Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment for children ages two to seven with behavioral problems. PCIT is a relatively short-term intervention, typically lasting 12 to 16 sessions.

We provide service in two treatment phases through "coaching" sessions.

The first treatment phase focuses on establishing warmth in your relationship with your child. You will learn and apply skills proven to help children feel calm, secure in their relationships with their parents, and good about themselves.

Outcomes you may observe as a result of phase one include:

• Fewer and less severe tantrums
• Fewer negative attention-seeking behaviors
• Decreased activity levels
• Less parental frustration
• Increased attention span
• Greater self-esteem
• Increased feelings of safety, security, and attachment to the primary caregiver

The second treatment phase will equip you to manage the most challenging of your child's behaviors while remaining confident, calm, and consistent in your approach to discipline. In this phase, you will learn proven strategies to help your child accept your limits, comply with your directions, respect house rules, and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public.

Outcomes you may observe as a result of phase two include:

• Less defiance
• Less frequent and severe aggressive behavior
• Less frequent destructive behavior, such as breaking things on purpose
• More respect for house rules
• Improved behavior in public
• Increased parental calmness and confidence during discipline

Treatment is considered complete when you have mastered both sets of skills and rate your child's behavior within normal limits on a behavior rating scale.

Contact us today for more information about Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.