Behavioral Issues Therapists in Lexington, KY

Photo of Daisy E Brown - The Champion Therapy Center LLC, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Champion Therapy Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40505  (Online Only)
We offer play therapy, solution focus therapy, task center approach and behavior modification techniques.
My focus is to help individuals heal, become inspired, and aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by listening to your concerns, customizing a treatment plan, and being a part of your support team.
We offer play therapy, solution focus therapy, task center approach and behavior modification techniques.
My focus is to help individuals heal, become inspired, and aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by listening to your concerns, customizing a treatment plan, and being a part of your support team.
(859) 666-6087 View (859) 666-6087
Photo of Jessica Shannon, LCSW, CMNCS, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Shannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMNCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40515
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist certified as a Dialectical Behavior Therapist and as a certified Mental Health and Nutrition Clinical Specialist. I have gained a wide range of experience working with children, teens and adults of all diversities across settings. I have training and experience helping individuals address an array of concerns, but primarily focus on assisting children, adolescents, teens and young adults cope with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, mood related disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, self harm, nutritional concerns, relationship concerns, and self esteem.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist certified as a Dialectical Behavior Therapist and as a certified Mental Health and Nutrition Clinical Specialist. I have gained a wide range of experience working with children, teens and adults of all diversities across settings. I have training and experience helping individuals address an array of concerns, but primarily focus on assisting children, adolescents, teens and young adults cope with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, mood related disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, self harm, nutritional concerns, relationship concerns, and self esteem.
(502) 883-6636 View (502) 883-6636
Photo of Kevin Jones, MEd, LPA, Psychological Associate
Kevin Jones
Psychological Associate, MEd, LPA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
I provide both counseling and psychological testing/evaluation to teens and adults. Both services will explore current difficulties in your daily functioning, impact of life events, personality traits, and how your behavior may be influenced by the environment around you. I primarily focus on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, and ASD for counseling and testing, while exploring differential diagnosis for evaluations as well.
I provide both counseling and psychological testing/evaluation to teens and adults. Both services will explore current difficulties in your daily functioning, impact of life events, personality traits, and how your behavior may be influenced by the environment around you. I primarily focus on ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, and ASD for counseling and testing, while exploring differential diagnosis for evaluations as well.
(859) 217-4657 View (859) 217-4657
Photo of Nicole Lally, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Lally
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
I utilize evidenced-based practices and therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, client centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength based approaches to assist and empower clients in achieving their goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with a variety of mental health, behavioral issues, and trauma. I am also a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor and am extremely passionate about helping adolescents and adults suffering from substance use disorders achieve freedom and recovery from their substance use. I am equally passionate about assisting family members struggling with maladaptive behaviors stemming from substance use disorders, such as codependency.
I utilize evidenced-based practices and therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, client centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength based approaches to assist and empower clients in achieving their goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with a variety of mental health, behavioral issues, and trauma. I am also a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor and am extremely passionate about helping adolescents and adults suffering from substance use disorders achieve freedom and recovery from their substance use. I am equally passionate about assisting family members struggling with maladaptive behaviors stemming from substance use disorders, such as codependency.
(859) 209-6533 View (859) 209-6533
Photo of Sharla Mize, LPCC, MHSP
Sharla Mize
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
I offer expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Neuro-Affective Relational therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
I offer expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Neuro-Affective Relational therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
People seek me out because they find their current situation intolerable - they are sick and tired of experiencing shame, intense anger, depression and anxiety. Perhaps they want to work on their addiction - the thing they use to numb the painful experiences. Their relationships are suffering as a result of their behaviors, being closed off, or "too much" for others. Many struggle with feelings of inadequacy, perfectionism and a deep sense of futility, which prevents them from taking charge of their lives and confidently pursuing their heart's desire.
(502) 443-9272 View (502) 443-9272
Photo of Anna Stephens, MS, LPCC, RPT
Anna Stephens
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are highented and can effect children and adults alike. I am a Certified Play Therapist working toward Registration with over two years of experience working with adults and children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them acheive their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are highented and can effect children and adults alike. I am a Certified Play Therapist working toward Registration with over two years of experience working with adults and children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them acheive their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
(859) 470-8187 View (859) 470-8187
Photo of C Beth Lewis, MA, LMFT-S, RPT, TBRI, Marriage & Family Therapist
C Beth Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, RPT, TBRI
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
Families, parents and ages 2-18. Are you looking for positive change in your child's behavior? Does your family need to break unhealthy cycles and find a way to re-connect and interact in healthy ways? Beth is passionate about children and adolescents receiving healing from trauma, attachment concerns, families formed through foster care and adoption, and children struggling from the impacts of addiction. Through a specific program, Beth offers a 10 week intensive program for kids ages 3-7 to heal who are fostered or adopted.
Families, parents and ages 2-18. Are you looking for positive change in your child's behavior? Does your family need to break unhealthy cycles and find a way to re-connect and interact in healthy ways? Beth is passionate about children and adolescents receiving healing from trauma, attachment concerns, families formed through foster care and adoption, and children struggling from the impacts of addiction. Through a specific program, Beth offers a 10 week intensive program for kids ages 3-7 to heal who are fostered or adopted.
(859) 428-8122 View (859) 428-8122
Photo of Courteney Nickodem, LPCC-S, Counselor
Courteney Nickodem
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Hello! I'm so happy you're here, whether this be your first time making the brave decision to strengthen your mental health, or if you have been to counseling before- you are all welcome here! My name is Courteney Nickodem and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor who has a passion for helping, supporting and encouraging my clients in a direct and result oriented setting. I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including: cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, strength based intervention, as well as an option to provide faith based therapy.
Hello! I'm so happy you're here, whether this be your first time making the brave decision to strengthen your mental health, or if you have been to counseling before- you are all welcome here! My name is Courteney Nickodem and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor who has a passion for helping, supporting and encouraging my clients in a direct and result oriented setting. I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including: cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, strength based intervention, as well as an option to provide faith based therapy.
(859) 309-5411 View (859) 309-5411
Photo of Leah Walker - Guided Path Counseling, LPCMHSP, LPCC-S, LCHMC-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Guided Path Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LPCC-S, LCHMC-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502  (Online Only)
I have experience using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling.
Hi I'm Leah, the owner, CEO, and therapist for Guided Path Counseling. I am happy to have so many wonderful therapists at Guided Path! We will make sure that you are paired with the therapist that best fits your needs. We have experience working with a variety of populations, including incarcerated, inpatient, couples, military, families, adolescents, and children. Besides traditional therapy, I offer assessments for emotional support animals and evaluations for gender affirming care procedures.
I have experience using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling.
Hi I'm Leah, the owner, CEO, and therapist for Guided Path Counseling. I am happy to have so many wonderful therapists at Guided Path! We will make sure that you are paired with the therapist that best fits your needs. We have experience working with a variety of populations, including incarcerated, inpatient, couples, military, families, adolescents, and children. Besides traditional therapy, I offer assessments for emotional support animals and evaluations for gender affirming care procedures.
(615) 285-5805 View (615) 285-5805
Photo of Kimberly May Alexander - Innovative Counseling Services of KY, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Services of KY
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40505
My clinical experience includes working with families addressing child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues.
I am Kimberly Alexander and I believe it is a privilege to serve my community as a helping professional. I believe life continuously evolves and change is inevitable. When accepting a client I believe they have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. I see counseling as a way of finding solutions, exploring possibilities, and facilitating self-discovery that leads to a more productive and happy life.
My clinical experience includes working with families addressing child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues.
I am Kimberly Alexander and I believe it is a privilege to serve my community as a helping professional. I believe life continuously evolves and change is inevitable. When accepting a client I believe they have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. I see counseling as a way of finding solutions, exploring possibilities, and facilitating self-discovery that leads to a more productive and happy life.
(859) 648-0534 View (859) 648-0534
Photo of Darisha Jenkins, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darisha Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40513
My preferred therapeutic modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Person Centered Therapy using techniques found in the Motivational Interviewing approach.
I can assist both children and adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship stressors as well as life transitions.
My preferred therapeutic modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Person Centered Therapy using techniques found in the Motivational Interviewing approach.
I can assist both children and adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship stressors as well as life transitions.
(859) 328-2944 View (859) 328-2944
Photo of Janice Delores Hagans-Higgins, MEd, LPCC-S
Janice Delores Hagans-Higgins
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I have 5 years experience with specified clientele, Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) with use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existentialism.
Hello, I'm Janice. Do you feel as though you are facing the world alone, that life is too difficult, overwhelmed by life's circumstances, everyone's against you, or you're misunderstood? All of these issues may lead to anxiety, depression, or even substance use. I love working with clients igniting hope, believing no one is left to go through adversity alone. I'm a Licensed Counselor, Licensed Practical Nurse, Holistic life Coach, Certified Aroma Specialist, and Energy Healer, who enjoys working with people. My personal life experience with issues like trauma help me completely understand how you feel, which is important.
I have 5 years experience with specified clientele, Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) with use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existentialism.
Hello, I'm Janice. Do you feel as though you are facing the world alone, that life is too difficult, overwhelmed by life's circumstances, everyone's against you, or you're misunderstood? All of these issues may lead to anxiety, depression, or even substance use. I love working with clients igniting hope, believing no one is left to go through adversity alone. I'm a Licensed Counselor, Licensed Practical Nurse, Holistic life Coach, Certified Aroma Specialist, and Energy Healer, who enjoys working with people. My personal life experience with issues like trauma help me completely understand how you feel, which is important.
(859) 340-5776 View (859) 340-5776
Photo of Kallie Jo Smith, MSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kallie Jo Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
For each client, I take an individualized approach which will incorporate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based Approach, and Solution -Focused Brief Therapy.
I believe that you are the expert on your own life and your greatest resource for healing. As your therapist, my strengths-based approach incorporates elements of mindfulness, self-compassion, and inner critic work. My goal is to meet clients where they are at, welcoming and honoring them as a whole person. I value honesty, humor, and humility within the therapeutic relationship, as well as connection, creativity, and collaboration. We will do the hard stuff but will also have a lot of laughs along the way!
For each client, I take an individualized approach which will incorporate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based Approach, and Solution -Focused Brief Therapy.
I believe that you are the expert on your own life and your greatest resource for healing. As your therapist, my strengths-based approach incorporates elements of mindfulness, self-compassion, and inner critic work. My goal is to meet clients where they are at, welcoming and honoring them as a whole person. I value honesty, humor, and humility within the therapeutic relationship, as well as connection, creativity, and collaboration. We will do the hard stuff but will also have a lot of laughs along the way!
(859) 459-0994 View (859) 459-0994
Photo of Heather James, LPCC, LCADC
Heather James
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
I utilizes evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques, such as reality therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, to improve clients’ ability to handle their daily life as it is in the moment, and make progress on achieving the life they want.
Hello! My name is Heather James. I am a LPCC and LCADC in the state of KY. I work with clients 15 and older presenting with various mental health concerns, such as anxiety, mood, substance abuse, stress induced disorders, trauma, and relationship conflict. I provide individual and marriage counseling to improve functionality of the individual, family, and partner needs. I have experience in the equine industry and understand the life style of an equestrian.
I utilizes evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques, such as reality therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, to improve clients’ ability to handle their daily life as it is in the moment, and make progress on achieving the life they want.
Hello! My name is Heather James. I am a LPCC and LCADC in the state of KY. I work with clients 15 and older presenting with various mental health concerns, such as anxiety, mood, substance abuse, stress induced disorders, trauma, and relationship conflict. I provide individual and marriage counseling to improve functionality of the individual, family, and partner needs. I have experience in the equine industry and understand the life style of an equestrian.
(859) 710-8427 View (859) 710-8427
Photo of Amanda Lyons, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lyons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I specialize in behavioral issues, family conflict, anxiety, depression, and more.
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Wofford College and my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families in various settings, including outpatient, shelter, and residential environments. I work with children aged 3 and up, as well as adolescents and parents, in both individual and family sessions. Together, we'll determine the best approach to support your family's needs.
I specialize in behavioral issues, family conflict, anxiety, depression, and more.
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Wofford College and my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families in various settings, including outpatient, shelter, and residential environments. I work with children aged 3 and up, as well as adolescents and parents, in both individual and family sessions. Together, we'll determine the best approach to support your family's needs.
(859) 295-6478 View (859) 295-6478
Photo of Erin Aiello, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques with humanistic approaches, which means that the questions I ask incorporate your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
I believe that you have the answers to your questions and problems within yourself. My role as a therapist is to help you find those answers. You are the expert of your life and your role as a client is to educate me on your perspectives and experiences.
I utilize cognitive-behavioral techniques with humanistic approaches, which means that the questions I ask incorporate your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
I believe that you have the answers to your questions and problems within yourself. My role as a therapist is to help you find those answers. You are the expert of your life and your role as a client is to educate me on your perspectives and experiences.
(859) 667-1081 View (859) 667-1081
Photo of Ivy Livengood - Resolutions Therapy Practice, LCSW, LPCC, TCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Resolutions Therapy Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPCC, TCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
We have training in Psychodynamic Therapies, Mindfulness Therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and Solution-Focused Therapies.
Medicaid and most Commercial Insurances Accepted. We currently have both in person and telehealth appointments available. We provide Psychotherapy and Case Management Services. We have years of training and experience helping clients of all ages with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, family issues, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, substance abuse, among many other areas of focus. We tailor our approach to healing in ways which will best meet your needs. Our goal is to meet you where you are- together we will come to the resolution you are seeking. Call or message us today to schedule
We have training in Psychodynamic Therapies, Mindfulness Therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and Solution-Focused Therapies.
Medicaid and most Commercial Insurances Accepted. We currently have both in person and telehealth appointments available. We provide Psychotherapy and Case Management Services. We have years of training and experience helping clients of all ages with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, family issues, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, substance abuse, among many other areas of focus. We tailor our approach to healing in ways which will best meet your needs. Our goal is to meet you where you are- together we will come to the resolution you are seeking. Call or message us today to schedule
(859) 298-3357 View (859) 298-3357
Photo of Erin L Cooper, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin L Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
Are you looking for a compassionate therapist to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth? I am dedicated to providing the guidance and tools you need to overcome life's challenges. With expertise in a range of issues, including neurodivergence, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, family dynamics, intimate partner difficulties, parenting struggles, and trauma-focused therapy, I am here to help you find your inner strength and live a more fulfilling life. I have specialized experience in supporting parents of children with Autism or intellectual disabilties.
Are you looking for a compassionate therapist to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth? I am dedicated to providing the guidance and tools you need to overcome life's challenges. With expertise in a range of issues, including neurodivergence, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, grief, family dynamics, intimate partner difficulties, parenting struggles, and trauma-focused therapy, I am here to help you find your inner strength and live a more fulfilling life. I have specialized experience in supporting parents of children with Autism or intellectual disabilties.
(859) 328-1886 View (859) 328-1886
Photo of Kara Stith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Stith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40533  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I have been practicing since 2009 with experience in mental and behavioral health counseling with adolescents and adults. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky and my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have training in a variety of counseling approaches to customize therapy to fit each client's individual needs, including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I have been practicing since 2009 with experience in mental and behavioral health counseling with adolescents and adults. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky and my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have training in a variety of counseling approaches to customize therapy to fit each client's individual needs, including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(859) 379-7173 View (859) 379-7173
Photo of Kristen Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and I am working toward certification in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
As a parent myself I understand how overwhelming it can feel to see your child struggling to understand, express, and manage their emotions. I can help your child or adolescent learn to control their emotions and behaviors to benefit the entire family! And the insight and skills gained in therapy will be utilized throughout your child’s lifetime. My approach is integrative, primarily adopting techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy, and behavior modification. Want to know more? I'd love to connect with you!
I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and I am working toward certification in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
As a parent myself I understand how overwhelming it can feel to see your child struggling to understand, express, and manage their emotions. I can help your child or adolescent learn to control their emotions and behaviors to benefit the entire family! And the insight and skills gained in therapy will be utilized throughout your child’s lifetime. My approach is integrative, primarily adopting techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy, and behavior modification. Want to know more? I'd love to connect with you!
(859) 955-4916 View (859) 955-4916
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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.