Through logistic regression analyses, this study found that family-based therapy utilization was more likely among adolescents who were unemployed at the time of treatment, of White, non-Hispanic background, 13 years old or younger, living in urban areas, experienced in marijuana use, and with a comorbid diagnosis. The likelihood for adolescents to receive family-based therapy was not influenced by insurance coverage or gender. The clinical profile which emerged from the findings was that family-based therapy was not used as prevention or intervention but as an intermediate level of treatment or for secondary prevention of serious problems. In addition, experienced adolescent marijuana users with a history of prior admissions for treatment were those most likely to receive family-based therapy. It is recommended that future research examine other possible barriers to family counseling for adolescents, such as financing. Tables, references