Efficacy studies to large-scale transport: the development and validation of multisystemic therapy programs

Area of Science:

• Clinical Psychology
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Youth Services

Background:

• Multisystemic therapy (MST) originated from university-based efficacy studies.
• The model has expanded over 35 years to community practice settings.
• Adaptations have been made for diverse youth clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the 35-year progression of multisystemic therapy (MST).
• To highlight the transition from efficacy research to community-based implementation.
• To identify factors supporting the successful transport of MST.

Main Methods:

• Review of efficacy, effectiveness, and transportability trials of MST.
• Description of quality improvement systems for community-based MST.
• Analysis of factors influencing therapist fidelity and youth outcomes.

Main Results:

• Successful efficacy and effectiveness trials led to transportability research.
• Quality improvement systems have been implemented in community MST programs for 15 years.
• Therapist fidelity, supervisors, consultants, and organizations significantly impact youth outcomes.

Conclusions:

• MST has successfully transitioned to large-scale community practice.
• Intensive quality improvement and support systems are crucial for MST transportability.
• Federal and state initiatives have supported the dissemination of evidence-based services like MST.