Behavioral Issues Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of LaRia Cochran, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaRia Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60652
My clients consist of children and families that have difficulties with emotional and behavioral problems. In which theses problems may be seen at home, school and the community. So it is ideal for me to be able to assist families with developing new plans, problem solve and work on building healthier attachment and relationships. Change can be difficult and good at the same time. Working on better managing a child behavioral and emotional concerns are my priority.
My clients consist of children and families that have difficulties with emotional and behavioral problems. In which theses problems may be seen at home, school and the community. So it is ideal for me to be able to assist families with developing new plans, problem solve and work on building healthier attachment and relationships. Change can be difficult and good at the same time. Working on better managing a child behavioral and emotional concerns are my priority.
(313) 307-4343 View (313) 307-4343
Photo of Sarah Seebold, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Seebold
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I utilize a therapy lens that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and client-centered therapy.
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
I utilize a therapy lens that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral theory (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and client-centered therapy.
I have been able to work closely with children, adolescents, and adults to treat a wide variety of concerns ranging from mood and developmental disorders, chronic pain, substance abuse, trauma, hoarding, family stress, academic distress, and academic avoidance. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment for clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, those who hold multiple identities, and those who have a diverse cultural background. I strive to support others to examine how these identities may impact the way they interact with the world around them.
(708) 726-5534 View (708) 726-5534
Photo of Judy Kramer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
If you are looking for an experienced therapist who is compassionate, insightful, positive, supportive, humorous and directive, then contact me. In addition to teaching coping skills and parenting skills, I help clients to better understand themselves and to fully accept themselves so that true joy can be found. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse, behavioral disorders and am a trauma informed therapist. I see ages 7 upward for either individual or family counseling. These sessions can be remote or in-person at either the Ravenswood neighborhood office in Chicago or at another location in Lincolnwood, IL.
If you are looking for an experienced therapist who is compassionate, insightful, positive, supportive, humorous and directive, then contact me. In addition to teaching coping skills and parenting skills, I help clients to better understand themselves and to fully accept themselves so that true joy can be found. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse, behavioral disorders and am a trauma informed therapist. I see ages 7 upward for either individual or family counseling. These sessions can be remote or in-person at either the Ravenswood neighborhood office in Chicago or at another location in Lincolnwood, IL.
(872) 245-0180 View (872) 245-0180
D Gordon & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Adults with painful anxiety and depression can find relief through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, survivors of trauma may benefit from trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and those struggling with ambivalence can make changes with the support of Motivational Interviewing.
My practice supports adults who are experiencing acute and/or chronic distress. For some, events like divorce, trauma, loss, and adjustment to a blended family spark symptoms. As a result, depression, anxiety, angry outbursts, mood swings, isolation, addiction, and vocational difficulties may emerge. Many others have been living with the pain of recurrent anxiety and depression for decades. I support people as they work through these difficulties. I believe in people's capacity to grow, change, and move towards self-determined goals.
Adults with painful anxiety and depression can find relief through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, survivors of trauma may benefit from trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and those struggling with ambivalence can make changes with the support of Motivational Interviewing.
My practice supports adults who are experiencing acute and/or chronic distress. For some, events like divorce, trauma, loss, and adjustment to a blended family spark symptoms. As a result, depression, anxiety, angry outbursts, mood swings, isolation, addiction, and vocational difficulties may emerge. Many others have been living with the pain of recurrent anxiety and depression for decades. I support people as they work through these difficulties. I believe in people's capacity to grow, change, and move towards self-determined goals.
(312) 614-1613 View (312) 614-1613
Photo of Nadjeh Awadallah, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nadjeh Awadallah
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
My clients have found a great deal of empowerment and success when using intervention exercises that have a CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Theory) focus.
It is important to talk through the different therapy strategies with a client to determine what suits them and meets their expectations of treatment. I like using different modalities of treatment (like Dialectical Behavioral Treatment, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Client-Centered Interventions) and feel it is important to educate the client on these options so they can decide on what will work well for them. Regardless of the treatment modality they choose, setting realistic treatment goals is so important and will allow clients to see change as they work through treatment.
My clients have found a great deal of empowerment and success when using intervention exercises that have a CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Theory) focus.
It is important to talk through the different therapy strategies with a client to determine what suits them and meets their expectations of treatment. I like using different modalities of treatment (like Dialectical Behavioral Treatment, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Client-Centered Interventions) and feel it is important to educate the client on these options so they can decide on what will work well for them. Regardless of the treatment modality they choose, setting realistic treatment goals is so important and will allow clients to see change as they work through treatment.
(309) 886-6319 View (309) 886-6319
Photo of Gregory Concodora, MS Ed, PsyD, Psychologist
Gregory Concodora
Psychologist, MS Ed, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Not accepting new clients
I've worked with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with significant emotional and behavioral challenges for 16 years and have found that no matter the difficulty things can improve with hard work. Whether one's goal is emotion regulation, behavior change, or the exploration and cultivation of identity and meaning, the use of a therapeutic relationship based on honesty, authenticity, and mutual respect can have a profound impact on one's life course. While this work is challenging it can be life changing, allowing a person to develop their talents and gifts in ways that enrich their lives and the lives of others.
I've worked with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with significant emotional and behavioral challenges for 16 years and have found that no matter the difficulty things can improve with hard work. Whether one's goal is emotion regulation, behavior change, or the exploration and cultivation of identity and meaning, the use of a therapeutic relationship based on honesty, authenticity, and mutual respect can have a profound impact on one's life course. While this work is challenging it can be life changing, allowing a person to develop their talents and gifts in ways that enrich their lives and the lives of others.
(718) 557-9079 View (718) 557-9079
Photo of Alan P Childs - Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan P. Childs and Associates
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
My team offers specialized services in psychological testing, developmental disabilities, child behavioral intervention, and mindfulness-based treatments.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
My team offers specialized services in psychological testing, developmental disabilities, child behavioral intervention, and mindfulness-based treatments.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in assisting children, adults, and families in overcoming personal and environmental challenges. My approach to counseling is interactive and respectful, aimed at helping you discover the best solutions in a safe and trusting environment. With expertise in individual and marital therapy, divorce, and child custody hearings, I frequently serve as an expert witness in divorce proceedings concerning the well-being of the child. Our commitment to providing exceptional, empathetic, and compassionate care is at the core of our practice's success and client well-being.
(708) 501-7075 View (708) 501-7075
Photo of Liz Casline, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liz Casline
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in mental health treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, and behavior problems. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach, and have extensive training using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). My goal is to provide clients with a supportive space to reach their goals by developing a deeper understanding of emotions and build effective coping skills. I also work closely with parents and provide guidance on how to best support their child.
I specialize in mental health treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, and behavior problems. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach, and have extensive training using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). My goal is to provide clients with a supportive space to reach their goals by developing a deeper understanding of emotions and build effective coping skills. I also work closely with parents and provide guidance on how to best support their child.
(312) 967-1456 View (312) 967-1456
Photo of Christa Eastburn, CADC, C-DPT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Christa Eastburn
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC, C-DPT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling like your own thoughts and actions are out of your control? Is it difficult for you to regulate your emotions or engage with others in consistent and effective ways? Are there behaviors, thoughts, or substances that are getting in the way of you living as your authentic self? DBT & Executive Function Skills focus on Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, & Interpersonal Effectiveness to help build impulse control, healthy relationships, behavior redirection, attention span, time management, & organized thoughts.
Are you tired of feeling like your own thoughts and actions are out of your control? Is it difficult for you to regulate your emotions or engage with others in consistent and effective ways? Are there behaviors, thoughts, or substances that are getting in the way of you living as your authentic self? DBT & Executive Function Skills focus on Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, & Interpersonal Effectiveness to help build impulse control, healthy relationships, behavior redirection, attention span, time management, & organized thoughts.
(773) 360-5476 View (773) 360-5476
Photo of Gerard David Widmann, PsyD, Psychologist
Gerard David Widmann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Psychotherapy is a type of behavioral intervention that has been proven to help people with many different types of behavioral and emotional difficulties.
Are you experiencing changes in thinking abilities, personality, or behavior? Do you feel as though you are a prisoner of your emotions that are intense and difficult to manage? Do you think you or a loved one might have a learning disability? Are you struggling to effectively cope with your life circumstances? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone and you came to the right place. Whether you are seeking a neuropsychological evaluation or psychotherapy, you deserve the high-quality and personalized care that I offer. Together, we can achieve your goals so you can live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
Psychotherapy is a type of behavioral intervention that has been proven to help people with many different types of behavioral and emotional difficulties.
Are you experiencing changes in thinking abilities, personality, or behavior? Do you feel as though you are a prisoner of your emotions that are intense and difficult to manage? Do you think you or a loved one might have a learning disability? Are you struggling to effectively cope with your life circumstances? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone and you came to the right place. Whether you are seeking a neuropsychological evaluation or psychotherapy, you deserve the high-quality and personalized care that I offer. Together, we can achieve your goals so you can live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
(708) 419-3695 View (708) 419-3695
Photo of Justine Olson, PsyD, Psychologist
Justine Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In my work with children I have specialized training in working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral difficulties and related parenting issues.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards making a commitment to improve your life through the process of therapy. It is so important to find someone that you feel is the right fit for you, or for your loved one. I enjoy working with individuals at all stages of life, but practice mostly with children, adolescents, young adults and families. Regardless of the issue, I am committed to helping you or your loved one discover the best parts of yourself so that you can move towards healthy changes for the future.
In my work with children I have specialized training in working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral difficulties and related parenting issues.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards making a commitment to improve your life through the process of therapy. It is so important to find someone that you feel is the right fit for you, or for your loved one. I enjoy working with individuals at all stages of life, but practice mostly with children, adolescents, young adults and families. Regardless of the issue, I am committed to helping you or your loved one discover the best parts of yourself so that you can move towards healthy changes for the future.
(847) 558-6237 View (847) 558-6237
Photo of Shakita Read, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shakita Read
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to improve mood, reduce anxieties, and work through fears and worries that get in the way of their ability to live life to the fullest.
Hello, I am a professional counselor in Chicago with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. As a young professional and mother, I understand the day-to-day stressors women face as they seek to balance careers and family life. I bring personal and professional experience to the therapeutic relationship where my goal as a clinician is to empower individuals to overcome challenges, enabling them to control the narrative of their lives and to be the author of their own stories. Call 24/7 to schedule or request an appointment online https://intouchmindhealth.com/request-an-appointment. I have Saturday appointments available.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to improve mood, reduce anxieties, and work through fears and worries that get in the way of their ability to live life to the fullest.
Hello, I am a professional counselor in Chicago with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. As a young professional and mother, I understand the day-to-day stressors women face as they seek to balance careers and family life. I bring personal and professional experience to the therapeutic relationship where my goal as a clinician is to empower individuals to overcome challenges, enabling them to control the narrative of their lives and to be the author of their own stories. Call 24/7 to schedule or request an appointment online https://intouchmindhealth.com/request-an-appointment. I have Saturday appointments available.
(872) 242-2152 View (872) 242-2152
Photo of Katrina Gainey, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Gainey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
Children convey their needs and challenges through their behavior. This can often leave parents feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about how to offer effective support. My approach involves working closely with the children and parents to help them uncover the underlying meaning behind these behaviors. I work with the child to help improve their emotional regulation skills. Together, we engage in thoughtful reflection on the dynamics within their relationships, and interactions. This effort is focused on improving the overall mental health and well-being of the child, as well as strengthening their familial bonds.
Children convey their needs and challenges through their behavior. This can often leave parents feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about how to offer effective support. My approach involves working closely with the children and parents to help them uncover the underlying meaning behind these behaviors. I work with the child to help improve their emotional regulation skills. Together, we engage in thoughtful reflection on the dynamics within their relationships, and interactions. This effort is focused on improving the overall mental health and well-being of the child, as well as strengthening their familial bonds.
(312) 967-1769 View (312) 967-1769
Photo of Allison Lobel, PsyD, Psychologist
Allison Lobel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In a warm, nurturing, and playful setting I strive to understand your child's social, emotional, behavioral, and developmental functioning.
I appreciate the long and difficult journey one can sometimes experience prior to making the decision to seek out the support of a therapist. Therapy can offer a hopeful means of prevention and intervention and facilitate a healthy way of responding to challenging behaviors and complex developmental issues. With specialized training working with children, adolescents, and families, I am committed to collaborating with you throughout the therapy process in order to work towards the desired progress and growth for you and your family.
In a warm, nurturing, and playful setting I strive to understand your child's social, emotional, behavioral, and developmental functioning.
I appreciate the long and difficult journey one can sometimes experience prior to making the decision to seek out the support of a therapist. Therapy can offer a hopeful means of prevention and intervention and facilitate a healthy way of responding to challenging behaviors and complex developmental issues. With specialized training working with children, adolescents, and families, I am committed to collaborating with you throughout the therapy process in order to work towards the desired progress and growth for you and your family.
(773) 309-4696 x04 View (773) 309-4696 x04
Photo of Sharonslaba 'Sharon' Davila, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharonslaba 'Sharon' Davila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Is your child struggling with mood or behavior issues? Is your young one experiencing school or family stress? Do you feel like you have tried everything, but nothing seems to be working? You are not alone. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and together we can work to understand and address your child's behavioral needs. All behavior has meaning and together we can work to understand the meaning behind your child's behavior. We will work as a TEAM to help you enjoy being a parent again.
Is your child struggling with mood or behavior issues? Is your young one experiencing school or family stress? Do you feel like you have tried everything, but nothing seems to be working? You are not alone. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and together we can work to understand and address your child's behavioral needs. All behavior has meaning and together we can work to understand the meaning behind your child's behavior. We will work as a TEAM to help you enjoy being a parent again.
(773) 364-6630 View (773) 364-6630
Photo of Justin Kozak, LCPC
Justin Kozak
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
(815) 362-1498 View (815) 362-1498
Photo of Erin Liebman, MEd, EdS, NCC, NCSP, Counselor
Erin Liebman
Counselor, MEd, EdS, NCC, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Erin Liebman Inc. offers almost two decades of experience working with youth, teens, and young adults. We use an eclectic orientation with an emphasis on behavioral, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy. Clients examine thoughts and behaviors in hopes of engendering positive changes. While the client is our primary focus, we collaborate with support systems to foster an environment steeped in opportunities for growth. Our professional goal is to assist clients in developing the life long skills necessary to become happy, healthy, productive members within their communities.
Erin Liebman Inc. offers almost two decades of experience working with youth, teens, and young adults. We use an eclectic orientation with an emphasis on behavioral, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy. Clients examine thoughts and behaviors in hopes of engendering positive changes. While the client is our primary focus, we collaborate with support systems to foster an environment steeped in opportunities for growth. Our professional goal is to assist clients in developing the life long skills necessary to become happy, healthy, productive members within their communities.
(312) 614-0671 View (312) 614-0671
Photo of Sally Weld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Weld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in psychotherapy for trauma and stress-related disorders, emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioral conditions and parental support. I have a passion for supporting people through challenging experiences towards growth, healing and change. I believe in the importance of emotional regulation and psychological safety while processing through difficult topics. I also believe that we often are hurt in relationship to others and, as a result, heal in relationship to others.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in psychotherapy for trauma and stress-related disorders, emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioral conditions and parental support. I have a passion for supporting people through challenging experiences towards growth, healing and change. I believe in the importance of emotional regulation and psychological safety while processing through difficult topics. I also believe that we often are hurt in relationship to others and, as a result, heal in relationship to others.
(312) 854-7242 View (312) 854-7242
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 Cassandra Howard - South Loop Counseling Services , LCPC, Counselor
South Loop Counseling Services
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), an evidenced based treatment model that uses a variety of techniques to help patients change their cognitions, behavior, mood and physiology.
For over the past 20 years, I have enjoyed assisting in putting together the pieces of my client's puzzles. I strive in putting the needs of my clients 1st! Focusing on evidenced based treatments; my advanced trainings have equipped me to use therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, child-parent psychotherapy and many more. I have an extensive background in treating mood disorders, behavioral modifications, emotional dysregulation,PTSD and other disturbances. I tailor my practice to uphold the confidentiality of my clients and I strive to give my clients the best service possible!!!!
I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), an evidenced based treatment model that uses a variety of techniques to help patients change their cognitions, behavior, mood and physiology.
For over the past 20 years, I have enjoyed assisting in putting together the pieces of my client's puzzles. I strive in putting the needs of my clients 1st! Focusing on evidenced based treatments; my advanced trainings have equipped me to use therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy, child-parent psychotherapy and many more. I have an extensive background in treating mood disorders, behavioral modifications, emotional dysregulation,PTSD and other disturbances. I tailor my practice to uphold the confidentiality of my clients and I strive to give my clients the best service possible!!!!
(773) 657-6052 View (773) 657-6052
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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.