Behavioral Issues Therapists in Downers Grove, IL

Photo of Aditi Tunstall, LPC, intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aditi Tunstall
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, intern
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I offer individual and family sessions for concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, ADHD, Autism, family and relationship conflict, and grief/loss.
I offer individual and family sessions for concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, ADHD, Autism, family and relationship conflict, and grief/loss.
(630) 552-6833 View (630) 552-6833
Photo of Karla Rodriguez, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karla Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Karla recognizes the many struggles clients experience and how therapy can be intimidating. She strives to make all her patients feel welcome and safe with her warm and comforting presence. She believes all clients are unique and she is willing to meet them halfway on their journey to healing. Karla is a Master's graduate from Roosevelt University where she obtained her Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills and enhanced them while studying and being an intern. Additionally, Karla is bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English and is comfortable providing therapy in either language.
Karla recognizes the many struggles clients experience and how therapy can be intimidating. She strives to make all her patients feel welcome and safe with her warm and comforting presence. She believes all clients are unique and she is willing to meet them halfway on their journey to healing. Karla is a Master's graduate from Roosevelt University where she obtained her Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills and enhanced them while studying and being an intern. Additionally, Karla is bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English and is comfortable providing therapy in either language.
(331) 320-5981 View (331) 320-5981
Photo of Liz Casaclang-Melo -  , LPC, CADC, SAP, ICADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, SAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
Greater self awareness leads to more effective self-regulation of moods and behavior.
Providing culturally competent and client centered therapy is an important part of my job which is to help you feel safe and heard. I specialize in working with clients who want to understand the emotions and behaviors that impact their daily lives.
Greater self awareness leads to more effective self-regulation of moods and behavior.
Providing culturally competent and client centered therapy is an important part of my job which is to help you feel safe and heard. I specialize in working with clients who want to understand the emotions and behaviors that impact their daily lives.
(331) 481-5271 View (331) 481-5271
Photo of Nicole Cochrane - Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I provide services for a reduced fee to self-paying clients so that those without behavioral health insurance or those who want to maintain privacy from their insurance, can still receive quality counseling at affordable fees.
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
I provide services for a reduced fee to self-paying clients so that those without behavioral health insurance or those who want to maintain privacy from their insurance, can still receive quality counseling at affordable fees.
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
(630) 669-6033 View (630) 669-6033
Photo of Jennifer Logston - Jennifer Logston Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Logston Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am trained in Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Primary Care Behavioral Health.
My approach to therapy is that of a guide, helping people discover their own inner strength so they can make positive changes. Clients say that my laid back demeanor and calming presence allow a safe, relaxing place to talk openly and work through concerns together. While both direct and supportive, I tailor my approach based on the individual needs of each client. Whether child, teen or adult, I feel it is a privilege to help clients find healing and happiness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am trained in Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Primary Care Behavioral Health.
My approach to therapy is that of a guide, helping people discover their own inner strength so they can make positive changes. Clients say that my laid back demeanor and calming presence allow a safe, relaxing place to talk openly and work through concerns together. While both direct and supportive, I tailor my approach based on the individual needs of each client. Whether child, teen or adult, I feel it is a privilege to help clients find healing and happiness.
(630) 504-7017 View (630) 504-7017
Photo of Anthony Arendas, MBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anthony Arendas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MBA
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am excited to meet you! I work with children, adults, individuals, and couple. My goal is to team-up and assist you with whatever mental health concerns you have (depression, anxiety, AD/HD, behavioral issues, and relational problems, etc.). I am seeking a Masters in Clinical Psychology from National Louis University and expect to graduate in May 2025. Currently, I am working as a Mental Health Intern at Balanced Approached Counseling. You can call, text, or email to schedule an appointment today! (My Yorkie, Chupacabra, does not attend sessions)
I am excited to meet you! I work with children, adults, individuals, and couple. My goal is to team-up and assist you with whatever mental health concerns you have (depression, anxiety, AD/HD, behavioral issues, and relational problems, etc.). I am seeking a Masters in Clinical Psychology from National Louis University and expect to graduate in May 2025. Currently, I am working as a Mental Health Intern at Balanced Approached Counseling. You can call, text, or email to schedule an appointment today! (My Yorkie, Chupacabra, does not attend sessions)
(331) 316-6064 View (331) 316-6064
Photo of Carolyn Boyer, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Carolyn Boyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Counseling is a collaborative process in which you should feel supported in navigating life's roadblocks, stressors, and transitions. The counseling relationship is a unique experience that propels individual flourishing by providing a safe and nurturing environment in which you can develop and practice skills to cultivate resiliency and personal growth. I believe in strength-based counseling, in which individual strengths and resources are developed and utilized to facilitate well-being and client collaboration to promote and achieve personal goals. The framework I utilize favors a cognitive approach with behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic interventions to address specific areas of distress.
Counseling is a collaborative process in which you should feel supported in navigating life's roadblocks, stressors, and transitions. The counseling relationship is a unique experience that propels individual flourishing by providing a safe and nurturing environment in which you can develop and practice skills to cultivate resiliency and personal growth. I believe in strength-based counseling, in which individual strengths and resources are developed and utilized to facilitate well-being and client collaboration to promote and achieve personal goals. The framework I utilize favors a cognitive approach with behavioral, mindfulness, and psychodynamic interventions to address specific areas of distress.
(630) 473-9363 x5 View (630) 473-9363 x5
Photo of Dr. Don Feeney - Consulting Psychological Services, PC, PhD, CADC, NLP, Psychologist
Consulting Psychological Services, PC
Psychologist, PhD, CADC, NLP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused on facilitating meaningful change for problem resolution.
Valuing client uniqueness means utilizing advanced, empathic interventions for self-acceptance in working through anxiety, panic, depression, trauma and attaining emotional regulation. Rebalancing distorted beliefs assist clients' relief of anger, guilt, shame, self-sabotage. Differentiation & specifically designed working-through processes reflect maximizing unique client traits! Each client is identified as unique in their needs with subjective emotional experiences and cognitive structures requiring specific, individualized treatment plans and strategic interventions. These are tailored to facilitate optimum therapeutic progress.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused on facilitating meaningful change for problem resolution.
Valuing client uniqueness means utilizing advanced, empathic interventions for self-acceptance in working through anxiety, panic, depression, trauma and attaining emotional regulation. Rebalancing distorted beliefs assist clients' relief of anger, guilt, shame, self-sabotage. Differentiation & specifically designed working-through processes reflect maximizing unique client traits! Each client is identified as unique in their needs with subjective emotional experiences and cognitive structures requiring specific, individualized treatment plans and strategic interventions. These are tailored to facilitate optimum therapeutic progress.
(872) 205-3810 View (872) 205-3810
Photo of Nicole Marie Wiesman, MA, LCPC
Nicole Marie Wiesman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I believe in creating a safe space for families by drawing from my tapestry of experiences and training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, and family systems therapy. While I enjoy working with individuals, family work allows me to experience the dynamics in real-time and opportunities to improve familial relationships. Whether unpacking generational traumas or navigating communication barriers, I'm here every step to support you with warmth and humor. I also specialize in working with adolescents and families currently navigating school refusal and chronic absenteeism.
I believe in creating a safe space for families by drawing from my tapestry of experiences and training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, and family systems therapy. While I enjoy working with individuals, family work allows me to experience the dynamics in real-time and opportunities to improve familial relationships. Whether unpacking generational traumas or navigating communication barriers, I'm here every step to support you with warmth and humor. I also specialize in working with adolescents and families currently navigating school refusal and chronic absenteeism.
(331) 334-2562 View (331) 334-2562
Photo of C Meghan Jacobson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C Meghan Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
I am here to partner with you to tackle emotional and behavioral concerns with you and your child, utilizing skills from my combined 12 years as a teacher and now as a therapist.
Are you having a hard time connecting with your child or watching them struggle? The challenges youth have to navigate today are unique and complicated. Many of my clients are between the ages of 6-18, or parents of kids this age. Many suffer from anxiety, depression, family divorce, thoughts of self harm, oppositional defiant disorder, social/educational concerns at school, etc. Typically I meet with the child and then bring in the parent for the end of session to review and talk action plans/next steps. By working collaboratively with youth and their parents, we can work together to repair relationships and develop strong bonds.
I am here to partner with you to tackle emotional and behavioral concerns with you and your child, utilizing skills from my combined 12 years as a teacher and now as a therapist.
Are you having a hard time connecting with your child or watching them struggle? The challenges youth have to navigate today are unique and complicated. Many of my clients are between the ages of 6-18, or parents of kids this age. Many suffer from anxiety, depression, family divorce, thoughts of self harm, oppositional defiant disorder, social/educational concerns at school, etc. Typically I meet with the child and then bring in the parent for the end of session to review and talk action plans/next steps. By working collaboratively with youth and their parents, we can work together to repair relationships and develop strong bonds.
(630) 352-3504 View (630) 352-3504
Photo of Gabrielle T. Abogado, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Gabrielle T. Abogado
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I also use a variety of therapies and techniques specializing in client centered therapy, mindfulness, CBT, EFT, DBT, solution focused, narrative, and behavioral therapy.
I am here to support and promote mental health and healing the whole you by providing psychotherapy to you in a collaborative and therapeutic environment. When you are experiencing mental or emotional distress or personal difficulties I am here to help you overcome those challenges. As we build a strong therapeutic relationship I will help you learn how to manage and cope with emotional distress, trauma/PTSD, managing anxiety, anger management, self-image, depression, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, addiction, life changes, eating disorders, and/or crisis management.
I also use a variety of therapies and techniques specializing in client centered therapy, mindfulness, CBT, EFT, DBT, solution focused, narrative, and behavioral therapy.
I am here to support and promote mental health and healing the whole you by providing psychotherapy to you in a collaborative and therapeutic environment. When you are experiencing mental or emotional distress or personal difficulties I am here to help you overcome those challenges. As we build a strong therapeutic relationship I will help you learn how to manage and cope with emotional distress, trauma/PTSD, managing anxiety, anger management, self-image, depression, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, addiction, life changes, eating disorders, and/or crisis management.
(630) 556-8546 View (630) 556-8546
Photo of Kathryn Berry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
My specialty is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
My ideal client is anyone who experiences overwhelming emotions. I continue to work with clients living with mental illness and substance abuse, especially those who want to engage in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and those that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that we are all doing the best we can in any given moment, and I hope to help clients to become better equipped to improve the moment through learning new skills.
My specialty is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
My ideal client is anyone who experiences overwhelming emotions. I continue to work with clients living with mental illness and substance abuse, especially those who want to engage in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and those that are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe that we are all doing the best we can in any given moment, and I hope to help clients to become better equipped to improve the moment through learning new skills.
(630) 716-9311 View (630) 716-9311
Photo of Amanda M Beedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda M Beedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
(773) 877-3143 View (773) 877-3143
Photo of Kelly A Fetherling - AMB Behavioral Health Prof. Corp., LCSW, LSW, DBTC, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
AMB Behavioral Health Prof. Corp.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, DBTC, PEL
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
My therapeutic purpose is committed to helping people suffering from everyday life-stressors such as relationship problems, family conflicts, work issues, behavior problems in children and adolescents as well as more complex mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My goal is to help others find empowerment and self-determination through solutions such as self-care, self-acceptance and effective modalities for change to help resolve problems. My services are aimed at meeting each individual where they are currently at in their process of changing and growing towards self-improvement.
My therapeutic purpose is committed to helping people suffering from everyday life-stressors such as relationship problems, family conflicts, work issues, behavior problems in children and adolescents as well as more complex mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My goal is to help others find empowerment and self-determination through solutions such as self-care, self-acceptance and effective modalities for change to help resolve problems. My services are aimed at meeting each individual where they are currently at in their process of changing and growing towards self-improvement.
(331) 260-9634 View (331) 260-9634
Photo of Annmarie Schening, MSW,  LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annmarie Schening
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Welcome! My name is Annmarie, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. I earned my Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certificate (CADC) as well as my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. I am trained in Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and Internal family systems (IFS). Using these treatment modalities, I will work with you to identify and achieve your goals. As a therapist, my job is to guide and empower you on your journey.
Welcome! My name is Annmarie, a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. I earned my Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certificate (CADC) as well as my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. I am trained in Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and Internal family systems (IFS). Using these treatment modalities, I will work with you to identify and achieve your goals. As a therapist, my job is to guide and empower you on your journey.
(331) 267-6356 View (331) 267-6356
Photo of Aimee Koerner-Frank - Vine Counseling Center, LLC, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Vine Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
We are culturally attuned and supportive of the intellectual, behavioral, and emotional needs of diverse groups, including those with neurodivergence.
Our team of licensed therapists offers a comprehensive range of services. With offices in Naperville, Downers Grove, and Aurora, we also extend telehealth services. We cater to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Our therapists assist individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, body image issues, eating disorders, and other complex mental health conditions. Additionally, we have specialist' adept at addressing childhood concerns such as school anxiety/refusal, sensory regulation, educational/academic support, and toileting, among others.
We are culturally attuned and supportive of the intellectual, behavioral, and emotional needs of diverse groups, including those with neurodivergence.
Our team of licensed therapists offers a comprehensive range of services. With offices in Naperville, Downers Grove, and Aurora, we also extend telehealth services. We cater to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Our therapists assist individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, body image issues, eating disorders, and other complex mental health conditions. Additionally, we have specialist' adept at addressing childhood concerns such as school anxiety/refusal, sensory regulation, educational/academic support, and toileting, among others.
(773) 345-7087 View (773) 345-7087
Photo of Jessica K Paganis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica K Paganis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
As a clinical social worker I am committed to providing therapeutic interventions that optimize the social and emotional well being of individuals, children and families. Support services are tailored to each individual while integrating the unique dynamics that define each persons social and family system. I support families and individuals through creating unique shifts in mindset, creating family oriented goals that increase positive behavior and social cohesiveness, provide Individual & Couples Counseling, and IEP Advocacy & Consultation.
As a clinical social worker I am committed to providing therapeutic interventions that optimize the social and emotional well being of individuals, children and families. Support services are tailored to each individual while integrating the unique dynamics that define each persons social and family system. I support families and individuals through creating unique shifts in mindset, creating family oriented goals that increase positive behavior and social cohesiveness, provide Individual & Couples Counseling, and IEP Advocacy & Consultation.
(630) 338-0578 View (630) 338-0578
Photo of Sarah Prendergast, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Prendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
My therapy modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Client Centered, and Strength Based practices.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
My therapy modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Client Centered, and Strength Based practices.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
(630) 984-1610 x1 View (630) 984-1610 x1
Photo of Jennifer Duff, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Duff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I dedicate my practice to the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, families, college and graduate students. Psychotherapy services are implemented utilizing current research-based concepts and practice models, developed to meet the specific needs of each individual. I work with a wide range of diagnostic concerns including depression, anxiety, attention deficits and adjustment. Additional areas include behavior management, self-esteem, perfectionism, loss and grieving, relationships and divorce.I specialize in comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational evaluations including assessments for cognitive, emotional and personality functioning. I also provide evaluations for gifted children, ADHD and Learning Disabilities.
I dedicate my practice to the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, families, college and graduate students. Psychotherapy services are implemented utilizing current research-based concepts and practice models, developed to meet the specific needs of each individual. I work with a wide range of diagnostic concerns including depression, anxiety, attention deficits and adjustment. Additional areas include behavior management, self-esteem, perfectionism, loss and grieving, relationships and divorce.I specialize in comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational evaluations including assessments for cognitive, emotional and personality functioning. I also provide evaluations for gifted children, ADHD and Learning Disabilities.
(630) 748-8287 View (630) 748-8287
Photo of Julie E. Zonca, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie E. Zonca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I specialize in working with adults wrestling with ADHD, anxiety, self-esteem, peer relationships, coping skills, behavioral issues, and social interactions.
There are times of life when emotional pain is overwhelming. During those times, working with a therapist brings relief, and helps those struggling to reach their potential. I specialize in providing that kind of help. For more than a decade I've counseled people of all ages, helping empower them to rely on personal strengths, discover a sense of purpose, and appreciate a greater sense of self worth. It's humbling to witness people demonstrate resilience when overcoming difficult issues. In my practice I guide clients as they discern how to be and feel their best.
I specialize in working with adults wrestling with ADHD, anxiety, self-esteem, peer relationships, coping skills, behavioral issues, and social interactions.
There are times of life when emotional pain is overwhelming. During those times, working with a therapist brings relief, and helps those struggling to reach their potential. I specialize in providing that kind of help. For more than a decade I've counseled people of all ages, helping empower them to rely on personal strengths, discover a sense of purpose, and appreciate a greater sense of self worth. It's humbling to witness people demonstrate resilience when overcoming difficult issues. In my practice I guide clients as they discern how to be and feel their best.
(630) 360-8071 View (630) 360-8071

See more therapy options for Downers Grove

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.