YOS believes the family unit is an incredible asset in every youth’s life and should be nurtured and maintained.
A family-focused, evidence-based initiative designed to serve youth ages 12-17 who struggle with complex emotional, social, and academic issues, as well as delinquency, such as:
- Truancy and academic performance
- Serious disrespect and disobedience
- Aggressive behaviors (i.e., fighting and property destruction)
- Criminal activity
- Drug and alcohol abuse
- Runaway tendencies
This program serves all of Cook County, IL. MST therapists provide home-based and 24/7 on-call services for 3-6 months, using individualized treatment plans that incorporate the family’s values, beliefs, and culture. To prevent the removal of youth from their homes and their involvement in the juvenile justice system, the YOS MST Program helps youth develop the abilities they need to positively modify their behavior while also providing parents and primary caregivers the skills and resources they need to independently address the difficulties of raising teens with behavior problems.
YOS also offers two MST adaptations, including MST for Problem Sexual Behavior (MST-PSB) and MST for Emerging Adults (MST-EA).
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
This evidence-based treatment is designed for children and adolescents who have been affected by trauma and their parents or caregivers. Studies have demonstrated that TF-CBT is effective in resolving a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues that are linked to single, multiple, and complex traumatic experiences. If you want to learn more about this treatment, please contact 773-777-7112 and ask to speak with a trauma specialist.
Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) Services
Youth Outreach Services (YOS) provides two evidence-based treatment programs for children, adolescents, and their families affected by problematic sexual behavior (PSB). Both programs focus on promoting safety, accountability, healthy development, and lasting behavior change while supporting families throughout the treatment process.
Multi-Systemic Therapy for Problematic Sexual Behavior (MST–PSB)
Multi-Systemic Therapy for Problematic Sexual Behavior (MST-PSB) is an intensive, evidence-based family therapy program for youth ages 10–17½ who have demonstrated problematic sexual behaviors, such as unwanted sexual touching, incest, or other concerning sexual behaviors.
MST-PSB addresses the many factors that influence a young person’s behavior—including family, peers, school, and community—to reduce risk and strengthen protective supports. Treatment is delivered primarily in the family’s home and community, making services accessible and tailored to each family’s needs.
Therapists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide crisis support and work closely with families to develop comprehensive safety plans that reduce the risk of future incidents. YOS also collaborates with Children’s Advocacy Centers and other community partners to ensure victims receive appropriate trauma-focused treatment and support.
Program Details
- Youth Ages: 10–17½
- Service Area: All of Cook County
- Cost: Free of charge
- Treatment Length: Approximately 6–7 months
- Frequency: Typically three sessions per week
- Eligibility: Youth must reside with a long-term caregiver or be expected to return home from placement within three to four months.
Problematic Sexual Behavior – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT)
Problematic Sexual Behavior–Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment program for adolescents ages 12–18 who have demonstrated inappropriate or problematic sexual behaviors. The program combines structured group therapy, family therapy, and active caregiver participation to help youth develop healthy coping skills, improve decision-making, strengthen family relationships, and prevent future harmful behaviors. Treatment is individualized to meet each family’s unique needs while promoting accountability, healing, and long-term success.
Some participants may be involved with the juvenile justice system due to illegal sexual behavior. When appropriate, YOS also provides family safety planning and reunification services to support safe reintegration within the home and community. Research consistently shows that caregiver involvement is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes, making family participation an essential component of treatment.
- Youth Ages: 12–18
- Service Area: All of Cook County
- Cost: Free of charge
- Treatment Length: Approximately 12 months
- Format: Open enrollment group
- Meeting Schedule: Weekly group sessions
- Availability: Families may begin services throughout the year.
- Locations and Times: Available by contacting YOS.
Why Evidence-Based PSB Treatment Matters
Our goal is to help youth develop healthy, appropriate behaviors while promoting family healing and protecting vulnerable individuals. Through evidence-based treatment, family engagement, and individualized safety planning, YOS helps young people build the skills needed to make positive, lasting changes.
Research Shows PSB Treatment Can Lead to Better Outcomes
Compared to traditional treatment approaches, evidence-based PSB interventions have demonstrated:
- 6 times fewer rearrests for sexual offenses
- 2 times fewer rearrests for non-sexual offenses
- 83% fewer arrests for sexual offenses after eight years
- 70% fewer arrests for other criminal offenses after eight years
- 80% fewer days spent in detention facilities
These outcomes demonstrate the long-term effectiveness of evidence-based treatment in reducing recidivism, strengthening families, and improving community safety.
Help Us Protect and Strengthen Families
Community support makes these life-changing programs possible. Your generosity enables Youth Outreach Services (YOS) to provide free, evidence-based treatment that helps adolescents heal, strengthens families, and creates safer communities.
Make a gift today to help more young people and families access the specialized care they need. Every donation expands access to critical services, promotes lasting healing, and empowers youth to build healthier, brighter futures.