Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapists in Berwyn, IL

Photo of Shipra S Parikh, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shipra S Parikh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I welcome clients who see themselves aligned with values in my profile, especially those who seeking a better therapy experience grounded in emotional connection, social justice, and authenticity. Therapy has the potential to be incredibly healing, but also comes from a history of harm, having othered people on the basis of age, race, gender, sexuality, spirituality, and disability. I offer a trauma-responsive relationship through which we can explore narrative healing of your authentic self, commitments to anti-oppressive and anti-racist living, anti-adultist parenting support, and supportive community and relationship building.
I welcome clients who see themselves aligned with values in my profile, especially those who seeking a better therapy experience grounded in emotional connection, social justice, and authenticity. Therapy has the potential to be incredibly healing, but also comes from a history of harm, having othered people on the basis of age, race, gender, sexuality, spirituality, and disability. I offer a trauma-responsive relationship through which we can explore narrative healing of your authentic self, commitments to anti-oppressive and anti-racist living, anti-adultist parenting support, and supportive community and relationship building.
(312) 970-0777 View (312) 970-0777
Photo of Elena Vassallo, MDiv, LCPC
Elena Vassallo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
Elena Vassallo has twenty-eight years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, phase of life transitions, low self-esteem, feelings of meaninglessness, relationship issues and more.
Elena Vassallo has twenty-eight years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, phase of life transitions, low self-esteem, feelings of meaninglessness, relationship issues and more.
(708) 437-6996 View (708) 437-6996
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Engelhard, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Engelhard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
When working with children, I frequently use play therapy and utilize elements of evidence-based theories, like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
When working with children, I frequently use play therapy and utilize elements of evidence-based theories, like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.
I'm a queer therapist who often works with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Latine children, adults, couples/partners, families, and polycules, while being mindful of my white identity. My areas of interest include identity exploration and intersectionality, difficulties related to sex and intimacy, challenges in communication between partners, and non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I work across the lifespan and have experience with children as young as three years old through adulthood. I often pull from frameworks like psychodynamic theory, person-centered therapy, and attachment theory.
(872) 401-8481 View (872) 401-8481
Photo of Missy Williams, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Missy Williams
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
She has trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), IFS, Play Therapy, and parent-child conflict.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
She has trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), IFS, Play Therapy, and parent-child conflict.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
(872) 204-1198 View (872) 204-1198
Photo of Bridget Bauersfeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Bauersfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I am trained in the following: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Parent Child Interaction Therapy ( PCIT), and introductory training in somatic experiencing.
I believe people have the innate capacity for self-healing. I have over twenty years of experience and have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, mental health centers and private practice. I am committed to helping people on their path to healing as they navigate their unique life challenges. I strongly believe therapy is a collaborative process and I am dedicated to empowering clients foster their resilience to live more balanced lives. In addition to my practice, I engage in continuous learning and professional development to ensure that I remain current with advancements in mental health care.
I am trained in the following: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Parent Child Interaction Therapy ( PCIT), and introductory training in somatic experiencing.
I believe people have the innate capacity for self-healing. I have over twenty years of experience and have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, mental health centers and private practice. I am committed to helping people on their path to healing as they navigate their unique life challenges. I strongly believe therapy is a collaborative process and I am dedicated to empowering clients foster their resilience to live more balanced lives. In addition to my practice, I engage in continuous learning and professional development to ensure that I remain current with advancements in mental health care.
(872) 276-9993 View (872) 276-9993
Photo of Julia Burbano, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia Burbano
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I have worked with various children, teens, and families exhibiting diagnoses related to anxiety, depression, stress/life events, behavioral changes or challenges, family dynamics, parent-child communication, self harm or self injurious behaviors. During our time together, we will learn what treatment modalities will work best for you while also incorporating a developmentally appropriate intervention. I believe every child and family has their own story and I look forward to hearing each individual’s perspective and translating that into our therapeutic space!
I have worked with various children, teens, and families exhibiting diagnoses related to anxiety, depression, stress/life events, behavioral changes or challenges, family dynamics, parent-child communication, self harm or self injurious behaviors. During our time together, we will learn what treatment modalities will work best for you while also incorporating a developmentally appropriate intervention. I believe every child and family has their own story and I look forward to hearing each individual’s perspective and translating that into our therapeutic space!
(872) 313-5220 View (872) 313-5220
Photo of Agnes Lepicka, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Agnes Lepicka
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60634
Agnes Lepicka MA LCPC (Agnieszka Lepicka). I am a Polish and English speaking Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have extensive experience in providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My approach is supportive, authentic, and evidence-based. I have extensive experience treating adolescents, ADHD, learning differences, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, social training, trauma and life transitions. I provide counseling services in an empowering environment where clients can feel safe and secure as they work toward achieving their goals. I offer parent education through dynamic and interactive lectures, and through small group sessions on a variety of parenting topics.
Agnes Lepicka MA LCPC (Agnieszka Lepicka). I am a Polish and English speaking Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have extensive experience in providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My approach is supportive, authentic, and evidence-based. I have extensive experience treating adolescents, ADHD, learning differences, parent-child conflict, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, social training, trauma and life transitions. I provide counseling services in an empowering environment where clients can feel safe and secure as they work toward achieving their goals. I offer parent education through dynamic and interactive lectures, and through small group sessions on a variety of parenting topics.
(847) 637-0287 View (847) 637-0287
Photo of Sthefany Alviar, PsyD, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sthefany Alviar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, parent-child relationship ( PCIT), cultural identity/experiences, sports performance, and neurodivergent issues.
I believe one of the most courageous acts a person can take is to seek therapy and professional support. As your therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create a space where you feel safe to learn more about yourself and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Seeking to heal and be whole is a brave undertaking, and I hope to journey alongside you as we work towards your therapeutic goals.
I specialize in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, parent-child relationship ( PCIT), cultural identity/experiences, sports performance, and neurodivergent issues.
I believe one of the most courageous acts a person can take is to seek therapy and professional support. As your therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create a space where you feel safe to learn more about yourself and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Seeking to heal and be whole is a brave undertaking, and I hope to journey alongside you as we work towards your therapeutic goals.
(312) 964-8838 View (312) 964-8838
Photo of Dr. Celia Zanayed, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Celia Zanayed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bridgeview, IL 60455  (Online Only)
I am also specialized in parent-child interaction therapy ( PCIT) which is perfect for children 2-7 years old.
Hi, my name is Dr. Celia and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who opened my practice to help those who want to make a change in their lives. I specialize in working with trauma across the lifespan, which is how I know how significantly our brains and bodies can shift after a difficult event and/or a series of difficult life circumstances. Therapy is a space for us to explore how our past informs who we are. Being able to form meaningful relationships is a key part of our mental wellness, but it isn’t always so easy to do.
I am also specialized in parent-child interaction therapy ( PCIT) which is perfect for children 2-7 years old.
Hi, my name is Dr. Celia and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who opened my practice to help those who want to make a change in their lives. I specialize in working with trauma across the lifespan, which is how I know how significantly our brains and bodies can shift after a difficult event and/or a series of difficult life circumstances. Therapy is a space for us to explore how our past informs who we are. Being able to form meaningful relationships is a key part of our mental wellness, but it isn’t always so easy to do.
(312) 647-2330 View (312) 647-2330
Photo of Dr. Valentina Marieyah Pacheco-Cornejo, PsyD, ABPP, CMHIMP, Psychologist
Dr. Valentina Marieyah Pacheco-Cornejo
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616
Specialties include depression, anxiety, parent-child conflict, marital discord, anger management, civil injustices, the integration of spirituality into care, giftedness and neuropsychological concerns such as ADHD, ASD, ID and LD.
Are you tired of arguing with your spouse? How about concerned about your child? Do you think you have ADHD because of recent concerns with inattention, stress or impulsivity? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, call/email my staff today. We are known for our ability to truly get to the root of the matter. We know how to get through to people, mostly because we understand where they are coming from, and how to identify and capitalize on their strengths. Clients often report improvement in a few short weeks. With therapy and neuropsych testing available, this is a one-stop shop for many of your needs.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, parent-child conflict, marital discord, anger management, civil injustices, the integration of spirituality into care, giftedness and neuropsychological concerns such as ADHD, ASD, ID and LD.
Are you tired of arguing with your spouse? How about concerned about your child? Do you think you have ADHD because of recent concerns with inattention, stress or impulsivity? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, call/email my staff today. We are known for our ability to truly get to the root of the matter. We know how to get through to people, mostly because we understand where they are coming from, and how to identify and capitalize on their strengths. Clients often report improvement in a few short weeks. With therapy and neuropsych testing available, this is a one-stop shop for many of your needs.
(708) 564-3597 View (708) 564-3597
Photo of David Kullgren, MA, LCPC
David Kullgren
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
Areas of particular focus include depression, anxiety, parent-child relationships, issues of gender and sexuality, and family/intergenerational dynamics.
Depression, anxiety, loneliness, conflict; these affect all of us, from children to old age, so why not have tools and insights to fight against them? I am a strong believer in creating a safe, warm, non-judgmental space for people to be seen, heard, and to have their problems validated and addressed. Through our work we can use your strengths and insights to help create the best version of you. With a combination of skills including introspection, boundaries, and healthy communication, we can help you realize your full potential in life.
Areas of particular focus include depression, anxiety, parent-child relationships, issues of gender and sexuality, and family/intergenerational dynamics.
Depression, anxiety, loneliness, conflict; these affect all of us, from children to old age, so why not have tools and insights to fight against them? I am a strong believer in creating a safe, warm, non-judgmental space for people to be seen, heard, and to have their problems validated and addressed. Through our work we can use your strengths and insights to help create the best version of you. With a combination of skills including introspection, boundaries, and healthy communication, we can help you realize your full potential in life.
(872) 401-6524 View (872) 401-6524
Photo of Sarah Lynch, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I have additional training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis.
I have an extensive background guiding children, adolescents, families, and young adults toward greater health and fulfillment. Every day I look forward to helping individuals experiencing PTSD, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, life transitions, social struggles, family conflict, ADHD, and behavioral challenges reach their full potential for success. I have an enormous passion for working with children on the autism spectrum and I am dedicated to providing neurodiverse-affirming care for all.
I have additional training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, and Applied Behavior Analysis.
I have an extensive background guiding children, adolescents, families, and young adults toward greater health and fulfillment. Every day I look forward to helping individuals experiencing PTSD, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, life transitions, social struggles, family conflict, ADHD, and behavioral challenges reach their full potential for success. I have an enormous passion for working with children on the autism spectrum and I am dedicated to providing neurodiverse-affirming care for all.
(872) 250-2306 View (872) 250-2306
Photo of Mirjam Quinn, PhD, Psychologist
Mirjam Quinn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy to help kids learn the tools to regulate their emotions, and PCIT, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, and mindfulness techniques in order to help them establish and nurture healthy relationships with themselves and others.
I help parents and kids learn to speak the same language, so that parents can respond to challenging behaviors in an effective and confident way, and kids feel safe, supported, and understood. Nobody heals or changes in a vacuum, and so I focus on building supports throughout the systems that my clients live in.
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy to help kids learn the tools to regulate their emotions, and PCIT, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, and mindfulness techniques in order to help them establish and nurture healthy relationships with themselves and others.
I help parents and kids learn to speak the same language, so that parents can respond to challenging behaviors in an effective and confident way, and kids feel safe, supported, and understood. Nobody heals or changes in a vacuum, and so I focus on building supports throughout the systems that my clients live in.
(708) 991-8602 View (708) 991-8602
Photo of Antonina (Nina) Lunetta, MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Antonina (Nina) Lunetta
MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
(312) 517-2940 View (312) 517-2940
Photo of Ximena Bravo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ximena Bravo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Hello! I am the founder and owner of Compassionate Holistic Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about treating the whole person with respect and honor. This means being empathetic, compassionate, encouraging, validating and accepting of each individual I come in contact with. One of my biggest joys is working with children 7+ and adolescents. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (physical/sexual, emotional and/or medical), behavioral issues, grief, stress, the effects of divorce/separation, and school related issues. I help build coping strategies, self esteem, social competence and resilience.
Hello! I am the founder and owner of Compassionate Holistic Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about treating the whole person with respect and honor. This means being empathetic, compassionate, encouraging, validating and accepting of each individual I come in contact with. One of my biggest joys is working with children 7+ and adolescents. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (physical/sexual, emotional and/or medical), behavioral issues, grief, stress, the effects of divorce/separation, and school related issues. I help build coping strategies, self esteem, social competence and resilience.
(331) 215-6994 View (331) 215-6994
Photo of Stephanie Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have extensive training working with individuals who struggle with a range of anxiety symptoms, and diagnoses especially trauma. In my years of practice, I have noticed that many clients lack trust in themselves and the ability to find a positive sense of self. People just want to understand themselves and become more comfortable with how they handle daily life stressors and others. To achieve this goal individuals need support with recognizing triggers and utilizing appropriate coping skills to reduce the negative responses to those triggers.
I have extensive training working with individuals who struggle with a range of anxiety symptoms, and diagnoses especially trauma. In my years of practice, I have noticed that many clients lack trust in themselves and the ability to find a positive sense of self. People just want to understand themselves and become more comfortable with how they handle daily life stressors and others. To achieve this goal individuals need support with recognizing triggers and utilizing appropriate coping skills to reduce the negative responses to those triggers.
(773) 570-2248 View (773) 570-2248
Photo of Kate Dawson, MSW, RYT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Dawson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
The weight of the world can be unbearably heavy to carry alone. You deserve someone who can help make it feel easier to hold. Kate is experienced in working with children, young adults, & families navigating various stressors, life transitions, and emotional challenges. Kate deeply values her clients' lived experiences and understands how stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, and other difficulties can manifest, making everyday life feel challenging, if not impossible. It can be hard to reach out for help, especially when it seems like things could be worse. Remember—there's always room for things to get better, too!
The weight of the world can be unbearably heavy to carry alone. You deserve someone who can help make it feel easier to hold. Kate is experienced in working with children, young adults, & families navigating various stressors, life transitions, and emotional challenges. Kate deeply values her clients' lived experiences and understands how stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, and other difficulties can manifest, making everyday life feel challenging, if not impossible. It can be hard to reach out for help, especially when it seems like things could be worse. Remember—there's always room for things to get better, too!
(773) 850-3544 View (773) 850-3544
Photo of Robert John Zagar - Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional, PhD, MPH, Psychologist
Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
(312) 266-3411 View (312) 266-3411
Photo of Doris N Ayala, PhD, MJ, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doris N Ayala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MJ, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have extensive experience in helping individuals of many backgrounds rise above the inevitable challenges of life. I have assisted people just like you to access and utilize the personal, emotional/mental, and spiritual coping skills that help individuals, couples and families address issues that cause inner pain and turmoil. I have a PhD in Clinical Social Work, a Masters in Jurisprudence both from Loyola University and a AM from the University of Chicago. I am licensed in Illinois, Arizona and Puerto Rico providing in-person (depending on my residence at the time) and Telehealth sessions.
I have extensive experience in helping individuals of many backgrounds rise above the inevitable challenges of life. I have assisted people just like you to access and utilize the personal, emotional/mental, and spiritual coping skills that help individuals, couples and families address issues that cause inner pain and turmoil. I have a PhD in Clinical Social Work, a Masters in Jurisprudence both from Loyola University and a AM from the University of Chicago. I am licensed in Illinois, Arizona and Puerto Rico providing in-person (depending on my residence at the time) and Telehealth sessions.
(708) 394-7243 View (708) 394-7243
Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT) Therapists

Does parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) work?

PCIT is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to be effective across domains, including for children with behavioral problems, those on the autism spectrum, and those who have experienced early childhood trauma. Further, studies have found that the skills developed through PCIT benefit not only the child in therapy but also siblings, as the parent internalizes lessons learned in sessions and is able to incorporate them into interactions with other family members.

How long does PCIT last?

The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and treatment lasts, on average, between 12 and 20 sessions. Factors that influence treatment duration include how regularly a client attends treatment, how much progress is achieved between sessions, the particular skills that need development, and the extent to which the parent and therapist see improvement.

Can PCIT be done online?

PCIT is among the therapy types best suited for video sessions. Therapists are able to communicate with parents with essentially the same ease, and by observing the parent and child at home in their normal environment, the therapist may gain additional insight into their interactions, as the child will have their normal toys and may feel more comfortable and act more naturally than they would in a therapist’s room.

Does PCIT help parents?

In addition to the skills parents develop through the treatment, PCIT has also been shown to reduce frustration, stress, and depression in parents and promote confidence and a sense of calm when dealing with their children. The desired outcomes of PCIT include a reduction in defiant and aggressive behavior by children and an improvement in communicating their feelings productively, complying with parental instruction, and behaving according to parents’ rules. Growth in these areas can be a relief for parents.