Behavioral Issues Therapists in Ponte Vedra, FL

Photo of Deborah J Dungan, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Deborah J Dungan
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Their emotional and behavioral issues affect their love ones, family and friends.
Life can have twists and bumps along the way. As a caring professional working in the behavioral health field for over 15 years I can assist you in the development or refining coping skills so you can continue with quality in activities of daily living. Working with a variety of clients (children, teenagers and adults) I have found that one size does not fit all in behavioral health. I work with my clients to develop a plan that will best suit their needs. It is important that the individual meet their needs. Together we can work as a team to reach your goal.
Their emotional and behavioral issues affect their love ones, family and friends.
Life can have twists and bumps along the way. As a caring professional working in the behavioral health field for over 15 years I can assist you in the development or refining coping skills so you can continue with quality in activities of daily living. Working with a variety of clients (children, teenagers and adults) I have found that one size does not fit all in behavioral health. I work with my clients to develop a plan that will best suit their needs. It is important that the individual meet their needs. Together we can work as a team to reach your goal.
(904) 906-6796 View (904) 906-6796
Photo of Mina Tarquinio, LMHC, Counselor
Mina Tarquinio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Life does not come with a manual, however, I can help you create a specialized one for you! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers therapy from a Holistic approach. I specialize in informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). My passion is to help people live a life that is fulfilling both internally and externally. I also give my clients tools so that they will learn how to both manage and validate their emotions, improve communication and reach their goals.
Life does not come with a manual, however, I can help you create a specialized one for you! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers therapy from a Holistic approach. I specialize in informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). My passion is to help people live a life that is fulfilling both internally and externally. I also give my clients tools so that they will learn how to both manage and validate their emotions, improve communication and reach their goals.
(786) 244-6476 View (786) 244-6476
Photo of Heather H Stewart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather H Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
I specialize in a variety of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatments with an emphasis on anxiety, depression and trauma.
My goal is to help you in the areas of life where you feel stuck, identify the areas of suffering you experience, and to come up with a plan to move you forward in your life. Every person is different as is every single plan for treatment. I am trained in a variety of therapies and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, and trauma. If I can help you figure out next steps, please don't hesitate to give me a call or send me an email.
I specialize in a variety of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatments with an emphasis on anxiety, depression and trauma.
My goal is to help you in the areas of life where you feel stuck, identify the areas of suffering you experience, and to come up with a plan to move you forward in your life. Every person is different as is every single plan for treatment. I am trained in a variety of therapies and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationships, and trauma. If I can help you figure out next steps, please don't hesitate to give me a call or send me an email.
(904) 837-6670 View (904) 837-6670
Photo of Stacie Sebastian, LMHC, MA, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie Sebastian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MA, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Sorry, I am not accepting new clients at this time. With over 20 years of counseling experience, specializing in anxiety disorders, trauma, and depression, I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with these conditions. I will offer you an individualized treatment, tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a personalized approach to your well-being. Utilizing techniques such as Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the Polyvagal Approach, I will provide you with comprehensive and effective solutions to help you overcome life's challenges.
Sorry, I am not accepting new clients at this time. With over 20 years of counseling experience, specializing in anxiety disorders, trauma, and depression, I understand the unique challenges individuals face when dealing with these conditions. I will offer you an individualized treatment, tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a personalized approach to your well-being. Utilizing techniques such as Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the Polyvagal Approach, I will provide you with comprehensive and effective solutions to help you overcome life's challenges.
(904) 560-5054 View (904) 560-5054
Photo of Maryclaire Mena, LCSW, Psy A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryclaire Mena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Psy A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
I use a psychoanalytic approach that focuses on changing a person's negative behavior and/relationship patterns to relieve symptoms of anxiety, and depression.
Maryclaire Mena has over 30 years of helping college students, young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, school and work problems and family issues.
I use a psychoanalytic approach that focuses on changing a person's negative behavior and/relationship patterns to relieve symptoms of anxiety, and depression.
Maryclaire Mena has over 30 years of helping college students, young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, school and work problems and family issues.
(201) 669-4323 View (201) 669-4323
Photo of Tracy Jill Hannah, MEd, LMHC, LLC, Counselor
Tracy Jill Hannah
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS 'Virtual' and 'In Office' sessions offered. Reaching out to a therapist isn't an easy decision, I know. Especially, if you have tried therapy before and feel it was unsuccessful. I will offer you a comfortable, welcoming environment and a specialization in relationships, and family issues. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. EFT is a highly successful, empirically proven form of couple therapy based on Attachment Theory. I work with individuals who are struggling with life changes, anxiety, mood disorders, and family dynamics. Please see my WEBSITE for more information.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS 'Virtual' and 'In Office' sessions offered. Reaching out to a therapist isn't an easy decision, I know. Especially, if you have tried therapy before and feel it was unsuccessful. I will offer you a comfortable, welcoming environment and a specialization in relationships, and family issues. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. EFT is a highly successful, empirically proven form of couple therapy based on Attachment Theory. I work with individuals who are struggling with life changes, anxiety, mood disorders, and family dynamics. Please see my WEBSITE for more information.
(410) 657-8460 View (410) 657-8460
Photo of Isobel McGrath, MS, LMHC, CAP, CHT, CLC, Counselor
Isobel McGrath
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CAP, CHT, CLC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Tools MAY include Cognitive behavioral, visualization/hypnosis, mindfulness, tapping(EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), customized mp3's.
"Why continue to struggle alone?" Often we need expert guidance to move forward. My holistic, non-judging, compassionate, realistic approach helps you break free from the past and unhealthy behaviors. Cllients report feeling an increase in confidence, self control, well-being and improved relationships. I have successfully assisted others in the many life challenges: anxiety, fears(flying, driving), trauma, depression, addictions(alcohol, drugs, sex, weight/body), co-dependency. Visit http://mindful-options.com/ for a FREE mind makeover(mp3/pdf) to decrease stress and calm your emotions today. Telephone/video available.
Tools MAY include Cognitive behavioral, visualization/hypnosis, mindfulness, tapping(EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), customized mp3's.
"Why continue to struggle alone?" Often we need expert guidance to move forward. My holistic, non-judging, compassionate, realistic approach helps you break free from the past and unhealthy behaviors. Cllients report feeling an increase in confidence, self control, well-being and improved relationships. I have successfully assisted others in the many life challenges: anxiety, fears(flying, driving), trauma, depression, addictions(alcohol, drugs, sex, weight/body), co-dependency. Visit http://mindful-options.com/ for a FREE mind makeover(mp3/pdf) to decrease stress and calm your emotions today. Telephone/video available.
(904) 209-9122 View (904) 209-9122
Photo of Michael James Brown, MSc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael James Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Are you having relationship difficulties? Caught in a negative perspective of your partner and your relationship? Having difficulty managing conflict? Caught in gridlocked, perpetual conflict? Feeling lonely and isolated? In a relationship where one or both of you are in recovery from addiction? Concerned about the effects of addiction on your children or family? Having difficulty with child behavior or parent-child conflict? If yes, I would like to help you and have the knowledge, the training, and the skills to do so.
Are you having relationship difficulties? Caught in a negative perspective of your partner and your relationship? Having difficulty managing conflict? Caught in gridlocked, perpetual conflict? Feeling lonely and isolated? In a relationship where one or both of you are in recovery from addiction? Concerned about the effects of addiction on your children or family? Having difficulty with child behavior or parent-child conflict? If yes, I would like to help you and have the knowledge, the training, and the skills to do so.
(904) 574-4744 View (904) 574-4744
Photo of Ricky Thompson, MA, LMHC, NCC
Ricky Thompson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
By using proven therapeutic approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Asking for help takes courage, and can be life-changing. My practice focuses on helping individuals take back control of their lives. My experience includes assisting clients with a variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Anger, Communication, and other life-distressing problems. I provide no-nonsense solution-focused strategies utilizing cognitive- behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, and motivational approaches.
By using proven therapeutic approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Asking for help takes courage, and can be life-changing. My practice focuses on helping individuals take back control of their lives. My experience includes assisting clients with a variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Anger, Communication, and other life-distressing problems. I provide no-nonsense solution-focused strategies utilizing cognitive- behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, and motivational approaches.
(904) 604-7681 View (904) 604-7681
Photo of Patty Mohler, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Patty Mohler
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Patty's approach will include cognitive behavior therapy, schema therapy, EMDR, and Gottman techniques.
Do you feel as if you can't do it alone? Feel trapped and as if there's nowhere to turn? Perhaps you worry all the time and never seem to find solutions to your problems or your feelings are affecting your sleep, eating, job and relationships. Have you tried to change, but things aren't getting better? If this sounds like you, it is time to get help! Together we will work to find the solutions.
Patty's approach will include cognitive behavior therapy, schema therapy, EMDR, and Gottman techniques.
Do you feel as if you can't do it alone? Feel trapped and as if there's nowhere to turn? Perhaps you worry all the time and never seem to find solutions to your problems or your feelings are affecting your sleep, eating, job and relationships. Have you tried to change, but things aren't getting better? If this sounds like you, it is time to get help! Together we will work to find the solutions.
(904) 337-5893 View (904) 337-5893
Photo of Maren Villavisanis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maren Villavisanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
I have worked with a wide array of social, emotional and behavioral issues affecting children and adolescents.
I have enjoyed counseling, playing with and learning from children, adolescents and their grown ups for the past twenty years. As a mother and therapist, I understand the magic and the challenges of childhood and parenting and the not so magical struggles that children and their families face. No matter our age, life presents many obstacles and opportunities to grow. In the overwhelming confusion, we can lose sight of all the things we are doing right. Through gentleness, compassion and empathy, I can help you find the answers already inside of you, experience joy, strengthen your relationships and have fun while doing so.
I have worked with a wide array of social, emotional and behavioral issues affecting children and adolescents.
I have enjoyed counseling, playing with and learning from children, adolescents and their grown ups for the past twenty years. As a mother and therapist, I understand the magic and the challenges of childhood and parenting and the not so magical struggles that children and their families face. No matter our age, life presents many obstacles and opportunities to grow. In the overwhelming confusion, we can lose sight of all the things we are doing right. Through gentleness, compassion and empathy, I can help you find the answers already inside of you, experience joy, strengthen your relationships and have fun while doing so.
(904) 587-4681 View (904) 587-4681
Photo of Denise Grubb, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Grubb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
I employ a blend of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Mind-Body approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in counseling couples, families, and individuals. My passion lies in guiding clients through their personal and relational challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents, addressing issues related to family systems, mental health, and substance abuse.
I employ a blend of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Mind-Body approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in counseling couples, families, and individuals. My passion lies in guiding clients through their personal and relational challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents, addressing issues related to family systems, mental health, and substance abuse.
(904) 736-2524 View (904) 736-2524
Photo of Suzanne Marie Sierp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Marie Sierp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
I have since developed into a clinician who treats a myriad of presenting problems, including anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, mood and depressive disorders and behavioral problems.
I consider my work to be less of a job and more of a calling. When you enter into therapy with me, I devote myself to our partnership. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount and sacred. Your individuality is valued in our treatment; all treatment goals, plans, and activities are specifically curated to meet your needs. My knowledge spans various approaches to and applications of therapy. I am confident in the therapy I provide, and I am qualified to help you. I am licensed in two states and have many years of experience supervising newer therapists and Masters-level students.
I have since developed into a clinician who treats a myriad of presenting problems, including anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, mood and depressive disorders and behavioral problems.
I consider my work to be less of a job and more of a calling. When you enter into therapy with me, I devote myself to our partnership. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount and sacred. Your individuality is valued in our treatment; all treatment goals, plans, and activities are specifically curated to meet your needs. My knowledge spans various approaches to and applications of therapy. I am confident in the therapy I provide, and I am qualified to help you. I am licensed in two states and have many years of experience supervising newer therapists and Masters-level students.
(904) 590-2930 View (904) 590-2930
Photo of Nelsy Villalobos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nelsy Villalobos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
My name is Nelsy Villalobos. I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing clinical and social work services. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety and Depression by employing Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy. My ideal client, the best match to my particular approach to therapy is the person with trauma and abuse history, anxiety, boundary problems, those who experience chronic unhappiness, chronic depression, self-esteem issues, or those who have experienced narcissistic and other forms of emotional abuse. Those in need of mindfulness or stress reduction.
My name is Nelsy Villalobos. I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing clinical and social work services. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety and Depression by employing Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy. My ideal client, the best match to my particular approach to therapy is the person with trauma and abuse history, anxiety, boundary problems, those who experience chronic unhappiness, chronic depression, self-esteem issues, or those who have experienced narcissistic and other forms of emotional abuse. Those in need of mindfulness or stress reduction.
(904) 867-8457 View (904) 867-8457
Photo of Lesley M Eckhardt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesley M Eckhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
It is my desire to provide you the compassion and acceptance that is needed to break the ties that are keeping you from moving forward, allowing for personal and interpersonal insights and developing healthy cognitive and behavioral responses that will lead to personal growth.
Hello and welcome! The journey forward begins with you, and the steps you take on this therapeutic journey. It is my hope that I can come along side you and help you navigate your concerns by facing and overcoming challenges of the past and present that have been inhibiting you from reaching your fullest potential and becoming the best version of yourself.
It is my desire to provide you the compassion and acceptance that is needed to break the ties that are keeping you from moving forward, allowing for personal and interpersonal insights and developing healthy cognitive and behavioral responses that will lead to personal growth.
Hello and welcome! The journey forward begins with you, and the steps you take on this therapeutic journey. It is my hope that I can come along side you and help you navigate your concerns by facing and overcoming challenges of the past and present that have been inhibiting you from reaching your fullest potential and becoming the best version of yourself.
(786) 756-8095 View (786) 756-8095
Photo of Ellen Kordonowy, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ellen Kordonowy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
I am certified in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi! I'm Ellen, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern. I believe that mental health care is beneficial at any stage of life. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore your fears, desires, and stressors. Whether you’re seeking self-reflection, healing from the past, preparing for the future, or addressing a current issue, I am committed to supporting you wherever you are in your journey. I also work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
I am certified in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Hi! I'm Ellen, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern. I believe that mental health care is beneficial at any stage of life. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore your fears, desires, and stressors. Whether you’re seeking self-reflection, healing from the past, preparing for the future, or addressing a current issue, I am committed to supporting you wherever you are in your journey. I also work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
(904) 792-6914 View (904) 792-6914
Photo of Rebecca Jones, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Being classically trained in behavior analysis, I bring both a family systems and spiritual approach to therapy.
Transitions in life can be extremely difficult. Do you find that you are second-guessing yourself and your choices? Would you like a neutral third party to help you process and facilitate your ability to make healthy boundaries with those around you? I specialize in women's issues in regards to new moms and transitions in parenting. I enjoy working with strong-willed children and teens while helping their family support them. Because of my passion for these populations, I provide weekend hours to work with my clients' busy schedules. I believe in creating a safe place for each client to unload and work through emotional issues.
Being classically trained in behavior analysis, I bring both a family systems and spiritual approach to therapy.
Transitions in life can be extremely difficult. Do you find that you are second-guessing yourself and your choices? Would you like a neutral third party to help you process and facilitate your ability to make healthy boundaries with those around you? I specialize in women's issues in regards to new moms and transitions in parenting. I enjoy working with strong-willed children and teens while helping their family support them. Because of my passion for these populations, I provide weekend hours to work with my clients' busy schedules. I believe in creating a safe place for each client to unload and work through emotional issues.
(904) 606-8765 View (904) 606-8765
Photo of Eileen S Crawford, MS, MBA, LMHC
Eileen S Crawford
Mental Health Counselor, MS, MBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Taking that first step to meet a counselor shows courage and strength, even when you might be feeling anything but that. I work hard to make sure you are comfortable in the counseling process. Together, we set therapeutic goals specific to your needs and develop a flexible treatment approach based on your strengths and resources. My work with couples uses Gottman Relationship Therapy, which has proven highly effective. Research-based, it focuses on teaching couples tools and techniques to build a fuller, happier long-term relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families, and work with pre-teens to seniors.
Taking that first step to meet a counselor shows courage and strength, even when you might be feeling anything but that. I work hard to make sure you are comfortable in the counseling process. Together, we set therapeutic goals specific to your needs and develop a flexible treatment approach based on your strengths and resources. My work with couples uses Gottman Relationship Therapy, which has proven highly effective. Research-based, it focuses on teaching couples tools and techniques to build a fuller, happier long-term relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families, and work with pre-teens to seniors.
(407) 680-1758 View (407) 680-1758
Photo of Dr. Angela Colaiezzi, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Angela Colaiezzi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
In the blink of an eye, everything can change! No one expects the types of life changes that can turn your world upside down, but now you need help to find the tools to move forward. Together, we will work through these changes. With psychotherapy, we will create your path to healing, strength, growth, hope, and peace, one step at a time, whether you are trying to adjust to an illness, diagnosis, stressor, life-change, or re-identification. If you, or someone you love, is experiencing changes in thinking, we will work together to foster strategies through cognitive rehabilitation and/or executive skills expansion to create harmony.
In the blink of an eye, everything can change! No one expects the types of life changes that can turn your world upside down, but now you need help to find the tools to move forward. Together, we will work through these changes. With psychotherapy, we will create your path to healing, strength, growth, hope, and peace, one step at a time, whether you are trying to adjust to an illness, diagnosis, stressor, life-change, or re-identification. If you, or someone you love, is experiencing changes in thinking, we will work together to foster strategies through cognitive rehabilitation and/or executive skills expansion to create harmony.
(904) 789-4150 View (904) 789-4150
Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee, PhD, Psychologist
Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
(904) 342-1262 View (904) 342-1262
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Behavioral Issues Therapists

What happens in therapy for behavioral issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behavior issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioral issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioral issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioral concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behavior management, often used when the underlying cause of behavior issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioral issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behavior issues?

Studies show that therapy for behavior issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behavior later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behavior. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.