BH-CONNECT will clarify existing coverage requirements for three Evidence-Based Practices for children, youth and families pursuant to the Early Periodic Screening Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.
These include:
Functional Family Therapy (FFT) is an effective, short-term, family-based, proprietary counseling service which seeks to empower families to solve their own problems through growth and change. FFT is designed for young people (ages 10-18) who are at risk of, or have been referred for, behavioral or emotional problems (e.g., delinquency, substance use).
Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) is an intensive, evidence-based, family-driven, proprietary treatment model for youth (ages 12 to 17 years old) who are involved in the juvenile justice system or who are at risk of out-of-home placement due to a history of delinquent behavior. This service emphasizes cultural responsiveness and the centering of home and community settings, as well as partnership with law enforcement and the juvenile justice system.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based, short-term treatment designed to foster the well-being of children and families of all cultures by teaching parents strategies that will promote positive behaviors in children and youth (ages 2 to 7) who exhibit challenging behaviors such as defiance and aggression.
For additional information about the EPSDT mandate and delivery of behavioral health services to youth, counties should refer to the Medi-Cal Coverage for EPSDT policy document.
