Behavioral Issues Therapists in Mesa, AZ

Kelly Marley-Smith, LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
I have over 16 years of counseling experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. These include, private practice, critical response teams, at-risk adolescent group homes, residential treatment centers, state prison, and behavioral schools. Specialties include: trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, job related difficulties/career related issues, life transitions and employee assistance.
I have over 16 years of counseling experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. These include, private practice, critical response teams, at-risk adolescent group homes, residential treatment centers, state prison, and behavioral schools. Specialties include: trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, job related difficulties/career related issues, life transitions and employee assistance.
(480) 526-4334 View (480) 526-4334
Photo of Jacqui Lauko (Johnson), MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqui Lauko (Johnson)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85203
Unique animal-assisted psychotherapy ($140-245) age 5-50. Specializing in anxiety, ADHD & Autism through fun therapies. I use several experiential techniques including equine-assisted therapy, yoga, somatic experiencing, hypnosis, art therapy, Bemer therapy, sensory therapy & dog-assisted therapy along with IFS-informed equine parts work. I focus on holistic healing to promote a faster process. I have been working with children & adults with behavioral health needs since 2010. I am dedicated to going above & beyond for my clients including attending school meetings and determining the best route of treatment for the client & family.
Unique animal-assisted psychotherapy ($140-245) age 5-50. Specializing in anxiety, ADHD & Autism through fun therapies. I use several experiential techniques including equine-assisted therapy, yoga, somatic experiencing, hypnosis, art therapy, Bemer therapy, sensory therapy & dog-assisted therapy along with IFS-informed equine parts work. I focus on holistic healing to promote a faster process. I have been working with children & adults with behavioral health needs since 2010. I am dedicated to going above & beyond for my clients including attending school meetings and determining the best route of treatment for the client & family.
(480) 376-7767 View (480) 376-7767
Photo of Total Life Counseling - Total Life Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor
Total Life Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85212
Sessions as low as $70! As an Arizona Licensed Outpatient Treatment Center, we are committed to providing the best therapy and helping services possible. Total Life Counseling offers up-to-date mental health and substance abuse treatments that promote meaningful change and spiritual growth for our clients. Services available at Total Life: Child, Adolescent and Adult services, Individual, Couples and Family Therapy; Mental Health (MH) Intensive Outpatient Programs, Chemical Dependency (CD) Intensive Outpatient Programs, Dialectical Behavior Groups (DBT), Support and Educational Groups.
Sessions as low as $70! As an Arizona Licensed Outpatient Treatment Center, we are committed to providing the best therapy and helping services possible. Total Life Counseling offers up-to-date mental health and substance abuse treatments that promote meaningful change and spiritual growth for our clients. Services available at Total Life: Child, Adolescent and Adult services, Individual, Couples and Family Therapy; Mental Health (MH) Intensive Outpatient Programs, Chemical Dependency (CD) Intensive Outpatient Programs, Dialectical Behavior Groups (DBT), Support and Educational Groups.
(480) 590-7147 View (480) 590-7147
Photo of Jodee Arnold, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodee Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85209  (Online Only)
I believe a person is not defined by a diagnosis, behavior, interpersonal conflict, or psychological trauma. However, I understand the influence they can have on our lives. As Dr. Gabor Mate states, "What we call the personality is often a jumble of genuine traits and adopted coping styles that do not reflect our true self at all but the loss of it." Through compassionate inquiry, I strive to assist individuals in understanding how our emotional well-being and social connectivity are intimately intertwined with addictions, health, and disease.
I believe a person is not defined by a diagnosis, behavior, interpersonal conflict, or psychological trauma. However, I understand the influence they can have on our lives. As Dr. Gabor Mate states, "What we call the personality is often a jumble of genuine traits and adopted coping styles that do not reflect our true self at all but the loss of it." Through compassionate inquiry, I strive to assist individuals in understanding how our emotional well-being and social connectivity are intimately intertwined with addictions, health, and disease.
(520) 525-1714 View (520) 525-1714
Photo of Monique Mort, MCC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique Mort
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85202  (Online Only)
Therapy modalities I draw from are: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy.
Hello, I'm Monique Mort (She/Her), and I'm a licensed therapist who is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all individuals. My focus is on helping people who are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, racial trauma, family/relational problems, and ethical non-monogamy. I provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing therapy for over 15 years.
Therapy modalities I draw from are: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy.
Hello, I'm Monique Mort (She/Her), and I'm a licensed therapist who is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all individuals. My focus is on helping people who are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, racial trauma, family/relational problems, and ethical non-monogamy. I provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing therapy for over 15 years.
(602) 536-8961 View (602) 536-8961
Photo of Cassandra Greene, MA, LAC, Counselor
Cassandra Greene
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
I also work with teens and adults of all ages using a strengths based approach utilizing interventions such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and EMDR.
I am passionate about helping kids, teens, and adults thrive. Life is full of ups and downs, and having a safe place to talk (or play!) through the challenges you are facing is a game changer. I strive to create a space where my clients feel seen and supported and where they can begin to find the beauty and strength within themselves and their stories even amidst pain and struggle.
I also work with teens and adults of all ages using a strengths based approach utilizing interventions such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and EMDR.
I am passionate about helping kids, teens, and adults thrive. Life is full of ups and downs, and having a safe place to talk (or play!) through the challenges you are facing is a game changer. I strive to create a space where my clients feel seen and supported and where they can begin to find the beauty and strength within themselves and their stories even amidst pain and struggle.
(480) 637-5673 View (480) 637-5673
Photo of Warren Bodine, MC, LAC, Counselor
Warren Bodine
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85201
Little is more amazing, complex, and sometimes unsettling, than human thought, emotion, and behavior. This interest, coupled with a love of working with people in a direct and meaningful way, is why I work as a counselor. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ottawa University and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Phoenix. My training background and approach to therapy is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Little is more amazing, complex, and sometimes unsettling, than human thought, emotion, and behavior. This interest, coupled with a love of working with people in a direct and meaningful way, is why I work as a counselor. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ottawa University and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Phoenix. My training background and approach to therapy is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(480) 771-1396 View (480) 771-1396
Photo of Trasi Freeman, MPsych, MC, CSC, CCTS-I, Coach, Pre-Licensed Professional
Trasi Freeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPsych, MC, CSC, CCTS-I, Coach
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
I am well versed in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Specialist, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Neuroplasticity.
No one can fix you because you are not broken! Unhealthy choices and patterns steming from learned behaviors can make us feel stuck. We decide how we will respond or react to life's circumstances. I believe in heroes/heroines because I look at her in the mirror daily. Like most, I've been victimized, but I've never been a victim. I chose and continue to choose not to Be.
I am well versed in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Specialist, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Neuroplasticity.
No one can fix you because you are not broken! Unhealthy choices and patterns steming from learned behaviors can make us feel stuck. We decide how we will respond or react to life's circumstances. I believe in heroes/heroines because I look at her in the mirror daily. Like most, I've been victimized, but I've never been a victim. I chose and continue to choose not to Be.
(520) 582-9982 View (520) 582-9982
Photo of Delilah Montoya, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Delilah Montoya
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Looking for a safe place to explore your inner healing, manage life stressors, and improve your mental health? With almost 10 years of experience I have worked with various groups and individuals from the criminal justice system to the mental health field. I am here to offer my support through ongoing challenges of past generational trauma, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. You do not have to face this process alone. I will utilize my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered and holistic approaches to help you achieve your goals.
Looking for a safe place to explore your inner healing, manage life stressors, and improve your mental health? With almost 10 years of experience I have worked with various groups and individuals from the criminal justice system to the mental health field. I am here to offer my support through ongoing challenges of past generational trauma, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. You do not have to face this process alone. I will utilize my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered and holistic approaches to help you achieve your goals.
(480) 725-6056 View (480) 725-6056
Photo of Dr. Cindy Arenas Nieves - SEEK Arizona, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
SEEK Arizona
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
Nicki is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), equipping her with specialized skills to help clients overcome trauma and develop effective coping strategies.
Nicole ‘Nicki’ Kaplan, LCSW, is a highly experienced and dedicated licensed clinical social worker with 18 years of professional practice. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and bioethics from American Jewish University and a master's degree in social work from Arizona State University. Nicki is also an AZBBHE-approved clinical supervisor, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her supervisory role.
Nicki is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), equipping her with specialized skills to help clients overcome trauma and develop effective coping strategies.
Nicole ‘Nicki’ Kaplan, LCSW, is a highly experienced and dedicated licensed clinical social worker with 18 years of professional practice. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and bioethics from American Jewish University and a master's degree in social work from Arizona State University. Nicki is also an AZBBHE-approved clinical supervisor, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her supervisory role.
(928) 585-6608 View (928) 585-6608
Photo of Angela Douglas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
Angela Douglas, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. She received her Masters Degree from Arizona State University. She believes in change! She provides a supportive, confidential and calming environment in which she works together with her clients towards their goals. Angela's clinical approach focuses on strengths and solutions, using cognitive-behavioral, family systems and sandplay therapy.
Angela Douglas, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. She received her Masters Degree from Arizona State University. She believes in change! She provides a supportive, confidential and calming environment in which she works together with her clients towards their goals. Angela's clinical approach focuses on strengths and solutions, using cognitive-behavioral, family systems and sandplay therapy.
(480) 207-3283 View (480) 207-3283
Photo of Kate Abravaya, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Kate Abravaya
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include gender-affirming care, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Rogerian/person-centered therapy and exposure and response prevention (ERP).
Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Mesa, AZ. I work primarily with teens and young adults, many of whom are in the LGBTQ+ community, seeking treatment for OCD, facing life transitions, and/or navigating relationship challenges. My goal in working with clients is to promote their emotional wellbeing, provide a supportive, accepting space where they can explore and gain insight into thoughts and feelings, and give them tools to help them manage their mental health.
My specialties include gender-affirming care, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Rogerian/person-centered therapy and exposure and response prevention (ERP).
Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Mesa, AZ. I work primarily with teens and young adults, many of whom are in the LGBTQ+ community, seeking treatment for OCD, facing life transitions, and/or navigating relationship challenges. My goal in working with clients is to promote their emotional wellbeing, provide a supportive, accepting space where they can explore and gain insight into thoughts and feelings, and give them tools to help them manage their mental health.
(928) 227-8705 View (928) 227-8705
Photo of Karen Pitico, MA  MSW, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Pitico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA MSW, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85213
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
(480) 405-5216 View (480) 405-5216
Photo of Maryam Goudarzi, LMFT, Neuro, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maryam Goudarzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Neuro
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
With over a decade of clinical experience, I've delved into Clinical Psychology with extensive training in neuropsychology. As a proud member of the American Psychological Association (APA), I bring a diverse skill set with various modalities. My work spans individuals, couples, and families, cultivating strong therapeutic relationships. By attentively listening and understanding, I tailor approaches to meet clients' needs, helping them identify and achieve their goals. Through multiple interventions, clients gain awareness, recognizing thought, emotional, and behavioral patterns. Empowering clients to explore new ways of thinking..
With over a decade of clinical experience, I've delved into Clinical Psychology with extensive training in neuropsychology. As a proud member of the American Psychological Association (APA), I bring a diverse skill set with various modalities. My work spans individuals, couples, and families, cultivating strong therapeutic relationships. By attentively listening and understanding, I tailor approaches to meet clients' needs, helping them identify and achieve their goals. Through multiple interventions, clients gain awareness, recognizing thought, emotional, and behavioral patterns. Empowering clients to explore new ways of thinking..
(480) 788-7254 View (480) 788-7254
Photo of Kirra Crump, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirra Crump
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
I am primarily a trauma-based therapist and utilize EMDR, Attachment-based work, Play therapy, Trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and commitment therapy, and Sand tray therapy.
I believe the purpose of therapy is to empower individuals to recognize that they are enough and they already have the tools within themselves to thrive. I strive to meet you where you are at and provide a safe, validating, and welcoming place to explore and process your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It is my desire to both sit with you in the lows and celebrate with you at the highs and make space for the breadth and depth of those feelings.
I am primarily a trauma-based therapist and utilize EMDR, Attachment-based work, Play therapy, Trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and commitment therapy, and Sand tray therapy.
I believe the purpose of therapy is to empower individuals to recognize that they are enough and they already have the tools within themselves to thrive. I strive to meet you where you are at and provide a safe, validating, and welcoming place to explore and process your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It is my desire to both sit with you in the lows and celebrate with you at the highs and make space for the breadth and depth of those feelings.
(928) 249-8561 x1020 View (928) 249-8561 x1020
Photo of Trasi Freeman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Trasi Freeman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
My certifications include: Trauma Specialist, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Neuroplasticity.
I cannot fix you, because you are not broken! Sometimes when we are repeating the same destructive cycles and patterns of unhealthy behaviors, it can feel like a "broken" record, but you're not. You are stuck in a pattern of learned behaviors, which is not conducive to your overall health. I can help you identify those patterns by rewiring the brain and instilling healthier habits. I have worked with the Seriously Mentally Ill to General Mental Health.
My certifications include: Trauma Specialist, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Neuroplasticity.
I cannot fix you, because you are not broken! Sometimes when we are repeating the same destructive cycles and patterns of unhealthy behaviors, it can feel like a "broken" record, but you're not. You are stuck in a pattern of learned behaviors, which is not conducive to your overall health. I can help you identify those patterns by rewiring the brain and instilling healthier habits. I have worked with the Seriously Mentally Ill to General Mental Health.
(480) 531-7057 View (480) 531-7057
Photo of Romano Cedillos, MS, LAC, Counselor
Romano Cedillos
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I'm a Licensed Associate Counselor. I earned a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I counsel individuals and couples. My special focus is pornography and sexual addiction. I use a scientific approach. I am also a therapist living my Catholic faith. I am prepared to speak to your Christian faith if you desire faith-based therapy. I'm also a U.S. Air Force retiree. It is my honor and desire to serve Veterans and First Responders with their mental, emotional, and relationship challenges.
I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I'm a Licensed Associate Counselor. I earned a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I counsel individuals and couples. My special focus is pornography and sexual addiction. I use a scientific approach. I am also a therapist living my Catholic faith. I am prepared to speak to your Christian faith if you desire faith-based therapy. I'm also a U.S. Air Force retiree. It is my honor and desire to serve Veterans and First Responders with their mental, emotional, and relationship challenges.
(480) 690-9690 View (480) 690-9690
Photo of Richard O. Berg, LMSW
Richard O. Berg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I utilize cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and psychotherapy to help manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions interrelated with LGBTQIA+ identities.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. I provide a safe and affirming space to explore feelings related to relationships, mental health challenges, trauma, anxiety and depression, navigating societal challenges, sexual and gender identity. I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping mechanisms and skills, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, and foster an improved sense of health and well-being.
I utilize cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and psychotherapy to help manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions interrelated with LGBTQIA+ identities.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. I provide a safe and affirming space to explore feelings related to relationships, mental health challenges, trauma, anxiety and depression, navigating societal challenges, sexual and gender identity. I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping mechanisms and skills, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, and foster an improved sense of health and well-being.
(602) 805-4100 View (602) 805-4100
Photo of Crystal Bennett, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85202
I'm trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Complex Trauma/Dissociative Disorders.
I offer a gentle approach to building a therapeutic relationship through compassion, patience, and a comfortable, non-judgmental space. I guide my clients toward understanding anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms and navigating through life transitions and trauma processing/healing. I use my experience and trauma-informed techniques, including EMDR to gather an understanding of each client's unique history and therapy goals. Any questions are welcomed and I'm happy to schedule a brief phone call if you'd like to ensure I am a good fit for your therapeutic needs.
I'm trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Complex Trauma/Dissociative Disorders.
I offer a gentle approach to building a therapeutic relationship through compassion, patience, and a comfortable, non-judgmental space. I guide my clients toward understanding anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms and navigating through life transitions and trauma processing/healing. I use my experience and trauma-informed techniques, including EMDR to gather an understanding of each client's unique history and therapy goals. Any questions are welcomed and I'm happy to schedule a brief phone call if you'd like to ensure I am a good fit for your therapeutic needs.
(602) 428-9134 View (602) 428-9134
Photo of Michael Volrich - Arizona Neuropsychology Centers, PsyD, Psychologist
Arizona Neuropsychology Centers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
We approach our clients from a brain-based perspective, as to understand behavior from a neurological basis.
Notice: Dr. Volrich does not currently provide therapeutic services. He is only completing evaluations at this time. I am a licensed psychologist at Arizona Neuropsychology Centers who specializes in neuropsychological, developmental, and psychoeducational evaluations. I’ve developed an extensive knowledge-base for evaluating neurodevelopmental disorders under the previous training of two well known neuropsychologists in the valley, Dr. John Mather and Dr. Paul Beljan. Our practice participates in developing accommodations and modifications needed to aid clients in maximizing their academic, occupational, and social functioning.
We approach our clients from a brain-based perspective, as to understand behavior from a neurological basis.
Notice: Dr. Volrich does not currently provide therapeutic services. He is only completing evaluations at this time. I am a licensed psychologist at Arizona Neuropsychology Centers who specializes in neuropsychological, developmental, and psychoeducational evaluations. I’ve developed an extensive knowledge-base for evaluating neurodevelopmental disorders under the previous training of two well known neuropsychologists in the valley, Dr. John Mather and Dr. Paul Beljan. Our practice participates in developing accommodations and modifications needed to aid clients in maximizing their academic, occupational, and social functioning.
(480) 613-3179 View (480) 613-3179
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Behavioral Issues Therapists

What happens in therapy for behavioral 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 behavior 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 behavioral 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 behavioral 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 behavioral issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioral concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behavior management, often used when the underlying cause of behavior issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioral 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 behavior issues?

Studies show that therapy for behavior issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behavior 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 behavior. 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.