This regulation defines Functional Family Therapy (FFT) as a short-term, family-based therapeutic intervention for youth ages 11–18 with moderate to serious behavioral problems, externalizing behaviors, or placement disruption risk. It specifies that FFT must be billed in 15-minute increments, delivered per Chapter 34 of Title 22-A DCMR, and cannot be billed on the same day as certain other services or while a consumer is enrolled in ACT (unless authorized). Operators must ensure proper billing practices and service coordination to remain compliant.
View official source5217 FUNCTIONAL FAMILY THERAPY 5217.1 Functional Family Therapy (“FFT”) is a short-term, family-based therapeutic intervention for youth ages eleven (11) to eighteen (18) who: Have a documented history of moderate to serious behavioral problems; Exhibit significant externalizing behavior which impairs functioning in at least one (1) area (e.g., school or home); or Are at risk of a disruption in placement. 5217.2 FFT shall: Be billed in fifteen (15) minute increments; and, Be delivered in accordance with the requirements set forth in Chapter 34 of Title 22-A DCMR. 5217.3 FFT shall not be billed on the same day as Rehabilitation Day Services, IDT, MST, CBI, TF-CBT, or TST. FFT shall not be billed while a consumer is enrolled in ACT, unless otherwise authorized. SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 69 DCR 012836 (October 21, 2022); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 013719 (December 5, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Welfare 29 DCMR § 5217