Behavioral Issues Therapists in Seal Beach, CA

Photo of Michele Ocen, PhD, Psychologist
Michele Ocen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
While I have training in a number of approaches, I enjoy and have expertise in applied behavior analysis (ABA), the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Parent Coaching, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Do you have questions about your child's behavior and/ or development? Do you need strategies for better behavior? We can help! We help parents by providing developmental and diagnostic assessments for children, usually when there are questions about language, learning, play, social skills, and/ or development. We have specific expertise in the early detection and treatment of autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Assessment results are often used to help guide parents to appropriate treatments and available resources.
While I have training in a number of approaches, I enjoy and have expertise in applied behavior analysis (ABA), the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Parent Coaching, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
Do you have questions about your child's behavior and/ or development? Do you need strategies for better behavior? We can help! We help parents by providing developmental and diagnostic assessments for children, usually when there are questions about language, learning, play, social skills, and/ or development. We have specific expertise in the early detection and treatment of autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Assessment results are often used to help guide parents to appropriate treatments and available resources.
(562) 418-5151 View (562) 418-5151
Photo of Debbie Chen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I offer evidence-based treatments for mental health issues such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, behavior modification, addiction, adjustment/life transitions, bereavement, and parenting.
As life progresses, there may be events/situations that may lead to imbalance which can be uncomfortable and distressing, as well as attribute to mental health issues. The combination may minimize or compromise our inner strengths. I aim to collaborate and support in maximizing your inner strengths to better manage, work through, and cope with life transitions and difficulties. I work towards empowering you to take control of your life through self-awareness, insight, and techniques specific to obtain your goals. My approach with each client is uniquely tailored to take into consideration of any diversity and/or culture differences.
I offer evidence-based treatments for mental health issues such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, behavior modification, addiction, adjustment/life transitions, bereavement, and parenting.
As life progresses, there may be events/situations that may lead to imbalance which can be uncomfortable and distressing, as well as attribute to mental health issues. The combination may minimize or compromise our inner strengths. I aim to collaborate and support in maximizing your inner strengths to better manage, work through, and cope with life transitions and difficulties. I work towards empowering you to take control of your life through self-awareness, insight, and techniques specific to obtain your goals. My approach with each client is uniquely tailored to take into consideration of any diversity and/or culture differences.
(714) 503-0375 View (714) 503-0375
Photo of Stacy Maureen Mitchell - Inner Strength, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inner Strength
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Whether your child is struggling with Anxiety, ADD/ADHD symptoms, Anger Management, Self-Harm, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive behaviors, Trouble in school, Experienced abuse or neglect, Life transitions such as parent’s divorce, Difficulty adjusting to a new environment, Loss of a loved one, Behavioral problems at school or home, Lack of social skills and interactions, Illegal drug use, Emotional or psychological problems, it is important that you know they don’t have to be alone in this journey.
Whether your child is struggling with Anxiety, ADD/ADHD symptoms, Anger Management, Self-Harm, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive behaviors, Trouble in school, Experienced abuse or neglect, Life transitions such as parent’s divorce, Difficulty adjusting to a new environment, Loss of a loved one, Behavioral problems at school or home, Lack of social skills and interactions, Illegal drug use, Emotional or psychological problems, it is important that you know they don’t have to be alone in this journey.
(562) 418-5310 View (562) 418-5310
Photo of Elvira (Elle) C. Walker, PsyD, Psychologist
Elvira (Elle) C. Walker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I offer Cognitive Behavioral, culturally sensitive and solution based sessions specifically designed to guide you through a series of foundation building therapeutic processes to give you specific skills to master and enhance positive behaviors and improve overall satisfaction in life.
Hello, and welcome! Taking the first step to locate the right Behavioral Health provider can be a daunting task, but the courage it takes to start one's personal journey is sacred and is a very respected endeavor. To all who are seeking to increase personal peace and contentment at any given point in their lives, I am dedicated to assisting you with the compassionate support and professionalism necessary to provide success in obtaining your specific goals throughout our therapeutic journey together.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral, culturally sensitive and solution based sessions specifically designed to guide you through a series of foundation building therapeutic processes to give you specific skills to master and enhance positive behaviors and improve overall satisfaction in life.
Hello, and welcome! Taking the first step to locate the right Behavioral Health provider can be a daunting task, but the courage it takes to start one's personal journey is sacred and is a very respected endeavor. To all who are seeking to increase personal peace and contentment at any given point in their lives, I am dedicated to assisting you with the compassionate support and professionalism necessary to provide success in obtaining your specific goals throughout our therapeutic journey together.
(562) 359-4822 View (562) 359-4822
Photo of Elizabeth G. Middleton - Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(949) 375-0577 View (949) 375-0577
Photo of Vanessa K. Patterson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa K. Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a nationally certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, parental reunification, grief/loss, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Hello and welcome! Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task and I want to acknowledge your courage for taking the first step towards creating vital change in your life. When reaching out for help, we all want to feel at ease and comfortable; working with someone free of judgement who treats us with kindness and respect. I am very easy to talk to and my aim is to assist you in obtaining a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I have been working with children, adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 10 years.
I am a nationally certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, parental reunification, grief/loss, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Hello and welcome! Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task and I want to acknowledge your courage for taking the first step towards creating vital change in your life. When reaching out for help, we all want to feel at ease and comfortable; working with someone free of judgement who treats us with kindness and respect. I am very easy to talk to and my aim is to assist you in obtaining a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I have been working with children, adults, teenagers, families and couples for over 10 years.
(562) 741-3596 View (562) 741-3596
Photo of Michele M Marks, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele M Marks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(714) 482-6180 View (714) 482-6180
Photo of Anita Herrera-Hamilton, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Anita Herrera-Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Herrera-Hamilton specializes in conditions related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, and other medical conditions affecting brain- behavior relationships.
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
Herrera-Hamilton specializes in conditions related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, and other medical conditions affecting brain- behavior relationships.
Dr. Anita Herrera-Hamilton is a board-certified NEUROpsychologist and Associate Professor at CHLA & USC Keck School of Medicine. She specializes in NEUROpsychological & psychoEDUCATional evaluations of children, adolescents & adults. Specialties include: concussion, traumatic brain injury, & medical conditions affecting brain functioning. As a psychoTHERAPIst & certified YOGA instructor, Dr. Herrera-Hamilton works exclusively with elite and Division I student-athletes, coaches, and parents, to optimize performance by targeting the central and peripheral nervous system via somatic, mindful, and talk therapy to enhance performance.
(562) 374-7895 View (562) 374-7895
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, CATCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 255-5534 View (657) 255-5534
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(323) 417-9393 View (323) 417-9393
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(657) 214-3099 View (657) 214-3099
Photo of Jennifer Contreras, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Contreras
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Children face so many struggles and challenges today. Some may be experiencing social, emotional, and behavioral issues, while some may be experiencing a stressful life transition such as a move, adoption, or a loss. And yet some may be distressed without a known stressor. I provide a safe space for children to explore their struggles and identify attainable solutions.
Children face so many struggles and challenges today. Some may be experiencing social, emotional, and behavioral issues, while some may be experiencing a stressful life transition such as a move, adoption, or a loss. And yet some may be distressed without a known stressor. I provide a safe space for children to explore their struggles and identify attainable solutions.
(714) 577-2572 View (714) 577-2572
Photo of Tiffany Kapp, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Kapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I utilize Attachment theory, Cognitive Behavioral and The Gottman method principles to improve your understanding of yourself and the thoughts and behavioral patterns that are keeping you from feeling content.
I See you, I Hear you, I'm With you. Those are the words everyone wants to hear at some point in their lives! At Talk Therapy with Tiffany, I can assure you that I want to hear your story and get to know you as you are. I won't try to change you, or judge you or criticize you. I am here to listen and help you navigate through life's challenges with optimism and hope.
I utilize Attachment theory, Cognitive Behavioral and The Gottman method principles to improve your understanding of yourself and the thoughts and behavioral patterns that are keeping you from feeling content.
I See you, I Hear you, I'm With you. Those are the words everyone wants to hear at some point in their lives! At Talk Therapy with Tiffany, I can assure you that I want to hear your story and get to know you as you are. I won't try to change you, or judge you or criticize you. I am here to listen and help you navigate through life's challenges with optimism and hope.
(310) 340-2596 View (310) 340-2596
Photo of Alexis Maron - Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance, MA, RDT, BCT, RADT
Alexis Maron: Mental Fitness and Performance
MA, RDT, BCT, RADT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Participants see DT affect change in their behavior, emotional state, personal growth, and skill adaptation.
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
Participants see DT affect change in their behavior, emotional state, personal growth, and skill adaptation.
The main reason why couples seek counseling is due to a communication breakdown that begins to dismantle an otherwise healthy relationship. Our primary need is to be understood, but if partners are using different modes of communication, there can be a disconnect. DT can provide the jump-start to help find the excitement and communication that couples experienced at the beginning of a relationship, and the common ground that can build a stronger place from which to build trust. In learning more about the roles we play, DT offers partners the opportunity to gain greater insight about themselves and about their problems in relationships.
(323) 289-2220 View (323) 289-2220
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(310) 742-9232 View (310) 742-9232
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive- behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(909) 318-1937 View (909) 318-1937
Photo of Earl Klebe, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Earl Klebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Are you finding it difficult to manage compulsive sexual behavior or excessive porn use? There is help available to regain control and improve your life and you don't have to do this alone. As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, I understand the impact of sexual betrayal trauma on both partners and relationships. Break free from addictive behaviors with my directive therapy approach, rooted in Dr. Patrick Carnes' research. Let's work together to repair the damage and start the healing journey.
Are you finding it difficult to manage compulsive sexual behavior or excessive porn use? There is help available to regain control and improve your life and you don't have to do this alone. As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, I understand the impact of sexual betrayal trauma on both partners and relationships. Break free from addictive behaviors with my directive therapy approach, rooted in Dr. Patrick Carnes' research. Let's work together to repair the damage and start the healing journey.
(562) 539-2324 View (562) 539-2324
Photo of Sidney Tarpinian - Sid Tarpinian, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sid Tarpinian, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Often, talk therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral alone is sufficient to elicit change.
tIf you are seeking therapy in a quiet, confidential and safe environment where you can address and resolve what is leading you to seek professional support, this is the place. I am currently scheduling in person appointments for individual adults and First Responders on Mondays and Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Telephone or video sessions are also available.
Often, talk therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral alone is sufficient to elicit change.
tIf you are seeking therapy in a quiet, confidential and safe environment where you can address and resolve what is leading you to seek professional support, this is the place. I am currently scheduling in person appointments for individual adults and First Responders on Mondays and Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Telephone or video sessions are also available.
(562) 273-9760 View (562) 273-9760
Photo of Deborah Bernal, BSN, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Bernal
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps us explore our thinking and feeling and the actions we take based on those thoughts and feelings.
I work with those who are having difficulty or trouble in relationships or in relating to a difficult person. You will find me easy to talk with as together we find solutions for your difficulties. I will encourage you as I walk beside you to systematically discover the answers that you already have within. I will not force or push but gently challenge you to become your best. This journey of counseling will have a beginning and an end. We will be a team every step of the way. I look forward to meeting with you. Let's get started. You will find the help you are seeking.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps us explore our thinking and feeling and the actions we take based on those thoughts and feelings.
I work with those who are having difficulty or trouble in relationships or in relating to a difficult person. You will find me easy to talk with as together we find solutions for your difficulties. I will encourage you as I walk beside you to systematically discover the answers that you already have within. I will not force or push but gently challenge you to become your best. This journey of counseling will have a beginning and an end. We will be a team every step of the way. I look forward to meeting with you. Let's get started. You will find the help you are seeking.
(714) 905-5934 View (714) 905-5934
Photo of Stacia Deiro, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacia Deiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My approach is personalized and eclectic, drawing from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Humanistic therapy to best meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with managing stress, low mood, grief, or a loss of your sense of self that's impacting your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and unsure where to start for improvement? I understand how circumstances can sometimes feel overwhelming or hopeless, and I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to help.
My approach is personalized and eclectic, drawing from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Humanistic therapy to best meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with managing stress, low mood, grief, or a loss of your sense of self that's impacting your daily life? Do you feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and unsure where to start for improvement? I understand how circumstances can sometimes feel overwhelming or hopeless, and I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with a life-changing event, adolescent challenges, or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, addiction, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to help.
(949) 270-3313 View (949) 270-3313
1
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.