What can a parent-child interaction therapist help with?
A
Parent-child interaction therapist can help the parents or caregivers of children with behavioural problems, developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, or language challenges to communicate better, both verbally and physically, with these children. A therapist will teach clients new skills and techniques to reduce the number and severity of tantrums or aggressive behaviour and increase feelings of self-esteem and attachment with the parent.
How does parent-child interaction therapy work?
PCIT is a combination of
play therapy and
behavioural therapy designed for use with children ages 2 to 7 and their parents. During PCIT sessions, parents will play with their child while the therapist observes from another room through a one-way mirror. Through an earphone, the therapist offers training and advice to the parent in real-time, coaching the parent on skills such as communication, mirroring and praising the child’s good behaviour, and helping the parent decide which bad behaviours to overlook or ignore.
Who is certified to practice parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT)?
PCIT International is the accrediting body for parent-child interaction therapy. To achieve certification, a therapist must complete advanced training in the technique and have a master’s degree. PCIT therapists are likely to be psychologists, social workers, or counsellors, and can be found in private practice or institutional mental health facilities.How do I recognise a good parent-child interaction therapist?
Since there is an extensive course of training to become an accredited parent-child interaction therapist, clients can feel confident that even someone without decades of experience will have a good knowledge of this approach. A good parent-child interaction therapist will have a deep understanding of family structures, child development, and communication skills. Since this is someone with whom clients will work on deeply personal challenges, it’s best to find someone with whom clients are able to build a trusting relationship.