Behavioural Issues Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Alexandra Rose Szwender, BA BEd , MCAP, CCC (Q), Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Rose Szwender
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA BEd , MCAP, CCC (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Hello. I am delighted to meet with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns. My specialties and greatest areas of experience include ADHD, anxiety, school issues or behavioural issues, family dynamics (child/parent relations), as well as LGBTQA2+ related issues. I work with all age groups, but mainly children and youth, along with their parents.
Hello. I am delighted to meet with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns. My specialties and greatest areas of experience include ADHD, anxiety, school issues or behavioural issues, family dynamics (child/parent relations), as well as LGBTQA2+ related issues. I work with all age groups, but mainly children and youth, along with their parents.
(431) 244-0550 View (431) 244-0550
Photo of Robyn Dickson, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Robyn Dickson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A  (Online Only)
I use IFS to promote cognitive and behavioral transformation by considering distress as part of a larger whole.
Currently accepting new clients as part of the “Money Mapping Group” (see below). Do you tell yourself “I’m bad with money"?  Are you accumulating debt?  Do you avoid looking at your finances?  Do you undercharge and overspend?  Does the word “bank” make you feel uneasy?  Do you find yourself teetering between the feeling that money is evil but also, that you’re not worthy of money? These are common disordered financial behaviors; not only because we find ourselves in a capitalist society, but also because money can be both a source and a response to trauma.
I use IFS to promote cognitive and behavioral transformation by considering distress as part of a larger whole.
Currently accepting new clients as part of the “Money Mapping Group” (see below). Do you tell yourself “I’m bad with money"?  Are you accumulating debt?  Do you avoid looking at your finances?  Do you undercharge and overspend?  Does the word “bank” make you feel uneasy?  Do you find yourself teetering between the feeling that money is evil but also, that you’re not worthy of money? These are common disordered financial behaviors; not only because we find ourselves in a capitalist society, but also because money can be both a source and a response to trauma.
(613) 800-6986 View (613) 800-6986
Photo of Richard Sayad - South Island Counselling, RCC, Counsellor
South Island Counselling
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
(672) 202-1356 x101 View (672) 202-1356 x101
Photo of Sarah Ftaya, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Sarah Ftaya
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am the owner and founder of the Child & Family Therapy Centre Victoria. My current practice is focused on supporting children, youth, and families where the primary concern is Anxiety or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also provide counselling support to parents with children of all ages to address developmental and behavioral concerns. Involvement of parents and caregivers in the therapy process is an essential part of my practice.
I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
I am the owner and founder of the Child & Family Therapy Centre Victoria. My current practice is focused on supporting children, youth, and families where the primary concern is Anxiety or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also provide counselling support to parents with children of all ages to address developmental and behavioral concerns. Involvement of parents and caregivers in the therapy process is an essential part of my practice.
(587) 602-4758 View (587) 602-4758
Photo of Emily Clare, MA, BCYC, Counsellor
Emily Clare
Counsellor, MA, BCYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Dependent on the client's age, I implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Accepting new clients 12+ with no wait. Looking for an empathetic and non-judgemental counsellor to support you through life's challenges? I offer an evidence-based approach that can assist you in navigating different relationships, peer pressures, life transitions, and mental health challenges. I am passionate about supporting children, youth, and young adults in building resiliency and coping skills. Areas that I have experience working with are anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, and anger management.
Dependent on the client's age, I implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Accepting new clients 12+ with no wait. Looking for an empathetic and non-judgemental counsellor to support you through life's challenges? I offer an evidence-based approach that can assist you in navigating different relationships, peer pressures, life transitions, and mental health challenges. I am passionate about supporting children, youth, and young adults in building resiliency and coping skills. Areas that I have experience working with are anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, and anger management.
(709) 400-6272 View (709) 400-6272
Louise C Fennell
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
I provide therapeutic support for children and youth using cognitive behavioral and person centered approaches.
I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
I provide therapeutic support for children and youth using cognitive behavioral and person centered approaches.
I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
(778) 766-4507 View (778) 766-4507
Photo of Sarah Flynn - Synergia Counselling and Consulting, RCC, MA, MREM, Counsellor
Synergia Counselling and Consulting
Counsellor, RCC, MA, MREM
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
I draw from a range approaches depending upon your needs and preferences. Among them are cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiological ideas, family systems therapy, and attachment theory. It is common for clients to arrive with issues identified only to discover that there are other deeper and more fundamental issues which underlie them. I work at a pace compatible with your ability to integrate change. I am gentle and encouraging, but firm and forthright. I provide a free initial consultation so you can determine whether you feel comfortable with me. My aim is for you to feel welcome, safe and comfortably challenged.
I draw from a range approaches depending upon your needs and preferences. Among them are cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiological ideas, family systems therapy, and attachment theory. It is common for clients to arrive with issues identified only to discover that there are other deeper and more fundamental issues which underlie them. I work at a pace compatible with your ability to integrate change. I am gentle and encouraging, but firm and forthright. I provide a free initial consultation so you can determine whether you feel comfortable with me. My aim is for you to feel welcome, safe and comfortably challenged.
(888) 743-1028 View (888) 743-1028
Photo of Tara Anne Poole, BEd, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Tara Anne Poole
Counsellor, BEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8V
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), codependency, addiction, autism, body image issues, family and parenting difficulties, self-harm, and eating disorders. My goal is to assist individuals in achieving improved emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and I prioritize creating a safe, support, and trusting counselling environment.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), codependency, addiction, autism, body image issues, family and parenting difficulties, self-harm, and eating disorders. My goal is to assist individuals in achieving improved emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and I prioritize creating a safe, support, and trusting counselling environment.
(506) 307-6935 View (506) 307-6935
Photo of Rebecca Wood, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rebecca Wood
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Are you wanting to build skills to manage distress, emotionally regulate, and improve your interpersonal communication? Do you want to be more present in your life? Are you committed to self-development through learning new skills and applying them in your daily life outside of therapy? Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) may be what you are looking for if you are ready to put this hard work into action. I am currently accepting new clients for DBT groups, and running a waitlist for individual services.
Are you wanting to build skills to manage distress, emotionally regulate, and improve your interpersonal communication? Do you want to be more present in your life? Are you committed to self-development through learning new skills and applying them in your daily life outside of therapy? Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) may be what you are looking for if you are ready to put this hard work into action. I am currently accepting new clients for DBT groups, and running a waitlist for individual services.
(548) 490-1559 View (548) 490-1559
Photo of Shannon MacGregor, RTC, MTC, CLC, RCS, Counsellor
Shannon MacGregor
Counsellor, RTC, MTC, CLC, RCS
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8S  (Online Only)
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
(249) 501-9178 View (249) 501-9178
Photo of Tanya Marie Switucka, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Tanya Marie Switucka
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the way we thinks and feel affects the way we behave.
Currently accepting new clients (teens and adults) for in person and virtual sessions. I offer a direct and action-oriented approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment and Person Centered therapy. My goal is always to capture a client’s inner wisdom and strength, even when they don’t realize they possess these qualities! I have worked as a counsellor with youth, families and adults for over 20 years in settings that include schools, the community and the public sector. www.tanyamtherapy.com
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the way we thinks and feel affects the way we behave.
Currently accepting new clients (teens and adults) for in person and virtual sessions. I offer a direct and action-oriented approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment and Person Centered therapy. My goal is always to capture a client’s inner wisdom and strength, even when they don’t realize they possess these qualities! I have worked as a counsellor with youth, families and adults for over 20 years in settings that include schools, the community and the public sector. www.tanyamtherapy.com
(579) 977-1272 View (579) 977-1272
Photo of Jennifer Anne Keeling - StarlingLaneTherapyServices, RCC, MACP, Dr CP, Counsellor
StarlingLaneTherapyServices
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, Dr CP
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9E
EMDR is the most highly studied therapy next to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); however, the success rate and efficacy of EMDR is much higher than CBT.
Jennifer approaches therapy from a trauma-informed perspective because problems often stem from early experiences that influence present emotions, behaviors, and experiences. Anxiety, depression, relational issues, eating disorders, and emotional struggles, are examples of trauma that originate somewhere in our history. Trauma is not necessarily reserved for those who experienced accidents, first-responders, or recipients or witnesses of violent acts; trauma is often a result of receiving negative information about ourselves early on from caregivers or others in our environment.
EMDR is the most highly studied therapy next to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); however, the success rate and efficacy of EMDR is much higher than CBT.
Jennifer approaches therapy from a trauma-informed perspective because problems often stem from early experiences that influence present emotions, behaviors, and experiences. Anxiety, depression, relational issues, eating disorders, and emotional struggles, are examples of trauma that originate somewhere in our history. Trauma is not necessarily reserved for those who experienced accidents, first-responders, or recipients or witnesses of violent acts; trauma is often a result of receiving negative information about ourselves early on from caregivers or others in our environment.
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Photo of Joelene Heathcote - Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC, Counsellor
Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor
Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
It's important to me that I help clients identify the power within themselves to overcome loss, family of origins trauma and neglect, and negative thought and behavior patterns so they can begin the process of healing.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
It's important to me that I help clients identify the power within themselves to overcome loss, family of origins trauma and neglect, and negative thought and behavior patterns so they can begin the process of healing.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
(672) 202-3647 View (672) 202-3647
Photo of Jonathan Watters, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jonathan Watters
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
*Accepting new clients* Hi there, my name is Jonathan. Helping people work on the challenges they want to work on so that they can become a better version of themselves is my work. By using an integrative approach, I support people by helping them discover and explore practical solutions for their life circumstances and their relationships. What works best for you is what is important, not following a set of instructions or trying to fit you into a prescribed way of life. Counselling is about working together to improve well-being and focusing our efforts to do so, so let's work together.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
*Accepting new clients* Hi there, my name is Jonathan. Helping people work on the challenges they want to work on so that they can become a better version of themselves is my work. By using an integrative approach, I support people by helping them discover and explore practical solutions for their life circumstances and their relationships. What works best for you is what is important, not following a set of instructions or trying to fit you into a prescribed way of life. Counselling is about working together to improve well-being and focusing our efforts to do so, so let's work together.
(778) 745-4039 View (778) 745-4039
Photo of Kim Sholinder, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Kim Sholinder
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I am trained in solution-focused, narrative, response-based, drama therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, mental health crises, and/or suicidal ideation/self-harm, and you're looking for support navigating these challenges, but you're afraid of regular talk therapy or had negative experiences in the past, I can promise you, I take a unique, person centered approach and prioritize client needs and wants from therapy. I want you to feel in charge of your counselling! I work with both adults, and children and youth and can help the family work together to meet you or your child's needs!
I am trained in solution-focused, narrative, response-based, drama therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, mental health crises, and/or suicidal ideation/self-harm, and you're looking for support navigating these challenges, but you're afraid of regular talk therapy or had negative experiences in the past, I can promise you, I take a unique, person centered approach and prioritize client needs and wants from therapy. I want you to feel in charge of your counselling! I work with both adults, and children and youth and can help the family work together to meet you or your child's needs!
(343) 338-3492 View (343) 338-3492
Photo of Debbie Leung, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Debbie Leung
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8Z
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
(877) 594-7727 View (877) 594-7727
Photo of Kristy Ricard, BA, MA, Counsellor
Kristy Ricard
Counsellor, BA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8L
As a registered clinical counsellor, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges of life and achieve their full potential. With a strong background in psychology and a deep understanding of human behavior, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
As a registered clinical counsellor, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges of life and achieve their full potential. With a strong background in psychology and a deep understanding of human behavior, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(236) 326-9550 View (236) 326-9550
Photo of Jennifer Hamer - Retreat Cove Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Retreat Cove Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
I practice from a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective including techniques from both cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
I practice from a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective including techniques from both cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
(604) 337-1342 View (604) 337-1342
Photo of Shaelynn Mellors - Pediatric Power Play, MA, CCLS, Counsellor
Pediatric Power Play
Counsellor, MA, CCLS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
The clients I serve are typically between the ages of 3 and 19. However, I work from a family systems lens, which operates on creating consistency and allowing my clients to include their parents or have separate therapeutic relationships with them. The needs and goals of each client vary between building confidence, emotional regulation, coping strategies, relationships, and so much more. One thing in common for all my clients is allowing them space to explore and navigate to find their identity and support them in accomplishing any change.
(236) 201-5454 View (236) 201-5454
Photo of Kirsten Luise Mueller - Rainstorm Counselling & Consulting, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rainstorm Counselling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
Parenting (or caregiving) is one of the most important jobs you've taken on. But the person you're caring for is going through some tough stuff, and the two of you aren't getting along. You're beating yourself up, because you keep screwing up your job, when all you want to do is help. You might even be coping with your own issues, in addition to helping them with theirs. You're scared of the future, and sometimes angry at the person you are caring for. You're lonely and even burnt out, because others don't understand.
Parenting (or caregiving) is one of the most important jobs you've taken on. But the person you're caring for is going through some tough stuff, and the two of you aren't getting along. You're beating yourself up, because you keep screwing up your job, when all you want to do is help. You might even be coping with your own issues, in addition to helping them with theirs. You're scared of the future, and sometimes angry at the person you are caring for. You're lonely and even burnt out, because others don't understand.
(778) 651-5292 View (778) 651-5292

See more therapy options for Victoria

Behavioural Issues Counsellors

What happens in therapy for behavioural issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behaviour issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioural issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioural therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioural issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioural concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behaviour management, often used when the underlying cause of behaviour issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioural issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behaviour issues?

Studies show that therapy for behaviour issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behaviour later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behaviour. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.