Multi systemic therapy

Multi systemic therapy (MST) is a programme for the immediate whānau (family) or caregivers of at-risk rangatahi aged 10 to 17 who have challenging behaviour.

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MST programme

MST is an intensive programme run by therapists from the child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS). 

The 20-week programme supports parents and caregivers to develop new ways to respond to and resolve problems with rangatahi. Problems may include:

  • aggression
  • running away
  • skipping school
  • offending
  • drug and alcohol use.

MST is focused on empowering parents and caregivers. This approach is proven to be more effective than therapies that focus solely on the individual.

We focus on identifying strengths within your whānau that can help support long-term change. You set the goals that you want to complete.

Your rangatahi does not need to take part in the programme if they do not wish to.

How MST works

  • We visit you in your own home, so you do not have to go out.
  • We may visit you up to 3 times a week and have phone contact in between.
  • You will have access to 24/7 on-call support.

Referral information

Referrals to our service can be made through clinicians who work in one of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS and ICAFS) in:

  • Wellington
  • Porirua
  • Kāpiti
  • Hutt Valley
  • Wairarapa.

We also accept referrals from a range of organisations including:

  • Oranga Tamariki
  • New Zealand Police
  • non-governmental organisations
  • general practitioners
  • schools.

We welcome general enquiries from anyone wishing to talk to us about the programme. We do not accept self referrals.

Contact us

You can email us on ICSAdmin@mhaids.health.nz