MST-CAN’s Child Welfare Program

Multisystemic Therapy for Child Abuse

and Neglect (MST-CAN)

Multisystemic Therapy for Child Abuse and Neglect (MST-CAN) is an evidence-based treatment and child welfare program for children (ages 6-17) and families that come under the guidance of Child Protective Services (CPS) due to physical abuse and/or neglect.

Historically, in the child maltreatment field, interventions have focused on only one individual—usually the child. They also tend to focus on only one of numerous risk factors. Scientific literature shows that the factors leading to physical abuse and neglect are complicated and interconnected, involving family, schools, and communities.

MST-CAN is an intensive therapy that provides a holistic approach. Lasting six to nine months, MST-CAN focuses on families, tailoring interventions to the specific risk factors that contribute to child physical abuse and neglect for each individual family.

The major goals of MST-CAN’s child welfare program:

• keeping families together

• assuring that children are safe

• preventing abuse and neglect

• reducing mental health difficulties experienced by adults and children

• increasing natural social support