Behavioral Issues Therapists in Wilmette, IL

Photo of Kannan Vinaitheerthan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kannan Vinaitheerthan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
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
Wilmette, IL 60091  (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 Brian Drelicharz, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Drelicharz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and related mood disorders, as well as the behavioral issues that stem from them.
Most people face trying times at different points in their lives and may benefit from support to overcome their challenges. Seeking help can be intimidating and it takes courage to begin therapy. As a social worker, I am trained to help people to better understand themselves and what may be contributing to their struggles, and to offer practical solutions that can help improve their situation. Although I genuinely enjoy the people that I meet, I believe that therapy should be temporary professional assistance so that people can learn how to manage their challenges independently.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and related mood disorders, as well as the behavioral issues that stem from them.
Most people face trying times at different points in their lives and may benefit from support to overcome their challenges. Seeking help can be intimidating and it takes courage to begin therapy. As a social worker, I am trained to help people to better understand themselves and what may be contributing to their struggles, and to offer practical solutions that can help improve their situation. Although I genuinely enjoy the people that I meet, I believe that therapy should be temporary professional assistance so that people can learn how to manage their challenges independently.
(708) 998-4669 View (708) 998-4669
Photo of Dr. Estelle Oyer, PsyD , Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Estelle Oyer
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
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 Charlotte Royal Walker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlotte Royal Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
Drawing on 17 years of expertise, I use mind/ body techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, and mindfulness based therapy such as EFT tapping and guided imagery.
My approach to therapy is centered on the belief that everyone has inherent strengths and wisdom. Working together in our sessions, we will explore a path to meaningful insights into your life. In the process, you will learn new skills that will allow you to bring about thoughtful, positive changes.
Drawing on 17 years of expertise, I use mind/ body techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, ACT, and mindfulness based therapy such as EFT tapping and guided imagery.
My approach to therapy is centered on the belief that everyone has inherent strengths and wisdom. Working together in our sessions, we will explore a path to meaningful insights into your life. In the process, you will learn new skills that will allow you to bring about thoughtful, positive changes.
(224) 408-5262 View (224) 408-5262
Photo of Sara Gallant, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Gallant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize cognitive behavioral, strength-based, and family systems approaches to achieve our set goals.
If you're looking to create positive change in your life, or family life, I am the therapist for you. Clients come to me when they are feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck and we work together as a team to tackle these uncomfortable feelings. I strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, as to empower them to become the best version of themselves. My style is collaborative, directive, and interactive. Together, we explore unhelpful thinking patterns, implement healthy coping strategies, and make progress towards reaching your desired goals.
I utilize cognitive behavioral, strength-based, and family systems approaches to achieve our set goals.
If you're looking to create positive change in your life, or family life, I am the therapist for you. Clients come to me when they are feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck and we work together as a team to tackle these uncomfortable feelings. I strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, as to empower them to become the best version of themselves. My style is collaborative, directive, and interactive. Together, we explore unhelpful thinking patterns, implement healthy coping strategies, and make progress towards reaching your desired goals.
(847) 994-4965 View (847) 994-4965
Photo of Susan J Antonini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan J Antonini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Susan enlists cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strengths-based approach as she encourages clients to stay true to themselves and contemplate the world of possibilities that lies ahead.
Susan knows that self-exploration is a lifelong process and considers it an honor to support clients of all ages. Her authenticity and ability to “keep it real” set the stage for honest reflection, productive conversation, and an overall feeling of trust. Clients who work with Susan learn to embrace the fabric of their lives while they set goals and develop strategies for navigating obstacles in healthful ways, promoting personal growth.
Susan enlists cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strengths-based approach as she encourages clients to stay true to themselves and contemplate the world of possibilities that lies ahead.
Susan knows that self-exploration is a lifelong process and considers it an honor to support clients of all ages. Her authenticity and ability to “keep it real” set the stage for honest reflection, productive conversation, and an overall feeling of trust. Clients who work with Susan learn to embrace the fabric of their lives while they set goals and develop strategies for navigating obstacles in healthful ways, promoting personal growth.
(224) 207-4512 View (224) 207-4512
Photo of Sarah Carollo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Carollo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My therapy sessions often utilize Family Based Treatment for eating disorders, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
Since 2017 I have worked with children, adolescents and adults with a special focus in trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and disordered eating. Whether you are seeking therapy for a specific problem, undesired pattern, or relationship discord, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance with you to promote positive change. I have specialized training in FBT (Family Based Treatment) for eating disorders and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). If working with a child/adolescent, I believe in bridging the therapy space to the home, and will closely collaborate with caregivers to enhance therapeutic progress.
My therapy sessions often utilize Family Based Treatment for eating disorders, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
Since 2017 I have worked with children, adolescents and adults with a special focus in trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and disordered eating. Whether you are seeking therapy for a specific problem, undesired pattern, or relationship discord, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance with you to promote positive change. I have specialized training in FBT (Family Based Treatment) for eating disorders and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). If working with a child/adolescent, I believe in bridging the therapy space to the home, and will closely collaborate with caregivers to enhance therapeutic progress.
(224) 207-4398 View (224) 207-4398
Photo of John K. Schlesinger, PsyD, Psychologist
John K. Schlesinger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My clients seek treatment for various problems, including disturbance of behavior, thought or mood.
I provide psychological therapy which focuses on the way that people think and behave. My practice specializes in working with children/adolescents and college/post-college adults who have problems adapting to their current life circumstances. Each person brings into treatment all their experiences, both joyous and problematic, which provides a base for the development of individualized goals and objectives.
My clients seek treatment for various problems, including disturbance of behavior, thought or mood.
I provide psychological therapy which focuses on the way that people think and behave. My practice specializes in working with children/adolescents and college/post-college adults who have problems adapting to their current life circumstances. Each person brings into treatment all their experiences, both joyous and problematic, which provides a base for the development of individualized goals and objectives.
(773) 786-9764 View (773) 786-9764
Joan Ferdinand-Keleher
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
My general private practice includes several specialties: EMDR ; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Internal Family Systems; Imago relationship perspective.
I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice with offices in Evanston and Chicago offering psychotherapy services to adult individuals, couples, and families.
(224) 408-5126 View (224) 408-5126
Photo of Kelly Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused, Social Thinking techniques and enjoy bringing art into sessions.
I help students and their families navigate the stressors of school and social experiences of being and raising preteens. I have helped children and teenagers identify and manage their emotions in a more productive and healthy way. Many of the children that I work with experience challenges with self-confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, peer relationships, and social communication. I also have experience working in a private practice setting with children as young as 5 years old to young adults.
I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused, Social Thinking techniques and enjoy bringing art into sessions.
I help students and their families navigate the stressors of school and social experiences of being and raising preteens. I have helped children and teenagers identify and manage their emotions in a more productive and healthy way. Many of the children that I work with experience challenges with self-confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, peer relationships, and social communication. I also have experience working in a private practice setting with children as young as 5 years old to young adults.
(224) 537-0832 View (224) 537-0832
Photo of Val Newman, ATR, LCPC, Counselor
Val Newman
Counselor, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Val has woven traditional talk therapy and creative techniques to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals, youth and families to work through difficult life experiences. They have extensive experience working with youth and families managing the challenges associated with emotional and behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health concerns, and various traumatic life events. She believes in an empowerment and strength-based approach while fostering an environment that encourages self-acceptance, self-awareness and growth.
Val has woven traditional talk therapy and creative techniques to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals, youth and families to work through difficult life experiences. They have extensive experience working with youth and families managing the challenges associated with emotional and behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health concerns, and various traumatic life events. She believes in an empowerment and strength-based approach while fostering an environment that encourages self-acceptance, self-awareness and growth.
(312) 548-1672 View (312) 548-1672
Photo of Anita Gerber, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Gerber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, helping individuals, couples, and families. My experience has included working in a medical/hospital setting, at a family therapy clinical/training center, and in private practice. My approach is centered on respect for the challenges and stresses that people encounter and the strengths they can call upon in coping with these uncertainties. I use my knowledge and training in family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy to help clients better understand and resolve their problems.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, helping individuals, couples, and families. My experience has included working in a medical/hospital setting, at a family therapy clinical/training center, and in private practice. My approach is centered on respect for the challenges and stresses that people encounter and the strengths they can call upon in coping with these uncertainties. I use my knowledge and training in family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy to help clients better understand and resolve their problems.
(847) 282-4305 View (847) 282-4305
Photo of Christopher Nora, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Nora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am a firm believer that the success of a therapeutic relationship can be determined within the first two sessions. A strong alliance between the practitioner and client is essential for the success of treatment. As such, I place a strong emphasis on creating an environment that fosters comfortable conversation, safety, and openness between us as partners in the therapeutic process. By doing so, and allowing conversation to flow naturally, I believe that a more authentic alliance can begin to develop. I adhere mainly to cognitive behavioral theory to serve as the backbone for the therapeutic techniques that I employ.
I am a firm believer that the success of a therapeutic relationship can be determined within the first two sessions. A strong alliance between the practitioner and client is essential for the success of treatment. As such, I place a strong emphasis on creating an environment that fosters comfortable conversation, safety, and openness between us as partners in the therapeutic process. By doing so, and allowing conversation to flow naturally, I believe that a more authentic alliance can begin to develop. I adhere mainly to cognitive behavioral theory to serve as the backbone for the therapeutic techniques that I employ.
(312) 313-8416 View (312) 313-8416
Photo of Maddie Isaacs, LSW, MSW, PEL, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maddie Isaacs
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Dialectical Behavioral, Cognitive Behavioral , Family Systems, and Strength Based therapies and many more.
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and development, but it is not easy! People face trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues, and other issues that are difficult to handle on their own. It can also be difficult to reach out to others and/or professionals to seek support. This is why I am here for you! I am an approachable, genuine, and warm clinician to make the transition to therapy and the therapy process as easy as possible. I provide children, teens, young adults, and adults a positive, safe and comfortable environment. I provide as much care, support and healing to reach and maintain my clients’ needs.
Dialectical Behavioral, Cognitive Behavioral , Family Systems, and Strength Based therapies and many more.
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and development, but it is not easy! People face trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues, and other issues that are difficult to handle on their own. It can also be difficult to reach out to others and/or professionals to seek support. This is why I am here for you! I am an approachable, genuine, and warm clinician to make the transition to therapy and the therapy process as easy as possible. I provide children, teens, young adults, and adults a positive, safe and comfortable environment. I provide as much care, support and healing to reach and maintain my clients’ needs.
(224) 298-8102 View (224) 298-8102
Photo of Ed Rhodes, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ed Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a number of perspectives (Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential, Psychodynamic, and Evolutionary Psychology), as well as pragmatic and honest, focused on insight, meaning, and the ways in which our experiences shape our views of the relations between self and other, the world, and our place therein.
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a number of perspectives (Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential, Psychodynamic, and Evolutionary Psychology), as well as pragmatic and honest, focused on insight, meaning, and the ways in which our experiences shape our views of the relations between self and other, the world, and our place therein.
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
(312) 313-0272 View (312) 313-0272
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
My graduate education at Columbia University and New York University in experimental psychology, community psychology, and clinical psychology, was followed by postgraduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy at New York State Psychiatric Institute, family systems at Family Institute of Chicago, and a health psychology fellowship at Northwestern University Medical School.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
My graduate education at Columbia University and New York University in experimental psychology, community psychology, and clinical psychology, was followed by postgraduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy at New York State Psychiatric Institute, family systems at Family Institute of Chicago, and a health psychology fellowship at Northwestern University Medical School.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895
Photo of Michelle Kane, MS, LMFT, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
As a previous Clinical Program Fellow at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, I specialized in Mindfulness and Behavior Therapies, balancing a combination of acceptance and change.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
As a previous Clinical Program Fellow at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, I specialized in Mindfulness and Behavior Therapies, balancing a combination of acceptance and change.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
(619) 438-0527 View (619) 438-0527
Photo of Jacqueline Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Jacqueline Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
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
Wilmette, IL 60091
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.