IFFT

We provide family-centered healing with our innovative Intensive Family-Focused Therapy (IFFT) developed by Dr. Sunseri. IFFT is generally covered or partially by most insurance plans.

Our Research-Based Program for Children and Teens

Intensive Family-Focused Therapy (IFFT) is an innovative family-based treatment model for children and adolescents with moderate to severe mental health conditions such as self-harm, suicidal thoughts, demand avoidance, highly oppositional behavior, severe emotion dysregulation depression, and anxiety. IFFT is effective for children and teens who have not responded to other treatments such as individual therapy, group therapy, and Individualized Outpatient Programs (IOP). IFFT is also effective for stabilizing a child in their family home to avoid psychiatric hospitalization or residential care.

Science-Based Treatment

IFFT is grounded in science-based clinical interventions. For a deep-dive into IFFT and what it entails, along with a case study, see our article published in the peer-review American Journal of Family Therapy.

(Note IFFT was formerly called IIFT)

David

"For many years the only communication I had from my daughter contained anger, screaming, profanity, violence, and property damage. I didn’t think I would ever have a good relationship with my daughter again. Now, after working with Dr. Sunseri and his team, we have laughter in our house again with calm, open communication. The family dynamic has changed so much for the better."

Paul Sunseri | TEDx

Dr. Paul Sunseri is an expert in family therapy and children's mental health. Watch his TEDx talk for insights on the important role that parents play in improving their child or teen's mental health.

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How It Works

IFFT is generally covered or partially covered by most insurance plans.

Treatment Plan

An Initial clinical assessment will be conducted for your family to determine your needs and strengths, followed by the development of a treatment plan specific to your own family. Clinical interventions are highly individualized and targeted to your child or adolescent's unique needs.

Evidence-Based Approaches

Several evidence-based treatment approaches are routinely used with each family, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), attachment-based treatments, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Elements of each of these approaches are woven skillfully and effectively into almost every therapy session.

Collaborative Services

Family-centered, flexible, strength-based, and highly collaborative services are core components of IFFT. We will coordinate your child's clinical services with other ancillary treatment providers (e.g., the child's psychiatrist, school, insurance company, and so on) to reduce confusion and ensure smooth service delivery.

Around the Clock Availability

The majority of family life, and the challenges and worries that can come with parenting a child with a mental health issue, take place outside of the therapy hour. In IFFT, we strongly believe that helping parents and children in the moment when as an issue is unfolding is vital to the treatment process and a comfort to parents. To that end, IFFT therapists are available after hours for coaching, support, and guidance when it can be most helpful.

Request Speaker

If you are interested in having Dr. Sunseri conduct a training, workshop, or be a keynote speaker at your event, please reach out.

NCAFT

In 2026, please join us at our National Conference for the Advancement of Family Therapies and delve into the vital role that family therapy plays in addressing child and adolescent mental health. Join global thought leaders for insightful discussions.

Learn More

Dr. Sunseri's New Book

A treatment manual for children and teens with serious mental health conditions, as well as a guide for parents on how to best love and support their child during recovery. The book also Includes an 18-point strategic plan for reversing the childhood mental health epidemic.

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