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“An excellent introduction to the theory and practice of CIFFTA, an evidence-based treatment for behavioral problems faced by Latine families and adolescents. The book presents the rationale for the approach, its theoretical bases and unifying philosophy, key components, case examples, and implementation strategies. The authors demonstrate the value of integrating culturally informed material into the very fabric of an evidence-based treatment—not as a later aspect of delivery. This book is perfect for the trainee and established practitioner alike, as well as anyone interested in how Latine families work.”

—Roberto Lewis-Fernández, MD, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University; Director, Center of Excellence for Cultural Competence and Hispanic Treatment Program, New York State Psychiatric Institute


“Family-Based Therapy for Latine Adolescents exemplifies the enduring power of building on a solid foundation. Crafted by three seasoned researchers, this book draws on years of researching, teaching, theorizing, testing, and retesting the CIFFTA model. CIFFTA's brilliance lies in its emphasis on culture and its adaptability for addressing the unique dynamics of adolescents and their families. Unlike many other manualized treatments, CIFFTA evolves flexibly with the needs of those it serves. This is an essential resource for graduate students, new clinicians, and seasoned practitioners across the mental health fields. Having followed the literature for decades, I can say this book's release is a landmark moment in family therapy.”

—Luis H. Zayas, PhD, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

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Table of Contents

Preface

I. Foundations of Latine Youth and Family Treatment

1. The Treatment of Latine Youth and Families

2. The Latine Experience: Unique Stressors, Resilience, and Tools for Systematic Assessment, with Richard C. Cervantes

3. Foundations of Effective Treatment of Latine Youth and Families

II. CIFFTA Practice Guide

4. Preparing the Ground for CIFFTA Implementation

5. CIFFTA Individual Therapy with the Adolescent

6. CIFFTA Therapy with the Entire Family

7. CIFFTA’s Psychoeducational and Modular Component

8. Case Examples Showing CIFFTA in Action

III. Broader Clinical Considerations

9. Training, Implementation, and Sustainability, with Alejandra C. Santisteban

10. Extensions to New Populations, Unique Applications, and Future Directions for CIFFTA

Appendix

References

Index

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About the Authors

Daniel A. Santisteban, PhD, is Cofounder and Director of Research at Training and Implementation Associates and Professor Emeritus at the University of Miami. A researcher in the area of culturally informed adolescent and family therapy since the 1990s, he is the primary developer of Culturally Informed and Flexible Family-Based Treatment for Adolescents (CIFFTA). Dr. Santisteban's current work focuses on creating and testing an evidence-based platform for training, coaching, and implementation that uses clinical simulations. Dr. Santisteban has authored over 50 articles and chapters and has received career research awards from the American Family Therapy Association, the National Hispanic Science Network, and Division 45 of the American Psychological Association (Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race).

• Author's website

Maite P. Mena, PsyD, is Research Assistant Professor in the School of Education and Human Development at the University of Miami. She is the codeveloper of Culturally Informed and Flexible Family-Based Treatment for Adolescents (CIFFTA). Dr. Mena’s research since the early 2000s has focused on the unique stressors faced by minority populations, such as immigration-related separations, and how CIFFTA can positively influence outcomes. Her current work focuses on evaluating CIFFTA’s effectiveness in real-world settings and enhancing CIFFTA’s trauma focus and interventions. Dr. Mena is actively involved in providing CIFFTA implementation support and training and coaching clinicians across the country. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and has presented on CIFFTA at national and local conferences.

David Santisteban, PhD, is Cofounder of Training and Implementation Associates, which supports mental health professionals, treatment agencies, and funding agencies in meeting complex implementation challenges. His early work in academic clinical research focused on the development of culturally appropriate prevention and treatment strategies for Hispanic adolescents and their families. Dr. Santisteban served as Co-Principal Investigator and/or Project Director on several clinical research grants, published and presented on the mental health needs of Hispanic families, and consulted to a number of national programs and initiatives. Since transitioning to the private sector, he has focused on the utilization of technology and simulation to develop innovative assessment and training strategies.

• Author's website

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Audience

Clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, clinical social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses; leaders in health care or social service organizations; graduate students and trainees.