Functional Family Therapy (FFT)

Functional family therapy (FFT) is an evidence-based treatment program for youth ages 11-18 with behavioral, emotional, or substance abuse problems. It focuses on improving family communication, problem-solving, and conflict management to reduce problematic behaviors that function within the family system — like maintaining a connection or establishing a hierarchy. The therapy’s goal is to help the family find new, healthier ways for the behavior to serve that function. FFT typically involves 8-12 sessions over 3-4 months and aims to help families build stronger, more supportive relationships.