Behavioral Issues Therapists in Evanston, IL

Photo of Chava Alpert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chava Alpert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
With over 25 years of experience working with children and their families I bring a wealth of knowledge and resources to my work. My experience includes helping children improve communication and problem solving skills, cope with anxiety, and building confidence in relationships. The family work focus's on parenting and communication skills and strengthening relationships. In addition to individual and family therapy I have expertise in social skills groups for children. I help children with no formal diagnosis who experience social and behavioral challenges as well as children with learning disabilities, ADHD, and Anxiety.
With over 25 years of experience working with children and their families I bring a wealth of knowledge and resources to my work. My experience includes helping children improve communication and problem solving skills, cope with anxiety, and building confidence in relationships. The family work focus's on parenting and communication skills and strengthening relationships. In addition to individual and family therapy I have expertise in social skills groups for children. I help children with no formal diagnosis who experience social and behavioral challenges as well as children with learning disabilities, ADHD, and Anxiety.
(773) 340-4234 View (773) 340-4234
Photo of Dr. Estelle Oyer, PsyD , Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Estelle Oyer
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I work with children, teenagers, and young adults who have survived traumatic experiences or are dealing with behavioral-based, emotional disorders, school stress, identity formation, and relationship concerns. I value incorporating parents and caregivers in their child's therapy, as well as working with families through divorce, grief, and life transitions. In addition, I perform diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages including cognitive, emotional, social, and personality assessments that can be used to inform therapeutic intervention and gain resources outside of therapy.
I work with children, teenagers, and young adults who have survived traumatic experiences or are dealing with behavioral-based, emotional disorders, school stress, identity formation, and relationship concerns. I value incorporating parents and caregivers in their child's therapy, as well as working with families through divorce, grief, and life transitions. In addition, I perform diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages including cognitive, emotional, social, and personality assessments that can be used to inform therapeutic intervention and gain resources outside of therapy.
(847) 380-8756 View (847) 380-8756
Photo of Aditi Tunstall, LPC, intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aditi Tunstall
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, intern
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I offer individual, couples, and families sessions for concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, ADHD, Autism, family and relationship conflict, and grief/loss.
I offer individual, couples, and families 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 Kannan Vinaitheerthan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kannan Vinaitheerthan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and a collaborative problem solving approach.
Hi there, my name is Kannan Vinaitheerthan. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker typically practicing in Wilmette, Illinois and currently providing therapy virtually as well as outdoors weather permitting. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide individual and family therapy. I have experience working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school-related problems and more.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and a collaborative problem solving approach.
Hi there, my name is Kannan Vinaitheerthan. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker typically practicing in Wilmette, Illinois and currently providing therapy virtually as well as outdoors weather permitting. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide individual and family therapy. I have experience working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school-related problems and more.
(630) 445-0537 View (630) 445-0537
Photo of Danielle Karcz, MA, LCPC
Danielle Karcz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
For the last few years she has been practicing with individuals and families in a PHP program where she has extensive experience with evidence based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based treatment, motivational interviewing and behavioral activation.
Danielle Karcz is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating adults, adolescents and children with mood, anxiety and adjustment disorders. Danielle has also completed her advanced training for the treatment of Addictions. She holds a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Psychology.
For the last few years she has been practicing with individuals and families in a PHP program where she has extensive experience with evidence based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness based treatment, motivational interviewing and behavioral activation.
Danielle Karcz is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating adults, adolescents and children with mood, anxiety and adjustment disorders. Danielle has also completed her advanced training for the treatment of Addictions. She holds a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Psychology.
(872) 204-1097 View (872) 204-1097
Photo of Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop (Neuropsychology), PhD, Psychologist
Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop (Neuropsychology)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr. Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop is a graduate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a pediatric neuropsychologist with extensive experience working with the pediatric and adolescent population both domestically and internationally. She organizes and conducts positive parenting seminars, psychosocial workshops, and has worked especially with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disability, language disorders, mood disorders, behavioral problems, developmental delays, trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Terry-Ann Adjmul-Hislop is a graduate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a pediatric neuropsychologist with extensive experience working with the pediatric and adolescent population both domestically and internationally. She organizes and conducts positive parenting seminars, psychosocial workshops, and has worked especially with children who have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disability, language disorders, mood disorders, behavioral problems, developmental delays, trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
(224) 257-3898 View (224) 257-3898
Photo of Shakita Read, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shakita Read
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
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 Rachel E Levenfeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel E Levenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
In my practice I strive to make people feel comfortable and safe in both body and mind. Life can be challenging, and sometimes during those challenging times we may forget what it’s like to feel like our true selves or to feel happy. Allow me to help you through this journey. Nobody should have to suffer alone. I have 18 years of clinical experience as a therapist. I work primarily with adults and teens. I utilize a combination of Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as Mindfulness and Meditation in my practice.
In my practice I strive to make people feel comfortable and safe in both body and mind. Life can be challenging, and sometimes during those challenging times we may forget what it’s like to feel like our true selves or to feel happy. Allow me to help you through this journey. Nobody should have to suffer alone. I have 18 years of clinical experience as a therapist. I work primarily with adults and teens. I utilize a combination of Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as Mindfulness and Meditation in my practice.
(773) 741-9697 View (773) 741-9697
Photo of Dr. Breanne Taylor, Postdoc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Breanne Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, Postdoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
(773) 839-2846 View (773) 839-2846
Photo of Lydia Schatzel, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Schatzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I am a Dually-Licensed Clinical Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in children and families along with addiction treatment. I received the Class Act Award from University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago and the Chapter of Merit Award from the American Case Management Association. I combine CBT, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, behavioral analysis, and mindfulness/insight awareness with a client-centered solution-focused approach.
I am a Dually-Licensed Clinical Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in children and families along with addiction treatment. I received the Class Act Award from University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago and the Chapter of Merit Award from the American Case Management Association. I combine CBT, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, behavioral analysis, and mindfulness/insight awareness with a client-centered solution-focused approach.
(312) 702-2191 View (312) 702-2191
Photo of Jerry Zabin, LCSW, CDVP, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jerry Zabin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDVP, ACSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Trained as a cognitive therapist, with a primary certificate in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT).
In practice for over 40 years, I have a great deal of experience with adolescents, adults and couples. Area of specialization working with perpetrators of and family members impacted by domestic violence. Anxiety and life adjustments are also an area of specialty. Retired as high school social worker, I've worked with hundreds of adolescents and families. It is my belief that emotional energy is finite and that helping you in achieving balance can be so very helpful in finding solutions to emotional distress. Jazz trumpet is my avocation and I work to pass along the lessons I have learned relating to persistence and mindfulness.
Trained as a cognitive therapist, with a primary certificate in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT).
In practice for over 40 years, I have a great deal of experience with adolescents, adults and couples. Area of specialization working with perpetrators of and family members impacted by domestic violence. Anxiety and life adjustments are also an area of specialty. Retired as high school social worker, I've worked with hundreds of adolescents and families. It is my belief that emotional energy is finite and that helping you in achieving balance can be so very helpful in finding solutions to emotional distress. Jazz trumpet is my avocation and I work to pass along the lessons I have learned relating to persistence and mindfulness.
(847) 744-8140 View (847) 744-8140
Photo of Gail Grossman, PhD, Psychologist
Gail Grossman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I specialize in helping children and families develop new strategies and coping skills to work through difficult life transitions and overcome emotional and behavioral problems that impede ideal functioning. My expertise is in working with families dealing with sexual abuse and divorce issues. I provide individual and group support for children and adults navigating through the painful process of coping with these issues. Utilizing a family systems approach, I have a collaborative and interactive style and focus on each individual's assets and problem solving strengths. I have worked extensively with the judicial system providing evaluation, mediation,and parenting plans.
I specialize in helping children and families develop new strategies and coping skills to work through difficult life transitions and overcome emotional and behavioral problems that impede ideal functioning. My expertise is in working with families dealing with sexual abuse and divorce issues. I provide individual and group support for children and adults navigating through the painful process of coping with these issues. Utilizing a family systems approach, I have a collaborative and interactive style and focus on each individual's assets and problem solving strengths. I have worked extensively with the judicial system providing evaluation, mediation,and parenting plans.
(847) 379-5483 View (847) 379-5483
Photo of Aaron Cooper, PhD, Psychologist
Aaron Cooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
org/behavioral-health-resources/new-self-esteem-feeling-worthy-inside-out.
I bring 47 years of experience to my work. I earned my doctorate from Loyola University of Chicago in 1977, following a three-year internship at the Loyola Guidance Clinic. Prior to that, I received a Master of Arts in Teaching from Northwestern (1973) and a Bachelor of Arts (cum laude) from Harvard (1972). For 18 years, I was with the department of psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. From 2008 to 2024 I was with the Family Institute at Northwestern, where I wrote the popular Family Tip of the Month and the Couples Tip of the Month and produced the Talking to Kids You Love video collection.
org/behavioral-health-resources/new-self-esteem-feeling-worthy-inside-out.
I bring 47 years of experience to my work. I earned my doctorate from Loyola University of Chicago in 1977, following a three-year internship at the Loyola Guidance Clinic. Prior to that, I received a Master of Arts in Teaching from Northwestern (1973) and a Bachelor of Arts (cum laude) from Harvard (1972). For 18 years, I was with the department of psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. From 2008 to 2024 I was with the Family Institute at Northwestern, where I wrote the popular Family Tip of the Month and the Couples Tip of the Month and produced the Talking to Kids You Love video collection.
(224) 507-7597 View (224) 507-7597
Photo of Ulyana Doko, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ulyana Doko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I treat a variety of different conditions including anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, specific phobias, depression, trauma, behavioral issues in kids, and adjustment to chronic or terminal medical illness.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried or stuck? Do you feel paralyzed by fear? Does your life have no meaning? I am here to guide you and help you learn how to manage your anxiety, tolerate uncertainty, overcome fears, and become brave and motivated in order to establish a strong sense of self and live a more fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe, empathetic and collaborative environment, so that my clients feel heard, valued and understood. I use a holistic approach, encouragement and humor during my sessions and my treatment plans are individualized for each client in order to provide the most effective, evidence-based treatment.
I treat a variety of different conditions including anxiety, selective mutism, OCD, specific phobias, depression, trauma, behavioral issues in kids, and adjustment to chronic or terminal medical illness.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried or stuck? Do you feel paralyzed by fear? Does your life have no meaning? I am here to guide you and help you learn how to manage your anxiety, tolerate uncertainty, overcome fears, and become brave and motivated in order to establish a strong sense of self and live a more fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe, empathetic and collaborative environment, so that my clients feel heard, valued and understood. I use a holistic approach, encouragement and humor during my sessions and my treatment plans are individualized for each client in order to provide the most effective, evidence-based treatment.
(847) 474-9528 View (847) 474-9528
Photo of Steven Neren, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Neren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I use insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
Do you feel unfulfilled, in a rut, sad, anxious or just frustrated and unfulfilled that your not living your life to your full potential? Do you feel dissatisfied with your relationships or with your job or career? Do you feel that there is more to life and that you wish you could get more focused and motivated and have more meaning and purpose in you life? I have helped people with these issues and I feel I can be of help to you as well.
I use insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
Do you feel unfulfilled, in a rut, sad, anxious or just frustrated and unfulfilled that your not living your life to your full potential? Do you feel dissatisfied with your relationships or with your job or career? Do you feel that there is more to life and that you wish you could get more focused and motivated and have more meaning and purpose in you life? I have helped people with these issues and I feel I can be of help to you as well.
(224) 255-4810 x915 View (224) 255-4810 x915
Photo of Kathleen Monahan - Leigh Monahan , PhD, Psychologist
Leigh Monahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr. Leigh Monahan is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and families to empower themselves and to gain concrete skills for achieving optimal social, emotional, behavioral, and academic success. She takes a holistic approach to working with clients, and she values partnering with key stakeholders in the young person’s life. She provides individual and family-focused treatment to address a range of developmental periods and presenting concerns, including young and emerging adults as they navigate the demands of this time period.
Dr. Leigh Monahan is passionate about helping children, adolescents, young adults, and families to empower themselves and to gain concrete skills for achieving optimal social, emotional, behavioral, and academic success. She takes a holistic approach to working with clients, and she values partnering with key stakeholders in the young person’s life. She provides individual and family-focused treatment to address a range of developmental periods and presenting concerns, including young and emerging adults as they navigate the demands of this time period.
(224) 328-3957 View (224) 328-3957
Photo of Tara Nikolich, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Nikolich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Tara holds a B.A. in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Park University. She completed her clinical internship at a PHP/IOP hospital setting in the Chicagoland Area. There, she focused on leading groups for children/adolescents with mood/anxiety disorders and school refusal behavior. Tara is trained in evidence-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This type of treatment empowers her clients to effectively implement coping skills and change maladaptive patterns of thinking.
Tara holds a B.A. in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Park University. She completed her clinical internship at a PHP/IOP hospital setting in the Chicagoland Area. There, she focused on leading groups for children/adolescents with mood/anxiety disorders and school refusal behavior. Tara is trained in evidence-based approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This type of treatment empowers her clients to effectively implement coping skills and change maladaptive patterns of thinking.
(847) 232-6604 View (847) 232-6604
Photo of Shruti Patel, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Shruti Patel
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Therapeutic approaches include utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and Client-centered approaches to treatment.
I believe therapy has a power to HEAL, enhance growth, and obtain inner peace. As a psychotherapist, I strive to empower my clients by building on their own strengths and encouraging insight within a nurturing environment. Together we can identify goals to facilitate growth and healing. My specialties include trauma therapy, domestic violence/sexual assault counseling, substance abuse, and empowerment training. I am experienced in working with clients struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/body image concerns, women's issues, relationship concerns, and troubles with adjustment and life transitions.
Therapeutic approaches include utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and Client-centered approaches to treatment.
I believe therapy has a power to HEAL, enhance growth, and obtain inner peace. As a psychotherapist, I strive to empower my clients by building on their own strengths and encouraging insight within a nurturing environment. Together we can identify goals to facilitate growth and healing. My specialties include trauma therapy, domestic violence/sexual assault counseling, substance abuse, and empowerment training. I am experienced in working with clients struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/body image concerns, women's issues, relationship concerns, and troubles with adjustment and life transitions.
(847) 457-0203 View (847) 457-0203
Photo of Jacqueline Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Jacqueline Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
My approach is integrative, combining psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and family systems perspectives with sensitivity to diversity and culture, and appreciation for each person's unique context, worldview and life experience.
I view psychotherapy as an opportunity for personal growth and greater self-understanding. While it is important to address specific issues in the here and now, often the process can also lead to broader gains in self-awareness and life satisfaction. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I will work with you to address your concerns, overcome obstacles and find greater personal satisfaction.
My approach is integrative, combining psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and family systems perspectives with sensitivity to diversity and culture, and appreciation for each person's unique context, worldview and life experience.
I view psychotherapy as an opportunity for personal growth and greater self-understanding. While it is important to address specific issues in the here and now, often the process can also lead to broader gains in self-awareness and life satisfaction. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I will work with you to address your concerns, overcome obstacles and find greater personal satisfaction.
(847) 744-9050 View (847) 744-9050
Photo of Dori Fujii, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dori Fujii
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
(847) 807-4280 View (847) 807-4280
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.