Behavioral Issues Therapists in Santa Ana, CA

Photo of Tran Luu-Yang, PsyD, MA, BCBA, Psychologist
Tran Luu-Yang
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
We specialize in cognitive- behavioral therapy, family systems, stress management, and mindfulness.
At Footprints Behavioral Interventions, what sets us apart from other behavioral health agencies is that we offer comprehensive psychological services including the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disability, developmental problems, mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and neurocognitive impairments. Our psychological services also include individual child and adult psychotherapy, ABA interventions, psychoeducation, parenting groups, and social skills training.
We specialize in cognitive- behavioral therapy, family systems, stress management, and mindfulness.
At Footprints Behavioral Interventions, what sets us apart from other behavioral health agencies is that we offer comprehensive psychological services including the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disability, developmental problems, mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and neurocognitive impairments. Our psychological services also include individual child and adult psychotherapy, ABA interventions, psychoeducation, parenting groups, and social skills training.
(949) 374-5861 View (949) 374-5861
Photo of Jessica Coronel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Coronel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
My approach is client and family centered, focusing on evidence-based therapists, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Jessica Coronel and I am a licensed Marriage and family therapist in practice in Ventura, CA. I offer service via video. I have a working career in the Child welfare system since 2016 and have experience helping children and their families struggling with child abuse and neglect and navigating through the foster care/adoption system. I believe strongly in giving a child a voice and a providing a safe space to express themselves. My great passion is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, and whole and safe.
My approach is client and family centered, focusing on evidence-based therapists, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Jessica Coronel and I am a licensed Marriage and family therapist in practice in Ventura, CA. I offer service via video. I have a working career in the Child welfare system since 2016 and have experience helping children and their families struggling with child abuse and neglect and navigating through the foster care/adoption system. I believe strongly in giving a child a voice and a providing a safe space to express themselves. My great passion is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, and whole and safe.
(949) 669-8798 View (949) 669-8798
Photo of Blended Family Issues Children Teens Adults Carrie Anne Cox, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blended Family Issues Children Teens Adults Carrie Anne Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Have you ever wondered why you do things a certain way or why you struggle with the same things? Do you feel stressed with big changes? Does it feel like others don't understand what you're going through and that your battle will never end? When you don't have the tools to navigate big changes it can leave you feeling tired, frustrated, alone, and overwhelmed. I will help you better understand yourself and long-standing behavior patterns that are keeping you stuck. My role as your therapist is to offer support, guidance, and insight, and help you build the skills needed to navigate and cope with the many changes life throws at you.
Have you ever wondered why you do things a certain way or why you struggle with the same things? Do you feel stressed with big changes? Does it feel like others don't understand what you're going through and that your battle will never end? When you don't have the tools to navigate big changes it can leave you feeling tired, frustrated, alone, and overwhelmed. I will help you better understand yourself and long-standing behavior patterns that are keeping you stuck. My role as your therapist is to offer support, guidance, and insight, and help you build the skills needed to navigate and cope with the many changes life throws at you.
(714) 862-2259 View (714) 862-2259
Photo of Flor Yousefian Tehrani, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Flor Yousefian Tehrani
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I practice a blend of Cognitive Behavioral and Narrative Therapies and I believe in a collaborative process.
Mental health is an important part of our well-being, and yet often times gets pushed aside or ignored because we feel like we can get through it on our own; are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it; or don’t think anyone would understand. Recognizing that you need support and searching for help are the first important steps in your journey to well-being. My intent is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and work toward your goals.
I practice a blend of Cognitive Behavioral and Narrative Therapies and I believe in a collaborative process.
Mental health is an important part of our well-being, and yet often times gets pushed aside or ignored because we feel like we can get through it on our own; are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it; or don’t think anyone would understand. Recognizing that you need support and searching for help are the first important steps in your journey to well-being. My intent is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and work toward your goals.
(714) 947-1072 View (714) 947-1072
Photo of Constanza Del Pilar Mossad - Dr. Constanza Mossad, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Constanza Mossad, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Family involvement in child therapy to learn how to deal with your children's behavior.
I am a bilingual " English/Spanish" Board certified Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples/families. Developing a trusting relationship with the client will allow an open expression of thoughts and feelings. The treatment will be tailored to each individual client's problems and needs. Commitment and consistency are important to obtain good results. Soy psicologa clinica bilingue (Ingles/Espanol) con mas de 15 anos de experiencia. Es importante desarrollar una relacion terapeutica de confianza con mis clients para facilitar la expression de necesidades y emociones. El tratamiento es disenado de acuerdo a las necesidades de cada uno.
Family involvement in child therapy to learn how to deal with your children's behavior.
I am a bilingual " English/Spanish" Board certified Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples/families. Developing a trusting relationship with the client will allow an open expression of thoughts and feelings. The treatment will be tailored to each individual client's problems and needs. Commitment and consistency are important to obtain good results. Soy psicologa clinica bilingue (Ingles/Espanol) con mas de 15 anos de experiencia. Es importante desarrollar una relacion terapeutica de confianza con mis clients para facilitar la expression de necesidades y emociones. El tratamiento es disenado de acuerdo a las necesidades de cada uno.
(949) 860-7316 View (949) 860-7316
Photo of Tammy Boen-Padilla, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tammy Boen-Padilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92706
My name is Tammy Boen-Padilla and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License LMFT 34029). In therapy, I adopt a client-centered and empathetic approach, prioritizing a collaborative relationship aimed at fostering trust and growth. My therapeutic approach emphasizes forward-thinking, focusing on empowering clients with tools and strategies to navigate personal and family issues, depression, anxiety, and adolescent challenges. I integrate cognitive- behavioral techniques with positive psychology and mindfulness to foster resilience and promote lasting change in my clients' lives.
My name is Tammy Boen-Padilla and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (License LMFT 34029). In therapy, I adopt a client-centered and empathetic approach, prioritizing a collaborative relationship aimed at fostering trust and growth. My therapeutic approach emphasizes forward-thinking, focusing on empowering clients with tools and strategies to navigate personal and family issues, depression, anxiety, and adolescent challenges. I integrate cognitive- behavioral techniques with positive psychology and mindfulness to foster resilience and promote lasting change in my clients' lives.
(657) 366-7924 View (657) 366-7924
Photo of Joseph Edward Marquez, PhD, Psychologist
Joseph Edward Marquez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Some of my experience includes treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, behavior and emotional problems, comorbid disorders, among children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have been fortunate enough to help individuals from diverse cultural, sexual, religious, and ethnic backgrounds in their mental health recovery. My training has allowed me to develop a caring and collaborative approach to interventions and has exposed me to some of the most cutting-edge research-informed practices. I truly enjoy bringing the best of people back into their lives regardless of their age, identity, and cultural background.
Some of my experience includes treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, behavior and emotional problems, comorbid disorders, among children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have been fortunate enough to help individuals from diverse cultural, sexual, religious, and ethnic backgrounds in their mental health recovery. My training has allowed me to develop a caring and collaborative approach to interventions and has exposed me to some of the most cutting-edge research-informed practices. I truly enjoy bringing the best of people back into their lives regardless of their age, identity, and cultural background.
(714) 786-3758 View (714) 786-3758
Photo of Joseph Malancharuvil, LCP, Psychologist
Joseph Malancharuvil
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential, psycho-biological, etc.
My name is Joseph Malancharuvil (you may call me Dr. Joseph). I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, licensed in California and Board Certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I served as the Chief of Psychology at one of the largest mental facilities in California. I have treated a large number and variety of patients over the last 30 years both in an inpatient and outpatient setting. In inpatient hospital setting, I specialized in treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential, psycho-biological, etc.
My name is Joseph Malancharuvil (you may call me Dr. Joseph). I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, licensed in California and Board Certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. I served as the Chief of Psychology at one of the largest mental facilities in California. I have treated a large number and variety of patients over the last 30 years both in an inpatient and outpatient setting. In inpatient hospital setting, I specialized in treating severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia.
(657) 571-2849 View (657) 571-2849
Photo of Heather Rink-Rosas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Rink-Rosas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704
I am client-centered and utilize most from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as I assist clients in exploring and expressing thoughts, feelings/emotions, and behaviors in an attempt to identify maladaptive patterns contributing to distress.
Hello there, I'm Heather :) I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I am enthusiastic about the therapeutic process, and I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My theoretical orientation can be described as eclectic, using techniques from various models of therapy as deemed appropriate for the current treatment and client. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I am client-centered and utilize most from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as I assist clients in exploring and expressing thoughts, feelings/emotions, and behaviors in an attempt to identify maladaptive patterns contributing to distress.
Hello there, I'm Heather :) I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I am enthusiastic about the therapeutic process, and I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My theoretical orientation can be described as eclectic, using techniques from various models of therapy as deemed appropriate for the current treatment and client. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(714) 872-8426 View (714) 872-8426
Photo of Farrah Hoekstra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farrah Hoekstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92707
Hi! My name is Farrah. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of the Sacramento region. I've been working in the education system with children and adolescents for 15 years. My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. When working with clients, my approach is founded on understanding, flexibility, and empowerment. I approach each session with deep empathy, acknowledging the unique challenges and emotions that clients face.
Hi! My name is Farrah. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of the Sacramento region. I've been working in the education system with children and adolescents for 15 years. My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. When working with clients, my approach is founded on understanding, flexibility, and empowerment. I approach each session with deep empathy, acknowledging the unique challenges and emotions that clients face.
(949) 779-6810 View (949) 779-6810
Photo of Laura Melendez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92706
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
(657) 837-5009 View (657) 837-5009
Photo of Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Annahita Mahdavi West
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD , AMFT, CATC-V
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705  (Online Only)
I work in a nonprofit agency that offers low-fee/sliding scale therapy. I approach this field of psychotherapy as a sacred space. A space of human connectivity. A space safe and free of judgments and biases. I attempt to provide the utmost empathy and a safe space for my clients to be able to address the issues they need help with. I believe in being solution-focused while addressing the underlying causes of repetitive patterns in order to stop the self-destructive cycles that produce unfavorable results. My goal is to help you to change your behavior to promote positive outcomes towards your mental and emotional wellbeing.
I work in a nonprofit agency that offers low-fee/sliding scale therapy. I approach this field of psychotherapy as a sacred space. A space of human connectivity. A space safe and free of judgments and biases. I attempt to provide the utmost empathy and a safe space for my clients to be able to address the issues they need help with. I believe in being solution-focused while addressing the underlying causes of repetitive patterns in order to stop the self-destructive cycles that produce unfavorable results. My goal is to help you to change your behavior to promote positive outcomes towards your mental and emotional wellbeing.
(949) 625-0572 View (949) 625-0572
Photo of Mi Joung Park, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mi Joung Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704  (Online Only)
My main therapeutic tools are Cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, inner child work, strengths-based therapy, and more.
How are you today? My name is Mi Joung Park, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about hearing what you have been through and supporting you to become comfortable with yourself and your environment. I possess extensive experience spanning diverse age groups, from 4 years old to individuals aged 70 and beyond with a focus on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, and various relationship challenges. I operate from the belief that inherent goodness resides within every individual.
My main therapeutic tools are Cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, inner child work, strengths-based therapy, and more.
How are you today? My name is Mi Joung Park, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about hearing what you have been through and supporting you to become comfortable with yourself and your environment. I possess extensive experience spanning diverse age groups, from 4 years old to individuals aged 70 and beyond with a focus on addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, anger management, and various relationship challenges. I operate from the belief that inherent goodness resides within every individual.
(657) 216-6014 View (657) 216-6014
Photo of Armida Bustamante Millán, PsyD, Psychologist
Armida Bustamante Millán
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I am committed to the optimal development of individuals through an increased understanding of themselves and others. I have a sincere appreciation for the strengths and uniqueness of the people I work with, as well as an appreciation for cultural diversity. The therapeutic relationship is an experience that promotes an increased propensity toward self-awareness and change in behavior, allowing individuals and couples to discard maladaptive behaviors that no longer serve them. My goal is to provide an environment of empathy, genuineness and respect where profound issues can be examined and transformation can occur.
I am committed to the optimal development of individuals through an increased understanding of themselves and others. I have a sincere appreciation for the strengths and uniqueness of the people I work with, as well as an appreciation for cultural diversity. The therapeutic relationship is an experience that promotes an increased propensity toward self-awareness and change in behavior, allowing individuals and couples to discard maladaptive behaviors that no longer serve them. My goal is to provide an environment of empathy, genuineness and respect where profound issues can be examined and transformation can occur.
(714) 784-5524 View (714) 784-5524
Photo of Jose Ruvalcaba, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jose Ruvalcaba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92706
My name is Jose Ruvalcaba, and I am an LCSW practicing out of Los Angeles CA. My approach to therapy is very much focused on my client's strengths. Some of my main focus areas include depression, anxiety, grief, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is centered on the strengths and motivational factors of my clients. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my sessions. Additionally, I incorporate motivational interviewing techniques in my practice. The majority of my work with clients is centered on symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, and developmental trauma.
My name is Jose Ruvalcaba, and I am an LCSW practicing out of Los Angeles CA. My approach to therapy is very much focused on my client's strengths. Some of my main focus areas include depression, anxiety, grief, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is centered on the strengths and motivational factors of my clients. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my sessions. Additionally, I incorporate motivational interviewing techniques in my practice. The majority of my work with clients is centered on symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, and developmental trauma.
(657) 500-0966 View (657) 500-0966
Photo of Ryan M. Watanabe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan M. Watanabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Are you concerned about your teenager's excessive stress, argumentative behavior at home, or declining grades? Adolescence is a stressful period as the developmental changes that occur during this time affect almost every area of a teenager's functioning (e.g. relationships with others, risk-taking behavior, sense of identity). However, these changes often lead to great distress on the teenager and their families. Psychotherapy can be a great tool for your child to work through his or her conflicts as they make the difficult transition into adulthood.
Are you concerned about your teenager's excessive stress, argumentative behavior at home, or declining grades? Adolescence is a stressful period as the developmental changes that occur during this time affect almost every area of a teenager's functioning (e.g. relationships with others, risk-taking behavior, sense of identity). However, these changes often lead to great distress on the teenager and their families. Psychotherapy can be a great tool for your child to work through his or her conflicts as they make the difficult transition into adulthood.
(949) 297-6072 View (949) 297-6072
Photo of Janet Francis-Cisneros, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Francis-Cisneros
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
EVERY behavior caused by stress is an effort at communication.
My practice focus is in parenting help that is immediate and effective. I translate your child's behaviors into meaningful and immediately usable information. If your experience includes childhood abuse, I provide a therapy environment that is casual and comfortable to support you.
EVERY behavior caused by stress is an effort at communication.
My practice focus is in parenting help that is immediate and effective. I translate your child's behaviors into meaningful and immediately usable information. If your experience includes childhood abuse, I provide a therapy environment that is casual and comfortable to support you.
(714) 294-2427 View (714) 294-2427
Photo of Rudy Loera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rudy Loera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
(657) 218-2578 View (657) 218-2578
Photo of Richard J. Kaufman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard J. Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I draw from cognitive- behavioral theories and supportive therapy blend-ing these techniques to meet the needs of each individual client.
I believe each individual is unique. My greatest strength is helping people make positive choices in their lives. I would like to assist you in navagating a course of success in relationships, improve communication and learn to feel better about yourself.
I draw from cognitive- behavioral theories and supportive therapy blend-ing these techniques to meet the needs of each individual client.
I believe each individual is unique. My greatest strength is helping people make positive choices in their lives. I would like to assist you in navagating a course of success in relationships, improve communication and learn to feel better about yourself.
(714) 336-3732 View (714) 336-3732
Photo of Alexa Enyart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I can help you prevent relapse and manage behavioral patterns.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I can help you prevent relapse and manage behavioral patterns.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(657) 530-6419 View (657) 530-6419
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.