MST Family Therapist

The MST Family Therapist works with families to create strength-based, sustainable behavioral change. Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) is specifically designed to treat youth aged 11-17 and their caregivers to alleviate serious behavior issues such as aggression, poor academic performance, delinquency involvement, and problematic sexual behavior (with additional training). Therapists provide intensive family therapy (2-3 sessions per week) in the client’s home, school, or other community locations. This program serves the entire Cook County area. Therapists carry small caseloads (4-6 families) so they have sufficient time to dedicate to each family’s needs. Due to the nature of this role, employees must be able to dedicate their full time and attention to the position. Outside employment/schooling that could interfere with job performance or availability for clients is not permitted.

MST incorporates treatment interventions that are evidence-based and places a high premium on approaching each client/family as unique. Treatment progress is made through intensive interventions such as skill-building, changing negative family interactions, and increasing social support. Therapists also work with collaterals such as teachers, DCFS, juvenile justice, and other systems that the youth is involved in to ensure continuity of services.

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or Marriage/Family Therapy required.

• A valid driver’s license and daily access to own vehicle required

• Willingness to conduct sessions in clients’ homes/community locations throughout the Cook County area required

• Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies as needed required

• Some experience/internship working with at-risk youth and/or families preferred, particularly in juvenile justice, child welfare, residential, or psychiatric settings

• Bilingual in Spanish a plus

• Full paid training in the MST standard model and problematic sexual behavior adaptation

• Weekly consultation with MST expert regarding case issues

• Weekly individual and group supervision

• Written feedback and professional development plans from the MST consulting expert

• Ongoing booster trainings on a quarterly basis

• Excellent opportunity for newer clinicians who are looking to develop their clinical skills

• Quarterly staff appreciation outings and wellness events provided by agency

Youth Outreach Services is a drug-free workplace and compliance with this policy is a condition of employment and continued employment.