Parent-Child Interaction Therapy or (PCIT)

It is an interaction-based, behavior-based therapy that focuses on improving your parent-child relationship. As part of this approach, child-directed interaction may facilitate the development of effective parenting techniques and reduce behavior issues as well as strengthen family bonds. During sessions with your child, you receive live coaching to teach you positive and effective parenting methods to decrease aggressive, defiant and other negative behaviors. It is a proven intervention for children ages 2-7 who display disruptive behavior such as: 

– hitting or kicking

– tantrums

– problems socializing with other people

– difficulty listening

-plus additional behaviors

How does it work? 

PCIT is conducted through live coaching with the guardian or parent and the child and can be done virtually. You and your child will be viewed by the therapist in your video session. You will be wearing an ear device so the therapist can instruct you on how to implement the skills you are learning to manage your child’s behavior in the moment.

2 treatment phases:

Child Directed Interaction or CDI – This consists of developing a valuable and warm relationship with your child and learning and applying strategies that help children feel calm, secure, and confident in relationships with you and with others. During this phase, your child’s unwanted behaviors and activities will decrease while positive behaviors will increase.  

Parent Directed Interaction or PDI – During this time, the goal is for you to be able to handle your child’s toughest behavior while remaining calm, confident, and consistent. During these sessions, you will learn proven strategies for helping your child accept your rules, set limits, and show appropriate behavior. It also strengthens your relationship with your child. 

The PCIT program can be completed within 12-20 sessions if regular attendance and homework are adhered to. When you master both sets of skills and your child’s behavior improves in accordance with rating scales that will be administered, the treatment will be successfully completed.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our PCIT therapists, complete the contact form so we can get you started in the process!