antisocial peers
- Early substance use
- Problematic family relations
BSFT focuses on, and involves, the entire family. That’s why all family members are asked to participate in sessions. BSFT believes family relations play a pivotal role in making positive changes in the lives of children.
Services can be implemented in a variety of settings, including the family home, an office or clinic. Families typically meet once a week with a therapist for 8 to 12 weeks although more frequent meetings may be needed when a crisis occurs, which means real opportunities for change.
