Behavioral Issues Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Marcia Garceau, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcia Garceau
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome general anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias, depression, relationship problems, other self-sabotaging behavior, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
(858) 281-2734 View (858) 281-2734
Photo of Jeffrey Andrew Gordon - Behavioral Health Consultant, MS, ACSW, Admin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Behavioral Health Consultant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ACSW, Admin
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
As a behavioral life coach, I help you identify issues, problem-solve your needs, and recognize solutions for desired change.
Remember that the change starts with you! Being aware of past issues may lead to unwanted emotions or behaviors that can affect your present life. Instead of letting these past issues affect your self-esteem, try to improve them and see them as "Hero" badges. By taking the time to explore these issues and seeking guidance, you can have more control over your emotions and behaviors. I'm here to support your mind, body, and spirit, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
As a behavioral life coach, I help you identify issues, problem-solve your needs, and recognize solutions for desired change.
Remember that the change starts with you! Being aware of past issues may lead to unwanted emotions or behaviors that can affect your present life. Instead of letting these past issues affect your self-esteem, try to improve them and see them as "Hero" badges. By taking the time to explore these issues and seeking guidance, you can have more control over your emotions and behaviors. I'm here to support your mind, body, and spirit, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
(619) 279-5643 View (619) 279-5643
Photo of Charles Warter - Protected Roots Integrative Treatment Center (PRI)
Protected Roots Integrative Treatment Center (PRI)
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Our programs are structured for patients with mood disorders, behavioral problems, executive dysfunction, suicidality, or substance use.
Protected Roots Integrative (PRI) Treatment Center is a Joint Commission-accredited and DHCS-certified mental health facility in San Diego. PRI supports adolescents, young adults, and their families in achieving sustained mental health recovery and wellness by integrating academic medicine with community values. Our all-gender facility offers in-person and virtual intensive outpatient (IOP) and outpatient (OP) treatment services. While we offer programs for young adults ages 18-35, PRI’s primary focus is working with adolescents aged 12-17 who have struggled with behavioral and emotional concerns throughout their adolescence.
Our programs are structured for patients with mood disorders, behavioral problems, executive dysfunction, suicidality, or substance use.
Protected Roots Integrative (PRI) Treatment Center is a Joint Commission-accredited and DHCS-certified mental health facility in San Diego. PRI supports adolescents, young adults, and their families in achieving sustained mental health recovery and wellness by integrating academic medicine with community values. Our all-gender facility offers in-person and virtual intensive outpatient (IOP) and outpatient (OP) treatment services. While we offer programs for young adults ages 18-35, PRI’s primary focus is working with adolescents aged 12-17 who have struggled with behavioral and emotional concerns throughout their adolescence.
(858) 758-7750 View (858) 758-7750
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(858) 221-9423 View (858) 221-9423
Photo of Kaivalya Kerr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaivalya Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Thank you for reaching out and trusting me in the first step of your healing journey. This may not be easy at times, but we will take this journey together. I like to utilize a strength-based approach in therapy while incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Post-Modern/Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation and Mindfulness techniques, etc. I also like to focus on both insight building and skill building, helping clients be co-participants in their treatment. Life is ever changing. Circumstances arise, stressors emerge, relationships are tested, and we are asked to adapt, cope and push forward.
Thank you for reaching out and trusting me in the first step of your healing journey. This may not be easy at times, but we will take this journey together. I like to utilize a strength-based approach in therapy while incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Post-Modern/Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation and Mindfulness techniques, etc. I also like to focus on both insight building and skill building, helping clients be co-participants in their treatment. Life is ever changing. Circumstances arise, stressors emerge, relationships are tested, and we are asked to adapt, cope and push forward.
(858) 923-4425 View (858) 923-4425
Photo of Sabrina Parr, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sabrina Parr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have specialized training in couples, parenting/co-parenting and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which additional support and help are needed. I offer a supportive, open and trusting environment to facilitate desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have been working with in the field since 1994 and have enjoyed watching people make positive life changes. I look forward to the opportunity of supporting you!
I have specialized training in couples, parenting/co-parenting and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which additional support and help are needed. I offer a supportive, open and trusting environment to facilitate desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have been working with in the field since 1994 and have enjoyed watching people make positive life changes. I look forward to the opportunity of supporting you!
(858) 386-7832 View (858) 386-7832
Photo of Tawnya Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tawnya Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hi there, I'm Tawnya! I'm an LCSW versed in in culturally competent work with clients who have experienced trauma/challenges related to gender and race, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and family issues. My approach include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength base therapies, and the utilization of culturally competent practices that take into consideration issues related to gender, class, ethnicity, and race. I consider it an honor to be able to assist clients as they move forward in exploring obstacles that may be negatively impacting their contentment and happiness.
Hi there, I'm Tawnya! I'm an LCSW versed in in culturally competent work with clients who have experienced trauma/challenges related to gender and race, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and family issues. My approach include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength base therapies, and the utilization of culturally competent practices that take into consideration issues related to gender, class, ethnicity, and race. I consider it an honor to be able to assist clients as they move forward in exploring obstacles that may be negatively impacting their contentment and happiness.
(858) 544-3906 View (858) 544-3906
Photo of James L Shenk - Cognitive Therapy Institute, APC, PhD, Psychologist
Cognitive Therapy Institute, APC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
We specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), proven effective in overcoming panic, anxiety, depression.
We realize the importance of developing a supportive therapy relationship based in trust, mutual respect, and clear understanding of your unique background, values,and needs. At the Cognitive Therapy Institute, we work with you to identify goals and to develop a plan for reaching your goals in a sensible and effective way. Often our clients experience increased confidence and success in a relatively short time, largely because we offer clear guidance and techniques using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Treatments. You learn skills and strategies to resolve current difficulties and to enjoy a good quality of life in the years ahead.
We specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), proven effective in overcoming panic, anxiety, depression.
We realize the importance of developing a supportive therapy relationship based in trust, mutual respect, and clear understanding of your unique background, values,and needs. At the Cognitive Therapy Institute, we work with you to identify goals and to develop a plan for reaching your goals in a sensible and effective way. Often our clients experience increased confidence and success in a relatively short time, largely because we offer clear guidance and techniques using the latest Cognitive Behavioral Treatments. You learn skills and strategies to resolve current difficulties and to enjoy a good quality of life in the years ahead.
(858) 201-6524 View (858) 201-6524
Photo of Kellie Delli Colli, PhD, BCN, RYT, Psychologist
Kellie Delli Colli
Psychologist, PhD, BCN, RYT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Collaborative CBT empowers you to identify and modify negative thinking and behavioral patterns.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
Collaborative CBT empowers you to identify and modify negative thinking and behavioral patterns.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
(619) 598-0813 View (619) 598-0813
Photo of Lauren Feiner, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Feiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I was trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at Stanford University and have incorporated other approaches to meet the needs of the individual client.
Welcome! And congratulations on taking the first step toward feeling better. It is not uncommon for people to feel scared about setting up a counseling appointment. My nonjudgmental and supportive style can create a safe atmosphere. My focus is on a strength-based approach, empowering clients to utilize their unique strengths to overcome challenges. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
I was trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at Stanford University and have incorporated other approaches to meet the needs of the individual client.
Welcome! And congratulations on taking the first step toward feeling better. It is not uncommon for people to feel scared about setting up a counseling appointment. My nonjudgmental and supportive style can create a safe atmosphere. My focus is on a strength-based approach, empowering clients to utilize their unique strengths to overcome challenges. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
(858) 225-8330 View (858) 225-8330
Photo of Jeannine Ray, LCP, Psychologist
Jeannine Ray
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
Hello- my name is Jeannine Ray. I have 18 years of experience working with individuals and families as a family therapist and behavior analyst. I completed my Ph.D. and hold a doctorate in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine and am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and hold a license as an Independent Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio and as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
(858) 723-0583 View (858) 723-0583
Photo of Liza Boyer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Boyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Success in therapy comes from an awareness that one is ready to change, followed by the desire to find help to do so. I have the ability to create a safe, confidential environment for you, where we can explore the issues that may be causing you distress. I can help you identify the ways of coping that may not be working for you, and learn more helpful patterns of thinking and behavior. We will focus on confidence, self-esteem and lasting skills to attain a wider range of self-expression and satisfaction with your life and relationships.
Success in therapy comes from an awareness that one is ready to change, followed by the desire to find help to do so. I have the ability to create a safe, confidential environment for you, where we can explore the issues that may be causing you distress. I can help you identify the ways of coping that may not be working for you, and learn more helpful patterns of thinking and behavior. We will focus on confidence, self-esteem and lasting skills to attain a wider range of self-expression and satisfaction with your life and relationships.
(858) 367-5737 View (858) 367-5737
Photo of Julia Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families, and have specialized, evidence-based training in depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, and behavioral issues.
Are you living a life you love, or are you stuck in the familiar “one step forward, two steps back” dance? Life can be colorfully painful, beautifully complicated, and completely overwhelming—and none of us were given a how-to guide. We all experience complicated twists and unexpected turns that cause sadness, worry, anger, and destructive patterns with food, drugs, alcohol, and within our closest relationships. Our lives are too short to lose precious time to unhappiness, feeling hopeless, and being stuck in the same vicious cycles. Therapy can give you a personalized roadmap to help you design a life you love.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families, and have specialized, evidence-based training in depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, and behavioral issues.
Are you living a life you love, or are you stuck in the familiar “one step forward, two steps back” dance? Life can be colorfully painful, beautifully complicated, and completely overwhelming—and none of us were given a how-to guide. We all experience complicated twists and unexpected turns that cause sadness, worry, anger, and destructive patterns with food, drugs, alcohol, and within our closest relationships. Our lives are too short to lose precious time to unhappiness, feeling hopeless, and being stuck in the same vicious cycles. Therapy can give you a personalized roadmap to help you design a life you love.
(858) 585-9638 View (858) 585-9638
Photo of Julia Rosengren, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia Rosengren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
(858) 609-8405 View (858) 609-8405
Photo of Jaime Carrillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused techniques we can identify those sources of negative behaviors/thoughts and work together to develop solutions that will assist in becoming a happier you.
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
Utilizing a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused techniques we can identify those sources of negative behaviors/thoughts and work together to develop solutions that will assist in becoming a happier you.
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
(424) 378-5481 View (424) 378-5481
Photo of Dr. Claire Arene-Ikedi - Good News Counseling Services Corp, MSW, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Good News Counseling Services Corp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I can help if you are currently having problems adjusting to a crisis event such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, or a significant life change. Other areas of specialty include, working with children with adjustment and anxiety disorders. Therapeutic interventions are delivered in a motivational non-judgmental style using Cognitive Behavioral techniques. My patients are encouraged to learn healthy coping skills that can easily be replicated and become a part of their daily lives. The practice offers daytime, evening, night, and weekend hours.
I can help if you are currently having problems adjusting to a crisis event such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, or a significant life change. Other areas of specialty include, working with children with adjustment and anxiety disorders. Therapeutic interventions are delivered in a motivational non-judgmental style using Cognitive Behavioral techniques. My patients are encouraged to learn healthy coping skills that can easily be replicated and become a part of their daily lives. The practice offers daytime, evening, night, and weekend hours.
(224) 252-8642 View (224) 252-8642
Photo of Elham Sajed-Connor, PsyD, Psychologist
Elham Sajed-Connor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I practice in an integrative and flexible manner employing both dynamic and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I am a well-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience treating clients of all ages with various issues. I believe that people are capable to change and improve the quality of their lives. I view my role as a catalyst for transformation, and I am committed to provide excellent service in an empathic, supportive, non-judgmental, safe, and collaborative treatment environment of mutual trust and respect. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment wherein we explore any issue in depth, and address the challenges you face in order to help you more fully enjoy life and relationships.
I practice in an integrative and flexible manner employing both dynamic and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I am a well-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience treating clients of all ages with various issues. I believe that people are capable to change and improve the quality of their lives. I view my role as a catalyst for transformation, and I am committed to provide excellent service in an empathic, supportive, non-judgmental, safe, and collaborative treatment environment of mutual trust and respect. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment wherein we explore any issue in depth, and address the challenges you face in order to help you more fully enjoy life and relationships.
(619) 332-5346 View (619) 332-5346
Photo of Athena Taj - UpThink Personal Solutions, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
UpThink Personal Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92039
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because it is clinically proven to be most effective in treating mental health issues.
Working two decades as a therapist, clinical supervisor and business owner, I've developed expertise in marriage, family, individual and child counseling, conflict resolution, anger management, personal development, men's and women's issues. I have 25 years of experience in theater, art and improvisation. This background enables me to incorporate creativity into therapeutic settings. Living in different countries and traveling extensively, I've gained knowledge of different cultures. Experience in business, psychology, the arts and cultural diversity gives me a unique, multi-dimensional perspective for effecting therapeutic change.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because it is clinically proven to be most effective in treating mental health issues.
Working two decades as a therapist, clinical supervisor and business owner, I've developed expertise in marriage, family, individual and child counseling, conflict resolution, anger management, personal development, men's and women's issues. I have 25 years of experience in theater, art and improvisation. This background enables me to incorporate creativity into therapeutic settings. Living in different countries and traveling extensively, I've gained knowledge of different cultures. Experience in business, psychology, the arts and cultural diversity gives me a unique, multi-dimensional perspective for effecting therapeutic change.
(619) 492-3737 View (619) 492-3737
Photo of Melissa Lanza, PhD, LPCC, Psychologist
Melissa Lanza
Psychologist, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I focus on solutions, encouraging my clients to challenge their distorted thinking and change negative patterns of behavior.
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
I focus on solutions, encouraging my clients to challenge their distorted thinking and change negative patterns of behavior.
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
(858) 414-3523 View (858) 414-3523
Photo of Charles E Nelson, PhD, MFT, Psychologist
Charles E Nelson
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Charlie is recognized as a seasoned, direct, warm, ethical, "practical" therapist with experience since 1973. He's licensed as both Psychologist & Marriage and Family Therapist, competently helping individuals, couples, and families. Along with a broad general practice, he also specializes in: Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health); Substance Abuse and Behavioral addictions (alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, codependence, ACOA, enabling, gambling, "sex addiction", out of control sexual behavior); Trauma Recovery (crime victims, post traumatic stress, loss, death, dying, grief, identity theft); Men's Issues: ("Men behaving badly", fatherhood, communication problems, intimacy concerns).
Charlie is recognized as a seasoned, direct, warm, ethical, "practical" therapist with experience since 1973. He's licensed as both Psychologist & Marriage and Family Therapist, competently helping individuals, couples, and families. Along with a broad general practice, he also specializes in: Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health); Substance Abuse and Behavioral addictions (alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, codependence, ACOA, enabling, gambling, "sex addiction", out of control sexual behavior); Trauma Recovery (crime victims, post traumatic stress, loss, death, dying, grief, identity theft); Men's Issues: ("Men behaving badly", fatherhood, communication problems, intimacy concerns).
(858) 376-7957 View (858) 376-7957
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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.