Photo of Patricia Gaffney Ament, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Gaffney Ament
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hemet, CA 92544
Reaching out to get help can feel awkward and embarrassing. It takes courage to be open and willing to explore and process personal challenges and commitment to work towards being the best version of yourself you can be. I offer a safe and confidential space to walk together on your journey of exploration and growth. We will work together to identify your therapy goals, issues or challenges that may be creating barriers to success and tailor therapy to your individual needs. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing.
Reaching out to get help can feel awkward and embarrassing. It takes courage to be open and willing to explore and process personal challenges and commitment to work towards being the best version of yourself you can be. I offer a safe and confidential space to walk together on your journey of exploration and growth. We will work together to identify your therapy goals, issues or challenges that may be creating barriers to success and tailor therapy to your individual needs. I provide a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment to help you explore the challenges you are facing.
(951) 944-1630 View (951) 944-1630

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jian Tan, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jian Tan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Jacinto, CA 92583
I am able to work with a variety of clients, helping them decrease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, substance use disorder, spouse/partner relationship problem/distress, parent-child relationship problem/distress, personality disorders, etc.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
I am able to work with a variety of clients, helping them decrease symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, grief, substance use disorder, spouse/partner relationship problem/distress, parent-child relationship problem/distress, personality disorders, etc.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
(951) 904-2469 View (951) 904-2469
Photo of Aine M Bergin - Mighty Oak Community Counseling Center, Psy, D, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mighty Oak Community Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, Psy, D, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92552
EVERY PERSON: We believe that every person is a wonderfully complex creature that is created to function cognitively, physically and spiritually.
EVERY PERSON: We believe that every person is a wonderfully complex creature that is created to function cognitively, physically and spiritually.
(951) 666-5784 View (951) 666-5784
Photo of Cassondra Rose - Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc., LCSW, PsyD, AMFT, ACSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, AMFT, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Jacinto, CA 92583
Here at Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc. we work with individuals dealing with everyday life stressors, individuals discovering their sense of identity, and with various discomforts such as depression, anxiety, relational, and family issues. Let us help improve the community one relationship at a time. We are inclusive and serve a variety of cultures, religions and communities. Each therapist approach is to meet the client where they are at in an open, non-judgmental, quality environment.
Here at Renewing Hope Family Counseling Center, Inc. we work with individuals dealing with everyday life stressors, individuals discovering their sense of identity, and with various discomforts such as depression, anxiety, relational, and family issues. Let us help improve the community one relationship at a time. We are inclusive and serve a variety of cultures, religions and communities. Each therapist approach is to meet the client where they are at in an open, non-judgmental, quality environment.
(951) 356-9932 View (951) 356-9932

Online Therapists

Photo of Diana Methfessel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Methfessel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corona, CA 92879
I am able to counsel in areas of anxiety/stress; depression/grief, work challenges; parent-child conflict; transitions in life; alcohol/substance recovery support for someone struggling and support for family members; LGBTQ+ exploration, and family support.
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
I am able to counsel in areas of anxiety/stress; depression/grief, work challenges; parent-child conflict; transitions in life; alcohol/substance recovery support for someone struggling and support for family members; LGBTQ+ exploration, and family support.
My name is Diana Methfessel, a Licensed Marriage Family (LMFT) based in Walnut Creek and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and life-stage transitions. Of the thirty-six years as a clinician, I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Based Therapy beneficial. For trauma-based concerns, I use Cognitive Processing Therapy, The Flash Technique, and psychodynamic methods.
(951) 363-1146 View (951) 363-1146
Photo of Linda J Hayes - Linda Hayes, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Hayes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Encino, CA. My primary focus is on individuals, couples, and children coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and the impact of separation or divorce. I've worked as a mediator, evaluator and expert witness for the Los Angeles Superior Court for 16 years. I have years of experience helping individuals and families going through crises. I also provide Coparenting counseling, reunification therapy, marriage and divorce counseling. I specialize in working with adolescents, empty nest issues and coping with a loved one who lives with a psychiatric disorder.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Encino, CA. My primary focus is on individuals, couples, and children coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and the impact of separation or divorce. I've worked as a mediator, evaluator and expert witness for the Los Angeles Superior Court for 16 years. I have years of experience helping individuals and families going through crises. I also provide Coparenting counseling, reunification therapy, marriage and divorce counseling. I specialize in working with adolescents, empty nest issues and coping with a loved one who lives with a psychiatric disorder.
(818) 918-2305 View (818) 918-2305
Photo of Melissa Morales, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Most of my experience has been working with clients who suffer from depression and/or anxiety, parent-child relationships, individuals experiencing loss, grief & trauma to extreme presentations of psychosis, severe depression & suicidal ideation.
Hi, my name is Melissa Morales. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California. I have over 20 years of experience providing crisis intervention, counseling, and case management services in the hospital, Emergency Department & outpatient clinic behavioral health setting. I have extensive experience working with individuals, children & families in crisis and who have experienced trauma, loss and grief, and who regularly cope with a large variety of behavioral health needs.
Most of my experience has been working with clients who suffer from depression and/or anxiety, parent-child relationships, individuals experiencing loss, grief & trauma to extreme presentations of psychosis, severe depression & suicidal ideation.
Hi, my name is Melissa Morales. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, California. I have over 20 years of experience providing crisis intervention, counseling, and case management services in the hospital, Emergency Department & outpatient clinic behavioral health setting. I have extensive experience working with individuals, children & families in crisis and who have experienced trauma, loss and grief, and who regularly cope with a large variety of behavioral health needs.
(530) 451-3723 View (530) 451-3723
Photo of Ixchel Tellez Fonseca - Serenity Journey LLC, PsyD, LMFT, CATC-IV, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serenity Journey LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CATC-IV, CCTP
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92808  (Online Only)
Fonseca provides Individual, teen, family, substance abuse, and PCIT psychotherapy.
Dr. Ixchel Tellez Fonseca is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over eleven years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have endured trauma who are adjusting to life stressors such as relational issues, family changes, life transitions, bullying, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, school, and work stressors. Additionally, she has worked with adults struggling with mood disorders and dual diagnoses through various treatment modalities. She strives to provide services that focus on each individual’s natural resilience and believes that positive change is possible.
Fonseca provides Individual, teen, family, substance abuse, and PCIT psychotherapy.
Dr. Ixchel Tellez Fonseca is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over eleven years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have endured trauma who are adjusting to life stressors such as relational issues, family changes, life transitions, bullying, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, school, and work stressors. Additionally, she has worked with adults struggling with mood disorders and dual diagnoses through various treatment modalities. She strives to provide services that focus on each individual’s natural resilience and believes that positive change is possible.
(714) 844-5015 View (714) 844-5015
Photo of Susan Watkins - Susan Watkins MFT, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Watkins MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Murrieta, CA 92563
I collaborate with clients in coping with interpersonal, family conflict, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions.
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change and transition; when personal issues affect their work or relationships. Families are under a great deal of stress in today's world, more so today, than ever. Recognizing the need for additional support is a sign of strength and courage. Finding the right therapist, one that listens to your concerns, understands your challenges, and genuinely connects with you, can be difficult. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive environment, in which clients can develop coping strategies, problem solving skills, and confidence.
I collaborate with clients in coping with interpersonal, family conflict, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety and panic disorders, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions.
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change and transition; when personal issues affect their work or relationships. Families are under a great deal of stress in today's world, more so today, than ever. Recognizing the need for additional support is a sign of strength and courage. Finding the right therapist, one that listens to your concerns, understands your challenges, and genuinely connects with you, can be difficult. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive environment, in which clients can develop coping strategies, problem solving skills, and confidence.
(951) 309-2669 View (951) 309-2669
Photo of Jeanette Abney, MA, LMFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanette Abney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92058  (Online Only)
I am the owner of two out patient counseling centers providing services to adults, teen and children. Services include mental health, individual, family, couples counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse, SAP Assessments, addictive behaviors, domestic violence, anger management, parenting, co-parenting, marital, pre-marital counseling and other court or probation approved services. I have knowledge of Military Culture. I conduct groups, workshops, educational training and family interventions. I provide services in Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Murrieta and Oceanside, CA. I also provide telehealth services.
I am the owner of two out patient counseling centers providing services to adults, teen and children. Services include mental health, individual, family, couples counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse, SAP Assessments, addictive behaviors, domestic violence, anger management, parenting, co-parenting, marital, pre-marital counseling and other court or probation approved services. I have knowledge of Military Culture. I conduct groups, workshops, educational training and family interventions. I provide services in Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Murrieta and Oceanside, CA. I also provide telehealth services.
(760) 354-8559 View (760) 354-8559
Photo of Kesia Carter - Love Thyself Social Services Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Love Thyself Social Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
(310) 929-6176 View (310) 929-6176
Photo of Sophia Kubes, ASW, MSW
Sophia Kubes
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a journey of self discovery, healing, building relationships, and so much more. I am here to support you on whatever journey you are on.During sessions I create a safe space where you can feel supported and be able to be yourself. I believe that we all have strengths within us that can be used to help find balance in our lives. I will help you find coping skills that work for you and encourage new forms of self care. At the start of my career I earned a Bachelors degree in child development and family life education, and a Masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in mental health.
Therapy can be a journey of self discovery, healing, building relationships, and so much more. I am here to support you on whatever journey you are on.During sessions I create a safe space where you can feel supported and be able to be yourself. I believe that we all have strengths within us that can be used to help find balance in our lives. I will help you find coping skills that work for you and encourage new forms of self care. At the start of my career I earned a Bachelors degree in child development and family life education, and a Masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in mental health.
(657) 571-2215 View (657) 571-2215
Photo of Amy Amelia Hardwick, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Amelia Hardwick
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valley Center, CA 92082  (Online Only)
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
(714) 702-5933 View (714) 702-5933
Photo of Elena Gonzalez - Healista Holistic Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healista Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
At Healista, we believe everyone has the power within themselves to make a change in their lives. They just sometimes need a little help along the way. And that’s where we come in. We help our clients connect to their inner safety by nurturing their intuitive skills to cope with challenges, stressors, and traumas to feel more at ease and resilient in their daily lives. We believe in the power of slowing down and focusing on the whole picture of one’s socioemotional well being to regain embodied ease, overcome feelings of shame and loneliness, and find clarity on how to move forward.
(310) 499-2640 View (310) 499-2640
Photo of Christopher Schell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Schell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
(619) 943-1332 View (619) 943-1332
Photo of Lisa Mehrannia, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lisa Mehrannia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Welcome to my page! I’m Lisa Mehrannia, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping teenagers and adults navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, and finding meaning and purpose in life. I believe in creating a collaborative and comfortable environment where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to truly understand what you're experiencing and to support you in reaching your personal goals.
Welcome to my page! I’m Lisa Mehrannia, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping teenagers and adults navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, and finding meaning and purpose in life. I believe in creating a collaborative and comfortable environment where you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to truly understand what you're experiencing and to support you in reaching your personal goals.
(310) 943-1033 View (310) 943-1033
Photo of Nahid S Ghajar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nahid S Ghajar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Life could be thought of as a journey with many challenges, twists, turns, and peak experiences. Therapy is a personal investment we make in our self It can be a part of our life journey where we get to know and understand our self and others, and find the true meaning and purpose of our life. It can afford a person an opportunity to outgrow insecurities, discover his or her strength and become the best person you can possibly be. Therapy is for everyone a place to learn and grow.
Life could be thought of as a journey with many challenges, twists, turns, and peak experiences. Therapy is a personal investment we make in our self It can be a part of our life journey where we get to know and understand our self and others, and find the true meaning and purpose of our life. It can afford a person an opportunity to outgrow insecurities, discover his or her strength and become the best person you can possibly be. Therapy is for everyone a place to learn and grow.
(949) 799-4029 View (949) 799-4029
Photo of Nanette Sebourn - Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She believes the best way to experience therapy is FACE to FACE, in person. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She believes the best way to experience therapy is FACE to FACE, in person. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
(951) 291-0563 View (951) 291-0563
Photo of Dianna Velasquez Luna - Dianna V. Luna, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianna V. Luna
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Has your child been acting out, uncommunicative, or withdrawn lately? Has their emotional well-being been affected by changes in their life? You are not alone. I have a deep passion for helping children find their voice, rather than acting out or withdrawing. For over 30 years I have worked with children of all ages as well as families and adults. As a therapist, I find it most rewarding when I help my clients breakthrough and grow from their trauma. I specialize in child therapy along with anxiety, depression, ADHD in all ages. Together we can achieve your goals at The Effective Therapy Group.
Has your child been acting out, uncommunicative, or withdrawn lately? Has their emotional well-being been affected by changes in their life? You are not alone. I have a deep passion for helping children find their voice, rather than acting out or withdrawing. For over 30 years I have worked with children of all ages as well as families and adults. As a therapist, I find it most rewarding when I help my clients breakthrough and grow from their trauma. I specialize in child therapy along with anxiety, depression, ADHD in all ages. Together we can achieve your goals at The Effective Therapy Group.
(310) 388-9813 View (310) 388-9813
Photo of Melody Anderson, LCSW, EMDR-II, TRM-II, BSP, NAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melody Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-II, TRM-II, BSP, NAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
For over 25 years, I have eased the suffering of those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, couple, family, work & social relational conflict, impulse control, addictions, spiritual searches, grief & loss, life transitions & career change. I work with individuals, couples & families in West Los Angeles & New York City. I am licensed in CA & NY & Certified in EMDR-II, BrainSpotting-Phase 4 , Trauma Resiliency Training Level 2 and Neuro-Affective Touch. I offer & premarital counseling & wedding services, with a specialty in 12-Step Weddings.. I do not take insurance.
For over 25 years, I have eased the suffering of those facing anxiety, depression, trauma, couple, family, work & social relational conflict, impulse control, addictions, spiritual searches, grief & loss, life transitions & career change. I work with individuals, couples & families in West Los Angeles & New York City. I am licensed in CA & NY & Certified in EMDR-II, BrainSpotting-Phase 4 , Trauma Resiliency Training Level 2 and Neuro-Affective Touch. I offer & premarital counseling & wedding services, with a specialty in 12-Step Weddings.. I do not take insurance.
(310) 627-2345 View (310) 627-2345
Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapists

Does parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) work?

PCIT is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to be effective across domains, including for children with behavioral problems, those on the autism spectrum, and those who have experienced early childhood trauma. Further, studies have found that the skills developed through PCIT benefit not only the child in therapy but also siblings, as the parent internalizes lessons learned in sessions and is able to incorporate them into interactions with other family members.

How long does PCIT last?

The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and treatment lasts, on average, between 12 and 20 sessions. Factors that influence treatment duration include how regularly a client attends treatment, how much progress is achieved between sessions, the particular skills that need development, and the extent to which the parent and therapist see improvement.

Can PCIT be done online?

PCIT is among the therapy types best suited for video sessions. Therapists are able to communicate with parents with essentially the same ease, and by observing the parent and child at home in their normal environment, the therapist may gain additional insight into their interactions, as the child will have their normal toys and may feel more comfortable and act more naturally than they would in a therapist’s room.

Does PCIT help parents?

In addition to the skills parents develop through the treatment, PCIT has also been shown to reduce frustration, stress, and depression in parents and promote confidence and a sense of calm when dealing with their children. The desired outcomes of PCIT include a reduction in defiant and aggressive behavior by children and an improvement in communicating their feelings productively, complying with parental instruction, and behaving according to parents’ rules. Growth in these areas can be a relief for parents.