Behavioral Issues Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA

Photo of Nader Siahdohoni - VCAT Mental Health and Detox Center, PhD, Psychologist
VCAT Mental Health and Detox Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
At VCATTRC we provide neurocognitive and brain based treatment methodologies for substance abuse and psychological disorders. We believe that there is a strong correlation between a healthy brain and a person’s mental, behavioral, and cognitive functioning. Mental behavioral disorders such as anxiety, depression, and addiction, have been linked to serious behavioral and cognitive dysfunctions in adults with long history of addictive behavior. Thus, treating such disorders and related co-occurring disorders is in need of a proper and specialized multidimensional assessment, evaluation, and neurocognitive treatment plan.
At VCATTRC we provide neurocognitive and brain based treatment methodologies for substance abuse and psychological disorders. We believe that there is a strong correlation between a healthy brain and a person’s mental, behavioral, and cognitive functioning. Mental behavioral disorders such as anxiety, depression, and addiction, have been linked to serious behavioral and cognitive dysfunctions in adults with long history of addictive behavior. Thus, treating such disorders and related co-occurring disorders is in need of a proper and specialized multidimensional assessment, evaluation, and neurocognitive treatment plan.
(949) 577-7442 View (949) 577-7442
Photo of Selena Rose Emond, PhD, BCBA-D
Selena Rose Emond
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
If you are having parenting challenges, behavior issues, a child with Autism or other developmental delays please contact me. I can help. We provide one on one services to children, parent training, school shadows, teacher in service talks. Our goal is to help your family go from good to great!
If you are having parenting challenges, behavior issues, a child with Autism or other developmental delays please contact me. I can help. We provide one on one services to children, parent training, school shadows, teacher in service talks. Our goal is to help your family go from good to great!
(714) 975-5821 View (714) 975-5821
Photo of Kenneth Woog, PsyD, Psychologist
Kenneth Woog
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92675
If you or a loved one is struggling with computer/video gaming/internet or other behavioral addictions let us help. While we can't reclaim the years lost to computer and other media excesses, we help clients bring their life back in balance. We work together in treatment to restore valued relationships, educational and career direction and to improve overall health and wellbeing. The Computer Addiction Treatment Program of Southern California includes outpatient, 3 day weekend intensive residential treatment and parent support groups. An initial 30 minute phone consultation is available for $75.
If you or a loved one is struggling with computer/video gaming/internet or other behavioral addictions let us help. While we can't reclaim the years lost to computer and other media excesses, we help clients bring their life back in balance. We work together in treatment to restore valued relationships, educational and career direction and to improve overall health and wellbeing. The Computer Addiction Treatment Program of Southern California includes outpatient, 3 day weekend intensive residential treatment and parent support groups. An initial 30 minute phone consultation is available for $75.
(949) 342-4821 View (949) 342-4821
Photo of Danielle Dawson - Discover Counseling Center, Inc., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Discover Counseling Center, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
I utilize an eclectic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Educational Therapy.
At Discover Counseling Center, we believe emotional and relational healing is a multi-step process. Our goal is to help individuals, couples and children find healing through self discovery, to find healthy ways to express thoughts and feelings, and to learn how to communicate to gain understanding and compromise. We not only guide our clients though this emotional exploration, but will also provide tools to help achieve measurable improvements in your life. Cristine MacDuffee-Rainer works with Children/Teens/Young Adults and Danielle works with Adults.
I utilize an eclectic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Educational Therapy.
At Discover Counseling Center, we believe emotional and relational healing is a multi-step process. Our goal is to help individuals, couples and children find healing through self discovery, to find healthy ways to express thoughts and feelings, and to learn how to communicate to gain understanding and compromise. We not only guide our clients though this emotional exploration, but will also provide tools to help achieve measurable improvements in your life. Cristine MacDuffee-Rainer works with Children/Teens/Young Adults and Danielle works with Adults.
(714) 909-2528 View (714) 909-2528
Photo of Paul Depompo - PCIT Institute of Southern California, Psychologist
PCIT Institute of Southern California
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92675
By giving equal attention to the parent-child relationship and to parents' behavior management skills, The PCIT Institute of SoCal enhances parent-child interactions, improves children's behavior, and empowers parents to use consistent, predictable, effective parenting strategies that work.
Is your child controlling your household with their demands, tantrums and power struggles? Are you feeling exhausted, out of control and defeated? Are you embarrassed in public and afraid that people see your child's behavior as your failure? Are you tired of fighting, struggling, and trying so hard, but getting nowhere?
By giving equal attention to the parent-child relationship and to parents' behavior management skills, The PCIT Institute of SoCal enhances parent-child interactions, improves children's behavior, and empowers parents to use consistent, predictable, effective parenting strategies that work.
Is your child controlling your household with their demands, tantrums and power struggles? Are you feeling exhausted, out of control and defeated? Are you embarrassed in public and afraid that people see your child's behavior as your failure? Are you tired of fighting, struggling, and trying so hard, but getting nowhere?
(949) 482-4367 View (949) 482-4367
Photo of Lewis Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lewis Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
During the therapeutic journey I use common modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, DBT, and trauma-based interventions.
Hello, my name is Lewis Thompson and I am a Licensed Marraige and Family Therapist and Licensed professional Clinicial Counselor. I find joy supporting and empowering those that are searching for healing and solutions to current struggles in daily life. I approash therapy with the attitude that the client is the expert in their own lives, strive to build trust and respect in the therapeutic relationship, and embrace a non-judgmental and empathetic atmosphere. This leads to a collaborative effort where treatment goals are identified and prioritized
During the therapeutic journey I use common modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, DBT, and trauma-based interventions.
Hello, my name is Lewis Thompson and I am a Licensed Marraige and Family Therapist and Licensed professional Clinicial Counselor. I find joy supporting and empowering those that are searching for healing and solutions to current struggles in daily life. I approash therapy with the attitude that the client is the expert in their own lives, strive to build trust and respect in the therapeutic relationship, and embrace a non-judgmental and empathetic atmosphere. This leads to a collaborative effort where treatment goals are identified and prioritized
(949) 776-5980 View (949) 776-5980
Photo of Debbi Orr, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbi Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Are your children having difficulties at home or school? Problems with friends? Outbursts? You don't need to continue the struggle! I am a Registered Play Therapist who utilizes play therapy techniques to help children work through behavior issues and trauma. I have a passion for helping families re-establish and maintain equilibrium for a peaceful home environment.
Are your children having difficulties at home or school? Problems with friends? Outbursts? You don't need to continue the struggle! I am a Registered Play Therapist who utilizes play therapy techniques to help children work through behavior issues and trauma. I have a passion for helping families re-establish and maintain equilibrium for a peaceful home environment.
(949) 536-9546 View (949) 536-9546
Photo of Christine Lewis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I hold certifications in Adoption Permanency Curriculum, Adoption Clinical Training, Pathways to Permanence (parenting curriculum for kids w/trauma), Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, Safe Sound Protocol, and Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and a Certified EMDR consultant.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
I hold certifications in Adoption Permanency Curriculum, Adoption Clinical Training, Pathways to Permanence (parenting curriculum for kids w/trauma), Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, Safe Sound Protocol, and Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and a Certified EMDR consultant.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
(949) 536-9832 View (949) 536-9832
Photo of Dr. Roxanne Cherry, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Roxanne Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
(949) 776-5354 View (949) 776-5354
Photo of Laura E Adams, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura E Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to address long-term problems and patterns. It is through this kind of personal exploration that a deeper understanding can be attained and the sense-of-self can be strengthened. A psychodynamic approach can go below the surface to address problems, improve personal relationships, and stop self-destructive behavior. So often, past experiences can interfere with our present lives and we find ourselves suffering through repeated ongoing pain.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to address long-term problems and patterns. It is through this kind of personal exploration that a deeper understanding can be attained and the sense-of-self can be strengthened. A psychodynamic approach can go below the surface to address problems, improve personal relationships, and stop self-destructive behavior. So often, past experiences can interfere with our present lives and we find ourselves suffering through repeated ongoing pain.
(949) 391-1499 View (949) 391-1499
Photo of Dr. Tara Bormand, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Tara Bormand
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
By creating a safe space, I help my clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and triggers in the therapeutic process. Through an experiential lens, I help people explore their negative thinking patterns, unmet emotional needs, and behavioral responses to stressors. My style is directive, yet collaborative in inspiring people to create their new stories. The goal of our journey in therapy is to help you feel more connected and secure in your identity and build meaningful relationships with others.
By creating a safe space, I help my clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and triggers in the therapeutic process. Through an experiential lens, I help people explore their negative thinking patterns, unmet emotional needs, and behavioral responses to stressors. My style is directive, yet collaborative in inspiring people to create their new stories. The goal of our journey in therapy is to help you feel more connected and secure in your identity and build meaningful relationships with others.
(714) 464-7984 View (714) 464-7984
Photo of Ruqayyah Kian - Kian Mental Health, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kian Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
We can help you navigate these relationships, develop healthier thinking patterns about yourself, and make behavioral changes that will positively impact your quality of life.
We understand that anxiety, depression and stress are at an all time high. We want to make therapy more accessible to those in need so we offer telehealth video sessions, through a secure site. We specialize in treating individuals and couples struggling with stress, relational issues, and anxiety. We place an emphasis on providing culturally competent and informed care.
We can help you navigate these relationships, develop healthier thinking patterns about yourself, and make behavioral changes that will positively impact your quality of life.
We understand that anxiety, depression and stress are at an all time high. We want to make therapy more accessible to those in need so we offer telehealth video sessions, through a secure site. We specialize in treating individuals and couples struggling with stress, relational issues, and anxiety. We place an emphasis on providing culturally competent and informed care.
(424) 321-6482 View (424) 321-6482
Photo of Miriam Erdosi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Erdosi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships in their thoughts, feelings and relationships.
My approach to therapy is client centered and focused based practice. Empathy and personal growth are the approaches I take, creating a safe space for each and every client. Utilizing a strength-based and solution focused intervention, I utilize a variety of treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that move them towards their goals.
Using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships in their thoughts, feelings and relationships.
My approach to therapy is client centered and focused based practice. Empathy and personal growth are the approaches I take, creating a safe space for each and every client. Utilizing a strength-based and solution focused intervention, I utilize a variety of treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that move them towards their goals.
(949) 998-4920 View (949) 998-4920
Photo of Kristin Kay Guenther, MA, LMFT, RDAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Kay Guenther
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDAT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
My approach to treatment is using modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
You are not alone! I know sometimes it can feel that way and I am here to say I would be honored to support you in your journey of emotional freedom. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals for a more fulfilling and balanced life. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we will work to identify patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to your challenges, and we will develop personalized strategies to promote lasting change and growth.
My approach to treatment is using modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
You are not alone! I know sometimes it can feel that way and I am here to say I would be honored to support you in your journey of emotional freedom. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals for a more fulfilling and balanced life. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we will work to identify patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to your challenges, and we will develop personalized strategies to promote lasting change and growth.
(949) 647-4850 View (949) 647-4850
Photo of Dr. Evan Fewsmith, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Evan Fewsmith
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I am a specialist in both Chemical Dependency and Behavioral Addictions.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
I am a specialist in both Chemical Dependency and Behavioral Addictions.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
(949) 249-9040 View (949) 249-9040
Photo of Dorina Stern, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorina Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
(949) 514-8852 View (949) 514-8852
Photo of Olivia Dahlin, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Olivia Dahlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692  (Online Only)
Are you concerned about your child/teen? Is their behavior related to mental health or are the changes you are observing a normal part of development? You may be noticing behaviors such as withdrawal, sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed. Or they may be anxious, overwhelmed, moody, fearful or having difficulty focusing in school. It can be hard to start the conversation with your child/teen or get them to open up? As a parent it can be overwhelming to watch kids struggle and not know how to intervene or offer support. You don't have to do it alone.
Are you concerned about your child/teen? Is their behavior related to mental health or are the changes you are observing a normal part of development? You may be noticing behaviors such as withdrawal, sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed. Or they may be anxious, overwhelmed, moody, fearful or having difficulty focusing in school. It can be hard to start the conversation with your child/teen or get them to open up? As a parent it can be overwhelming to watch kids struggle and not know how to intervene or offer support. You don't have to do it alone.
(949) 694-3451 View (949) 694-3451
Photo of Shauna Ornellas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shauna Ornellas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Shauna maintains a collaborative and supportive approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, DBT, EMDR, ABFT and Solution Focused perspectives.
Shauna Ornellas is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual and family therapy. Shauna brings over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, self esteem, ADHD, defiance, trauma and substance abuse. You can find support and relief in a non-judgmental caring environment.
Shauna maintains a collaborative and supportive approach utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, DBT, EMDR, ABFT and Solution Focused perspectives.
Shauna Ornellas is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual and family therapy. Shauna brings over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, self esteem, ADHD, defiance, trauma and substance abuse. You can find support and relief in a non-judgmental caring environment.
(949) 537-2887 View (949) 537-2887
Photo of Susan Aziz, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Aziz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I integrate evidence-based behavioral therapy approaches, and in addition, I draw upon psychodynamic techniques, recognizing the value of delving into our past experiences to fortify our journey toward a more resilient and promising future.
Hi, my name is Susan Aziz! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about connecting with individuals to support them in identifying and achieving their goals. I work primarily with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety disorders. This includes generalized anxiety disorders, postpartum anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and more. At the core of my methodology lies a person-centered approach. I am deeply committed to cultivating a robust therapeutic alliance founded on empathy and unwavering support.
I integrate evidence-based behavioral therapy approaches, and in addition, I draw upon psychodynamic techniques, recognizing the value of delving into our past experiences to fortify our journey toward a more resilient and promising future.
Hi, my name is Susan Aziz! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about connecting with individuals to support them in identifying and achieving their goals. I work primarily with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety disorders. This includes generalized anxiety disorders, postpartum anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, and more. At the core of my methodology lies a person-centered approach. I am deeply committed to cultivating a robust therapeutic alliance founded on empathy and unwavering support.
(949) 881-6313 View (949) 881-6313
Photo of Liza Abby Gant, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza Abby Gant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
If you are seeking personal healing, restored relationships, and practical tools for growth I would love the opportunity to be part of your journey. By developing an authentic, collaborative relationship with you, I want to help you break free from the bonds of the past to live life to the fullest in the present and reach your fullest potential in the future. I primarily work from the lens of attachment theory, EMDR and cognitive behavioral in a systems base. Additionally, my work with you can be built up on a Biblical foundation to strengthen who you are in Christ.
If you are seeking personal healing, restored relationships, and practical tools for growth I would love the opportunity to be part of your journey. By developing an authentic, collaborative relationship with you, I want to help you break free from the bonds of the past to live life to the fullest in the present and reach your fullest potential in the future. I primarily work from the lens of attachment theory, EMDR and cognitive behavioral in a systems base. Additionally, my work with you can be built up on a Biblical foundation to strengthen who you are in Christ.
(949) 478-0383 View (949) 478-0383

See more therapy options for Mission Viejo

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.