Behavioral Issues Therapists in San Rafael, CA

Photo of Daniel Alterman, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Alterman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
My practice also includes: comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations; diagnosing and designing treatment plans for children with ADHD and behavioral problems; conducting individual and family psychotherapy for children with anxiety and depression; providing counseling and co-parenting advice to divorcing parents; and leading workshops for parents of strong-willed children.
Because childhood and adolescence are such fragile stages of life, treating emotional and behavioral problems quickly and efficiently is essential. I join forces with you to resolve your children’s problems through expert assessment and carefully designed treatment plans. I begin this process by offering you a free personal consultation by phone to discuss your concerns and possible evaluations/interventions.
My practice also includes: comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations; diagnosing and designing treatment plans for children with ADHD and behavioral problems; conducting individual and family psychotherapy for children with anxiety and depression; providing counseling and co-parenting advice to divorcing parents; and leading workshops for parents of strong-willed children.
Because childhood and adolescence are such fragile stages of life, treating emotional and behavioral problems quickly and efficiently is essential. I join forces with you to resolve your children’s problems through expert assessment and carefully designed treatment plans. I begin this process by offering you a free personal consultation by phone to discuss your concerns and possible evaluations/interventions.
(415) 236-3551 View (415) 236-3551
Photo of Kelly Grimes, BCBA, MEd
Kelly Grimes
BCBA, MEd
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Would you benefit from the support of a behavior analyst who will customize a plan based on your individual needs, preferences, and skills? Would you benefit from stronger relationships with family, friends and your community? If so, I can be that support.
Specializing in supporting adults with mental health and behavioral challenges that impact their quality of life. Person centered whole person approach. Trauma informed care. Low demand/PDA specialist. Experience with eating disorders and nutritional psychology. Well versed in community integration and vocational development. Experience with social-sexual behavior and dating.
Would you benefit from the support of a behavior analyst who will customize a plan based on your individual needs, preferences, and skills? Would you benefit from stronger relationships with family, friends and your community? If so, I can be that support.
Specializing in supporting adults with mental health and behavioral challenges that impact their quality of life. Person centered whole person approach. Trauma informed care. Low demand/PDA specialist. Experience with eating disorders and nutritional psychology. Well versed in community integration and vocational development. Experience with social-sexual behavior and dating.
(661) 475-6046 View (661) 475-6046
Photo of Taylor Ross - Early Childhood and Family Wellness Consultant, IPMH, CPE
Early Childhood and Family Wellness Consultant
IPMH, CPE
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Families consult with me to get guidance on a large variety of issues-from behavioral challenges, childhood aggression, situational crisis such as illness, weening, separation anxiety, or sibling concerns. Some parents need help in learning how to talk to their children about particular topics, some are working hard not to bring the ghosts of their own childhood's into the relationship with their children. Many are trying to figure out what behavior is developmentally appropriate, what behavior needs particular attention and how to set effective limits for their children in a way that feels both strong and loving.
Families consult with me to get guidance on a large variety of issues-from behavioral challenges, childhood aggression, situational crisis such as illness, weening, separation anxiety, or sibling concerns. Some parents need help in learning how to talk to their children about particular topics, some are working hard not to bring the ghosts of their own childhood's into the relationship with their children. Many are trying to figure out what behavior is developmentally appropriate, what behavior needs particular attention and how to set effective limits for their children in a way that feels both strong and loving.
(415) 830-3116 View (415) 830-3116
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
(415) 813-1411 View (415) 813-1411
Photo of Marc Rappaport, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marc Rappaport
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Together we will uncover and heal the underlying trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that cause behavioral issues such as substance abuse, disordered eating, anger and aggression, and gaming and social media addictions.
We provide a full continuum of care at locations around the country, including residential treatment centers; a full suite of outpatient programming, with Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient services with a flexible number of days per week; telehealth; and alumni programming. All of our programs have received accreditation from the Joint Commission for Behavioral Healthcare, the nation’s most respected healthcare accreditation body.
Together we will uncover and heal the underlying trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that cause behavioral issues such as substance abuse, disordered eating, anger and aggression, and gaming and social media addictions.
We provide a full continuum of care at locations around the country, including residential treatment centers; a full suite of outpatient programming, with Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient services with a flexible number of days per week; telehealth; and alumni programming. All of our programs have received accreditation from the Joint Commission for Behavioral Healthcare, the nation’s most respected healthcare accreditation body.
(415) 712-1365 View (415) 712-1365
Photo of Meredith Simpson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
Meredith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing therapy for children, teens, and families. With a warm style and strength-based approach, Meredith utilizes evidence-based treatments such as Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and incorporates Play Therapy techniques when working with children, recognizing the importance of creative and fun expressive modalities to facilitate healing and growth.
Meredith is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing therapy for children, teens, and families. With a warm style and strength-based approach, Meredith utilizes evidence-based treatments such as Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and incorporates Play Therapy techniques when working with children, recognizing the importance of creative and fun expressive modalities to facilitate healing and growth.
(415) 324-6955 x1 View (415) 324-6955 x1
Photo of Ashley Brady, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Life can throw unexpected challenges at every phase of development. The teen years can feel downright tumultuous and confusing. Early adulthood can come with intense identity confusion and anxiety. I specialize in these populations and their needs in my practice. My goal is to help teenagers and young adults better manage stress, regulate emotions, and achieve more peace in daily life. I offer a safe environment where we can dive into your behavioral patterns and learn new ways to take care of yourself. No matter how difficult things may feel, we can problem-solve together. This can give you the empowerment you need to move forward.
Life can throw unexpected challenges at every phase of development. The teen years can feel downright tumultuous and confusing. Early adulthood can come with intense identity confusion and anxiety. I specialize in these populations and their needs in my practice. My goal is to help teenagers and young adults better manage stress, regulate emotions, and achieve more peace in daily life. I offer a safe environment where we can dive into your behavioral patterns and learn new ways to take care of yourself. No matter how difficult things may feel, we can problem-solve together. This can give you the empowerment you need to move forward.
(415) 873-3901 View (415) 873-3901
Photo of Paula F Mierzejewski, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula F Mierzejewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
With adults I look at patterns of behavior and thinking that prevent living life fully.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who came to practice later in life and believe my life's experience makes me a better therapist. I enjoy working with children and older adults facing life transitions. I treat children who suffer from anxiety and depression and those that are victims of abuse, abandonment, and homelessness. I support Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming Clients. Iwork with adults facing a life transition. This may be caring for an older parent, loss of a loved one, or a life threatening illness. These situations trigger a mixed bag of emotions that can be overwhelming.
With adults I look at patterns of behavior and thinking that prevent living life fully.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who came to practice later in life and believe my life's experience makes me a better therapist. I enjoy working with children and older adults facing life transitions. I treat children who suffer from anxiety and depression and those that are victims of abuse, abandonment, and homelessness. I support Transgender & Gender Non-Conforming Clients. Iwork with adults facing a life transition. This may be caring for an older parent, loss of a loved one, or a life threatening illness. These situations trigger a mixed bag of emotions that can be overwhelming.
(628) 333-3593 View (628) 333-3593
Photo of Melissa Tervet-da Cunha, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Tervet-da Cunha
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
Waitlist for new clients
I teach children and their parents, teens, and adults how to live more enjoyable and fulfilling lives released from the grip of anxiety, worry, or depression. I bring my practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy along with my experience as an educator to every session, helping clients learn skills that empower them to experience life in a more fulfilling and satisfying way. I use the most effective research-based treatments for OCD and for uncontrollable hair pulling/skin picking behaviors.
I teach children and their parents, teens, and adults how to live more enjoyable and fulfilling lives released from the grip of anxiety, worry, or depression. I bring my practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy along with my experience as an educator to every session, helping clients learn skills that empower them to experience life in a more fulfilling and satisfying way. I use the most effective research-based treatments for OCD and for uncontrollable hair pulling/skin picking behaviors.
(415) 942-1645 View (415) 942-1645
Photo of Elizabeth T Clark, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth T Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
I have extensive training in trauma- and solution-focused, narrative, cognitive- behavioral and family systems therapy.
At some point in our lives, we all encounter an obstacle--professionally and/or personally--that feels insurmountable. Either we have set ourselves on a trajectory that is not congruous with our core values, or we have lost the steam to persevere. My psychotherapy services will help determined individuals to practice their skills of insight and problem-solving to overcome even the most harrowing obstacles. Whether you are seeking the income that supports your family, or overcoming infidelity in your relationship--your life will undoubtedly improve when you collaborate with someone who is invested in your success.
I have extensive training in trauma- and solution-focused, narrative, cognitive- behavioral and family systems therapy.
At some point in our lives, we all encounter an obstacle--professionally and/or personally--that feels insurmountable. Either we have set ourselves on a trajectory that is not congruous with our core values, or we have lost the steam to persevere. My psychotherapy services will help determined individuals to practice their skills of insight and problem-solving to overcome even the most harrowing obstacles. Whether you are seeking the income that supports your family, or overcoming infidelity in your relationship--your life will undoubtedly improve when you collaborate with someone who is invested in your success.
(707) 241-4963 View (707) 241-4963
Photo of Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
(415) 360-1273 View (415) 360-1273
Photo of Jeannie Brown, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Jeannie Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT Skills (Mindfulness/Buddhist and CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy an attachment based couples therapy.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
I also use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT Skills (Mindfulness/Buddhist and CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy an attachment based couples therapy.
Welcome to my in private practice (virtual and in person). Do you feel distressed and need more support? Many seek therapy to end or alleviate often life long or long term painful symptoms or patterns. They may be too complex to address on your own but be very treatable. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive place. I work collaboratively to help develop awareness and skills and through therapeutic modalities. This is to improve or eliminate distressing symptoms or problems and assist you in reaching your full potential. Education: UC Berkeley-BA in Psychology and a Doctorate from California School of Professional Psychology.
(415) 692-6331 View (415) 692-6331
Photo of Win Morgan - Win Bottum-Morgan, Ph.D., PhD, QME, Psychologist
Win Bottum-Morgan, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
For over 30 years I have been helping people make significant changes in how they relate to themselves and others, and in how they respond to emotional and behavioral difficulties.
THERAPY IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR FUTURE SELF... The person that is most dependent on you is your future self. We don't often think of ourselves in this way, but the decisions we make as we move through our lives affect everything that comes after. This is why it is crucial that we treat ourselves with the same kindness and generosity we would show to anyone we dearly love. Often, our decisions are informed by old patterns of which we are not aware, and which were formed when we were quite young and lacked capacity for perspective or reflection.
For over 30 years I have been helping people make significant changes in how they relate to themselves and others, and in how they respond to emotional and behavioral difficulties.
THERAPY IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR FUTURE SELF... The person that is most dependent on you is your future self. We don't often think of ourselves in this way, but the decisions we make as we move through our lives affect everything that comes after. This is why it is crucial that we treat ourselves with the same kindness and generosity we would show to anyone we dearly love. Often, our decisions are informed by old patterns of which we are not aware, and which were formed when we were quite young and lacked capacity for perspective or reflection.
(415) 799-8072 View (415) 799-8072
Photo of Colin Maslan, MA, ASW
Colin Maslan
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, ASW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
My interventions are rooted in providing psychoeducation and honoring client self-determination, helping clients to better understand their experiences. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions to assist children, youth, and young adults in recognizing the interconnectedness between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which enables them to develop and implement personalized coping strategies to reduce anxiety and depression. I have also received training in mindfulness-based interventions aimed at assisting clients in using breathwork and meditation to reduce their stress.
My interventions are rooted in providing psychoeducation and honoring client self-determination, helping clients to better understand their experiences. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions to assist children, youth, and young adults in recognizing the interconnectedness between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which enables them to develop and implement personalized coping strategies to reduce anxiety and depression. I have also received training in mindfulness-based interventions aimed at assisting clients in using breathwork and meditation to reduce their stress.
(415) 985-8916 x1 View (415) 985-8916 x1
Photo of Barbara Jean Gosselin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Jean Gosselin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I offer treatment to Individuals,Teens and Families with issues ranging from anger, behavioral management and depression, to trauma and grief.
Choosing to see a therapist is about you wanting to make some changes in yourself or in your life. The most important job I have as your therapist is to provide you with a non-judgmental space to explore your issues, your feelings and to help you find a solution that will ultimately make you feel better.
I offer treatment to Individuals,Teens and Families with issues ranging from anger, behavioral management and depression, to trauma and grief.
Choosing to see a therapist is about you wanting to make some changes in yourself or in your life. The most important job I have as your therapist is to provide you with a non-judgmental space to explore your issues, your feelings and to help you find a solution that will ultimately make you feel better.
(415) 985-1759 View (415) 985-1759
Photo of Dina Schweitzer Leitch, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dina Schweitzer Leitch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents, and provide parent consultation services to parents whose child struggles with learning differences, behavioral issues, or who are medically challenged.
Do you feel lonely, anxious or sad? If you are looking for a therapist, you are taking the first step towards feeling better. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 20 years and provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults and families in Marin. I tailor my approach to your individual specific needs and concerns so that you can feel empowered to make positive changes in your relationships and in your life. I utilize complementary psychotherapy approaches and give constructive feedback to help my clients attain their goals in a safe and supportive environment.
I provide individual therapy to adults and adolescents, and provide parent consultation services to parents whose child struggles with learning differences, behavioral issues, or who are medically challenged.
Do you feel lonely, anxious or sad? If you are looking for a therapist, you are taking the first step towards feeling better. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 20 years and provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults and families in Marin. I tailor my approach to your individual specific needs and concerns so that you can feel empowered to make positive changes in your relationships and in your life. I utilize complementary psychotherapy approaches and give constructive feedback to help my clients attain their goals in a safe and supportive environment.
(415) 723-4828 View (415) 723-4828
Photo of David J Kest, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David J Kest
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Waitlist for new clients
However, some clients want to work 1:1 for personal growth and for them I offer "Integrated Psychotherapy" that blends somatics/mind-body awareness, cognative- behavioral skills, psychodynamic insight and spiritual awakening (whenever appropriate).
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
However, some clients want to work 1:1 for personal growth and for them I offer "Integrated Psychotherapy" that blends somatics/mind-body awareness, cognative- behavioral skills, psychodynamic insight and spiritual awakening (whenever appropriate).
I offer an "Integrated Approach to Psychotherapy" for adults, couples and families. We may first seek to reduce negative symptoms and increase stability in our life, but eventually I support and challenge my clients to graduate from "surviving to truly "thriving" in all major aspects of their life. Relationships have shaped and influenced who we are and many clients appreciate help with essential relationship skills. I am one of the few therapists in Marin and SF actually certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and have had the honor to assist the cofounders many times with their weekend workshops. on the West Coast.
(650) 924-9677 View (650) 924-9677
Photo of Latrice Bradley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latrice Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Hi, I'm Latrice Bradley a licensed clinician in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma using some Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but mostly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) techniques to help my clients to have a better quality of life. I work with adult clients who may be struggling with various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress/life transition concerns, matters of race relations, those with criminal justice interaction, challenges with parenting, and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Latrice Bradley a licensed clinician in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma using some Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but mostly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) techniques to help my clients to have a better quality of life. I work with adult clients who may be struggling with various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress/life transition concerns, matters of race relations, those with criminal justice interaction, challenges with parenting, and relationship issues.
(415) 891-6191 View (415) 891-6191
Photo of Briana Aitkenhead, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Aitkenhead
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I enjoy working with adolescents and children using a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Social Thinking Curriculum.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have been working in the Bay Area for 10 years now as a psychotherapist. I have experience working with adolescents, couples and children. I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship that can transform a persons perspective. I utilize many different therapeutic approaches such as DBT and emotion focused therapy.
I enjoy working with adolescents and children using a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Social Thinking Curriculum.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have been working in the Bay Area for 10 years now as a psychotherapist. I have experience working with adolescents, couples and children. I believe that therapy is a collaborative relationship that can transform a persons perspective. I utilize many different therapeutic approaches such as DBT and emotion focused therapy.
(415) 687-4433 View (415) 687-4433
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
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.