Behavioral Issues Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL

Photo of Debbie Levine, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
My therapeutic approach includes the use of mindfulness, holistic, spiritual, people centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Life is full of ups and downs, challenges and joys. My passion is to work with individuals (adolescents - seniors) and couples as they navigate their own respective journeys. Whether you are dealing with stress, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, life changes, health or marital issues - being able to help you overcome obstacles as you continue on your path is my goal. No two people experience life the same way, and being able to develop treatment plans and goals to help you be successful is what I find most rewarding.
My therapeutic approach includes the use of mindfulness, holistic, spiritual, people centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Life is full of ups and downs, challenges and joys. My passion is to work with individuals (adolescents - seniors) and couples as they navigate their own respective journeys. Whether you are dealing with stress, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, life changes, health or marital issues - being able to help you overcome obstacles as you continue on your path is my goal. No two people experience life the same way, and being able to develop treatment plans and goals to help you be successful is what I find most rewarding.
(847) 558-6691 View (847) 558-6691
Photo of Karen Robbins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
After originally being trained as a school social worker and working many years at a Behavioral Health Hospital, I have a broad range of experience which gives me the extra training and experience of being able to understand personal struggles.
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
After originally being trained as a school social worker and working many years at a Behavioral Health Hospital, I have a broad range of experience which gives me the extra training and experience of being able to understand personal struggles.
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
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Photo of Yadira Garcia, LSW, MSW, QMHP
Yadira Garcia
LSW, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, life transitions, grief/loss, behavioral issues, domestic violence counseling, self-esteem, and more.
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, life transitions, grief/loss, behavioral issues, domestic violence counseling, self-esteem, and more.
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
(773) 243-4781 View (773) 243-4781
Photo of Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
(708) 419-2072 View (708) 419-2072
Photo of Heather M Howard - Active Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Active Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
(773) 985-3407 View (773) 985-3407
Photo of Maria N Feldgreber, MS, LCPC
Maria N Feldgreber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
(224) 249-6006 View (224) 249-6006
Renee Jaegers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I believe all people can benefit from therapy services at one point or another within their lifetime. Through an integral treatment approach to therapy, utilizing treatments grounded in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), psychoanalysis and interpersonal principles, I strive to create a safe atmosphere, fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work toward discovering the answers needed for you to get "unstuck" and to move forward in life. I look forward to hearing from you.
I believe all people can benefit from therapy services at one point or another within their lifetime. Through an integral treatment approach to therapy, utilizing treatments grounded in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), psychoanalysis and interpersonal principles, I strive to create a safe atmosphere, fostering trust within the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work toward discovering the answers needed for you to get "unstuck" and to move forward in life. I look forward to hearing from you.
(224) 279-6572 View (224) 279-6572
Photo of Courtney Baumann, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Courtney Baumann
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I utilizes an integrated approach compromised of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) that aims to improve relationships that one has with their thoughts and feelings, while identifying any behaviors the client may view as problematic.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I approach therapy with an openness and a sense-of-humor that allows clients the space to grow in a meaningful and intentional way. I hold the belief that every human experiences pain and that every human is deserving of a meaningful life. I promote a safe non-judgmental environment while working with clients.
I utilizes an integrated approach compromised of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) that aims to improve relationships that one has with their thoughts and feelings, while identifying any behaviors the client may view as problematic.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I approach therapy with an openness and a sense-of-humor that allows clients the space to grow in a meaningful and intentional way. I hold the belief that every human experiences pain and that every human is deserving of a meaningful life. I promote a safe non-judgmental environment while working with clients.
(224) 249-5733 View (224) 249-5733
Photo of Dr. Abbie Kopelman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Abbie Kopelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I integrate aspects of cognitive behavior therapy, behavior therapy, mindfulness therapy, humanistic therapy, and solution-focused therapy to best support my clients.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with individuals who are neurodiverse or have anxiety or depression. I enjoy helping clients who have new diagnoses of ADHD and/or Autism understand and work to process their new identity. I’m a mother of two young children who are neurodiverse. I find using experiences with my own children and my professional knowledge enables me to successfully help parents who are struggling with parenting neurotypical or neurodiverse children or children with developmental delays. I am also fluent in Spanish, and I enjoy working with individuals from other cultures.
I integrate aspects of cognitive behavior therapy, behavior therapy, mindfulness therapy, humanistic therapy, and solution-focused therapy to best support my clients.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with individuals who are neurodiverse or have anxiety or depression. I enjoy helping clients who have new diagnoses of ADHD and/or Autism understand and work to process their new identity. I’m a mother of two young children who are neurodiverse. I find using experiences with my own children and my professional knowledge enables me to successfully help parents who are struggling with parenting neurotypical or neurodiverse children or children with developmental delays. I am also fluent in Spanish, and I enjoy working with individuals from other cultures.
(224) 563-1498 View (224) 563-1498
Photo of Kristen Sanders, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Elizabeth Cucci, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Cucci
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I specialize in a family-systems, cognitive- behavioral, and client-centered therapeutic approach, underpinned by a strengths-based perspective.
Whether you're an adolescent or adult facing family/relationship turmoil, identity exploration, mental health challenges, or self-esteem struggles, I'm here to support your journey. Your needs and goals are at the heart of our work together. My goal is to help you develop your understanding, emotional stability, and confidence in navigating life's complexities. You deserve a space where you can find answers, heal wounds, and develop resilience. Together, we'll empower you to build healthier relationships, discover your true self, and achieve the well-being and fulfillment you're striving for.
I specialize in a family-systems, cognitive- behavioral, and client-centered therapeutic approach, underpinned by a strengths-based perspective.
Whether you're an adolescent or adult facing family/relationship turmoil, identity exploration, mental health challenges, or self-esteem struggles, I'm here to support your journey. Your needs and goals are at the heart of our work together. My goal is to help you develop your understanding, emotional stability, and confidence in navigating life's complexities. You deserve a space where you can find answers, heal wounds, and develop resilience. Together, we'll empower you to build healthier relationships, discover your true self, and achieve the well-being and fulfillment you're striving for.
(224) 223-1683 View (224) 223-1683
Photo of Ann S Matus, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Ann S Matus
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
My training has been focused on assisting my clients in developing more effective coping skills to deal with addictions, depression, anxiety, bipolar or borderline through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy is cognitive- behavioral based and I aim to guide you in recognizing how your thoughts, feelings and actions are interconnected. I focus on identifying these thought distortions and behaviors that are barriers to a healthy life. I aim to build an authentic non-judgmental therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, hope, and support and I will strive to honor who you are as an individual. The populations I have worked with include adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
My training has been focused on assisting my clients in developing more effective coping skills to deal with addictions, depression, anxiety, bipolar or borderline through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My approach to therapy is cognitive- behavioral based and I aim to guide you in recognizing how your thoughts, feelings and actions are interconnected. I focus on identifying these thought distortions and behaviors that are barriers to a healthy life. I aim to build an authentic non-judgmental therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, hope, and support and I will strive to honor who you are as an individual. The populations I have worked with include adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
(331) 241-6194 View (331) 241-6194
Photo of Cindy McKnight, MS, LCPC, CFRC, CCTP, EMDR, Counselor
Cindy McKnight
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CFRC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my biography. I received my MS in Human Services/Community Counseling. I have over 20 years experience in MH and have been successful in working with individuals, couples and families. I have a particular clinical area of strength working with First Responders. I am also trained in EMDR level I & II, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy. I can also provide short-term counseling. My clinical approach is evidence based treatment as I am trained to work with various populations. We offer sessions in Libertyville, Gurnee and via telehealth.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my biography. I received my MS in Human Services/Community Counseling. I have over 20 years experience in MH and have been successful in working with individuals, couples and families. I have a particular clinical area of strength working with First Responders. I am also trained in EMDR level I & II, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy. I can also provide short-term counseling. My clinical approach is evidence based treatment as I am trained to work with various populations. We offer sessions in Libertyville, Gurnee and via telehealth.
(847) 527-8511 View (847) 527-8511
Photo of Karen Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I use a trauma-informed approach to focus on how thoughts and feelings can impact behavior.
I aim to empower you or your child to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop a stronger sense of self-esteem, and build skills that will allow you to have healthy and successful relationships. I enjoy partnering with clients to help you address concerns that may be generating uncomfortable feelings or preventing you from achieving your goals. I have experience working with adults and in elementary and middle schools supporting students with emotional regulation and social skills development. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and family conflicts.
I use a trauma-informed approach to focus on how thoughts and feelings can impact behavior.
I aim to empower you or your child to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop a stronger sense of self-esteem, and build skills that will allow you to have healthy and successful relationships. I enjoy partnering with clients to help you address concerns that may be generating uncomfortable feelings or preventing you from achieving your goals. I have experience working with adults and in elementary and middle schools supporting students with emotional regulation and social skills development. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and family conflicts.
(847) 693-3529 View (847) 693-3529
Photo of Stephanie Yunez - Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Lucy Atsaves, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Atsaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
My ideal client is a family seeking support in navigating the complexities of childhood and adolescent mental health. They may be grappling with issues like trauma, anxiety, or communication barriers. Their needs center around understanding and healing, fostering resilience, and strengthening family bonds. Their goal is holistic well-being, where each member feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. They seek guidance to navigate challenges and cultivate a nurturing environment for growth and connection.
My ideal client is a family seeking support in navigating the complexities of childhood and adolescent mental health. They may be grappling with issues like trauma, anxiety, or communication barriers. Their needs center around understanding and healing, fostering resilience, and strengthening family bonds. Their goal is holistic well-being, where each member feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. They seek guidance to navigate challenges and cultivate a nurturing environment for growth and connection.
(224) 298-8373 View (224) 298-8373
Photo of Hilary Davis, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hilary Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
With over 20 years of counseling experience as a Gottman Certified therapist with trauma training and EMDR working with individuals, families, and couples in crisis is my passion. I encourage my clients to increase their resilience by developing the skills to grow whether individually, as a couple, or in a family system. Challenges can be viewed negatively but they can also be used as a positive tool for change that can lead to stronger relationships with the right support.
With over 20 years of counseling experience as a Gottman Certified therapist with trauma training and EMDR working with individuals, families, and couples in crisis is my passion. I encourage my clients to increase their resilience by developing the skills to grow whether individually, as a couple, or in a family system. Challenges can be viewed negatively but they can also be used as a positive tool for change that can lead to stronger relationships with the right support.
(224) 208-1819 View (224) 208-1819
Photo of Cara Stronsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Stronsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
As a counselor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to find their inner peace and live a life they enjoy. I am here to help you make those ideas a reality. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, a big life transition, or something else entirely, I am ready to join you on your journey to finding peace. Let’s connect!
As a counselor, I believe that everyone has the capacity to find their inner peace and live a life they enjoy. I am here to help you make those ideas a reality. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, a big life transition, or something else entirely, I am ready to join you on your journey to finding peace. Let’s connect!
(224) 464-4063 View (224) 464-4063
Photo of Hannah Difrancesca, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Difrancesca
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
We are not designed to go through life's battles alone. Whether you are feeling stuck, misunderstood, or weighed down by the many transitions and difficulties life can throw at us, there is always hope. If you are tired of feeling as though you are falling short of walking in your full potential it would be a privilege to walk along side you, learning about your story and helping you reach your full potential. Together, we will embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and hopeful life. I am here to guide and empower you every step of the way. Let's work together to create positive change and build a brighter future.
We are not designed to go through life's battles alone. Whether you are feeling stuck, misunderstood, or weighed down by the many transitions and difficulties life can throw at us, there is always hope. If you are tired of feeling as though you are falling short of walking in your full potential it would be a privilege to walk along side you, learning about your story and helping you reach your full potential. Together, we will embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and hopeful life. I am here to guide and empower you every step of the way. Let's work together to create positive change and build a brighter future.
(847) 595-5596 View (847) 595-5596
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry, MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
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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.