Family Support at Home

Community-based family therapy programs

DJS uses research-supported, community-based family therapy programs to address youth needs, reduce further system involvement, and prevent out-of-home placements. These Evidence-Based Services (EBS) are included in Maryland’s Family First Prevention Services Plan, making them eligible for federal reimbursement.

These therapeutic models are designed to strengthen family functioning, support caregivers, and provide effective alternatives to out-of- home placements for youth involved with the juvenile justice system. DJS also funds and supports EBS delivery through community collaboratives (e.g., Truancy Court, Local Care Teams) to reach youth who may be diverted from formal DJS involvement.

Functional Family Therapy (FFT)

A family-based intervention focused on improving communication and relationships while reducing problem behaviors (rated  Well-Supported by the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse). 

Multisystemic Therapy (MST)

An intensive in-home model that engages the family, school, and community to address serious behavioral issues and prevent out-of-home placement (rated Well-Supported by the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse).

Family Centered Treatment (FCT) 

A family preservation model of in-home therapy that builds skills and positive behavioral patterns to stabilize the family (rated Supported Practice by the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse).

Other community-based programs

In addition to evidence-based programs, DJS partners with other providers around the state to support youth in their communities. Youth can be referred to programs like these at different points in the system, including before or instead of court proceedings or on probation or aftercare.

Youth Advocate Program (YAP) 

Youth work with a mentor from a similar background to them to support wellbeing and empower individuals to see and nurture their strengths through services delivered in their homes and communities. Individualized services include connecting youth and families with tools to help them heal from exposure to violence and other negative experiences, access basic needs supports and services, form healthy and stable relationships, meet their individualized educational, employment and emotional goals, build positive and lasting community connections, and develop essential life skills. Learn more about YAP on their website. YAP is available in Anne Arundel, Howard, and Baltimore Counties.

Choice Program

The Choice Program at UMBC utilizes a community-based, family-centered approach in order promote quality, cost-effective outcomes for young people and families in Maryland communities. We engage in a collaborative process of service: where young people set goals for themselves and are held accountable by supportive adults along the way. Our AmeriCorps Members are our clients’ biggest advocates and work tirelessly to connect families to self-identified needed resources and reinforce a strengths-based approach to youth development. Focus areas include: job readiness training, education support, foster care diversion, and probation support. Learn more about Choice on their website. Choice is available in Baltimore City and parts of the Central and Capital Couth regions.