Behavioral Issues Therapists in Lenoir, NC

Photo of Lori Breland, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT, Counselor
Lori Breland
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and facilitate a group for adolescents and adults (virtually).
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and facilitate a group for adolescents and adults (virtually).
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
(828) 319-2897 View (828) 319-2897
Photo of Heather Taylor, MA, MEd, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
My approach to therapy is informed by cognitive- behavioral theories.
I'm a licensed therapist with over 10 years in the mental health field. I gained my therapeutic skills as a school counselor, school based mental health clinician, and private practice work. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families on issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting, adjustments/transitions, and other mental health concerns. I'm here to help my clients meet their goals by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where they feel respected and accepted.
My approach to therapy is informed by cognitive- behavioral theories.
I'm a licensed therapist with over 10 years in the mental health field. I gained my therapeutic skills as a school counselor, school based mental health clinician, and private practice work. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families on issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting, adjustments/transitions, and other mental health concerns. I'm here to help my clients meet their goals by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where they feel respected and accepted.
(828) 532-5253 View (828) 532-5253
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, MA, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
From addictions to codependency, sexuality concerns to extramarital affairs, behavior problems in children, & many other issues, I assist people in putting the past behind them, allowing them to design lives they really love.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
From addictions to codependency, sexuality concerns to extramarital affairs, behavior problems in children, & many other issues, I assist people in putting the past behind them, allowing them to design lives they really love.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28633  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I specialize in treating emotional dysfunctions, addictions, ADHD, relational problems, gender issues as well as the challenges related to chronic illness/pain including depression, bipolar, anxiety, social phobia, OCD, behavioral compulsions, self-harming, low self esteem, anger, domestic violence, parenting, sexual issues, low motivation, online addiction, gambling, substance abuse, smoking.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Joseph Randolph Carlton - Life Adjustment Solutions, MA, LMFT, HCSVS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Life Adjustment Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, HCSVS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
Welcome, I am Joseph R. Carlton, Owner and Therapist of Life Adjustment Solution. I specialize in therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. Families are the cornerstone for preserving the stability of mental health in today's high intensity society. Individuals, couples, and families are the foundation of building close emotional relationships across generations, ethnicity, racial and religious backgrounds. Each factor is greatly considered in Life Adjustment Solution mission statement. I am dedicated to changing our society one case at a time. Each case will be considered as important as the next. My clients will receive the therapeutic care that best fits their needs.
(828) 572-7216 View (828) 572-7216
Photo of Kristen Skulicz, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Skulicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28633
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
(716) 271-5208 View (716) 271-5208
Photo of Crystal D. Smith, MACC, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal D. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc. I work with a variety of people who are at different places in their lives. As a Therapist I offer a personalized approach that is tailored to each client's needs, focusing on the personal growth that each person desires. My therapeutic style is active and engaging, with the intention of fostering insight, awareness and facilitating desired change. My counseling agency also offers a variety of support groups and counselor supervision. Please take that first step, call to inquire.
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc. I work with a variety of people who are at different places in their lives. As a Therapist I offer a personalized approach that is tailored to each client's needs, focusing on the personal growth that each person desires. My therapeutic style is active and engaging, with the intention of fostering insight, awareness and facilitating desired change. My counseling agency also offers a variety of support groups and counselor supervision. Please take that first step, call to inquire.
(828) 575-5566 View (828) 575-5566
Photo of Jo Ann Orr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Ann Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Waitlist for new clients
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
(828) 394-2417 View (828) 394-2417
Photo of Dr. Dominique Hammonds, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, , Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Dominique Hammonds
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28633
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual clinical mental health counseling, couples counseling, clinical supervision, training, education, and consultation services specializing in culturally conscious practice, cultural, gender, and sexual identity development, sex therapy, and improving emotional connection and communication skills in relationship.
I provide individual clinical mental health counseling, couples counseling, clinical supervision, training, education, and consultation services specializing in culturally conscious practice, cultural, gender, and sexual identity development, sex therapy, and improving emotional connection and communication skills in relationship.
(980) 223-3446 View (980) 223-3446
Photo of Shelley Haney, BS, BCCC, Pastoral Counselor
Shelley Haney
Pastoral Counselor, BS, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
(828) 949-1267 View (828) 949-1267
Photo of Lupe Serrano, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lupe Serrano
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Childhood can be filled with exploration, and with that comes big changes, stresses, and a shift in identity and dependency. Navigating the first two decades of life is not one size fits all. Whether it’s learning to get along with friends, going to school, dealing with broken relationships, or navigating through trauma, we all need extra support. This is where I can help. I love working with young individuals to support them in becoming exactly who they want to be while working through obstacles. I have unique experiences working with youth who struggle with identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, and navigating relationships.
Childhood can be filled with exploration, and with that comes big changes, stresses, and a shift in identity and dependency. Navigating the first two decades of life is not one size fits all. Whether it’s learning to get along with friends, going to school, dealing with broken relationships, or navigating through trauma, we all need extra support. This is where I can help. I love working with young individuals to support them in becoming exactly who they want to be while working through obstacles. I have unique experiences working with youth who struggle with identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, and navigating relationships.
(828) 845-8461 View (828) 845-8461
Photo of Melody Annas, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Melody Annas
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or stress? I aim to support my clients through processing and navigating the many challenges that we face in today’s world. I strive to provide a safe space for my clients in order to grow and heal. I work with clients to establish goals that will better their mental health, well-being, and future.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or stress? I aim to support my clients through processing and navigating the many challenges that we face in today’s world. I strive to provide a safe space for my clients in order to grow and heal. I work with clients to establish goals that will better their mental health, well-being, and future.
(828) 827-5749 View (828) 827-5749
Photo of Anquinett L Burnett, MA,  , LCMHC, Counselor
Anquinett L Burnett
Counselor, MA, , LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Not accepting new clients
We all have obstacles in this life that we must navigate. The part that falls on us is how we cope with these obstacles. You have to make decisions that could hinder our growth. You may become overwhelmed and do nothing. But guess what, that is still a decision. My role is to help guide you to the path that is best for you. I offer different techniques that are shaped to help you obtain the answers that you are seeking. As a team we will develop coping skills, identify patterns and learn to make better decisions.
We all have obstacles in this life that we must navigate. The part that falls on us is how we cope with these obstacles. You have to make decisions that could hinder our growth. You may become overwhelmed and do nothing. But guess what, that is still a decision. My role is to help guide you to the path that is best for you. I offer different techniques that are shaped to help you obtain the answers that you are seeking. As a team we will develop coping skills, identify patterns and learn to make better decisions.
(828) 528-3381 View (828) 528-3381
Photo of Patricia E Cone, MA, LCMHC
Patricia E Cone
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Not accepting new clients
**NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME - Working as a licensed counselor for over 30 years has tenderized my heart towards those who want to get "unstuck" from patterns and places we all can find ourselves in. Though I specialize in trauma work and family systems, I work with clients who have anxiety issues, depression, abuse, addictions, sexual trauma, disturbing life events, self concept and life change adjustments. I love what I do and am passionate about walking with people through their pain, shame and fear to a place of hope.
**NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME - Working as a licensed counselor for over 30 years has tenderized my heart towards those who want to get "unstuck" from patterns and places we all can find ourselves in. Though I specialize in trauma work and family systems, I work with clients who have anxiety issues, depression, abuse, addictions, sexual trauma, disturbing life events, self concept and life change adjustments. I love what I do and am passionate about walking with people through their pain, shame and fear to a place of hope.
(305) 290-4308 View (305) 290-4308

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Spears, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
In addition to my EMDR certification, I’m trained in multiple therapeutic interventions including Gottman Therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems & Play Therapy.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a hospice social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide a "total care" approach while offering guidance through the emotional process of death. Now in private practice, I have worked with many cases and continue to use the "total care" approach with each client. I welcome all individuals and find incorporating your values/beliefs in therapy is supportive of the healing process. As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
In addition to my EMDR certification, I’m trained in multiple therapeutic interventions including Gottman Therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems & Play Therapy.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a hospice social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide a "total care" approach while offering guidance through the emotional process of death. Now in private practice, I have worked with many cases and continue to use the "total care" approach with each client. I welcome all individuals and find incorporating your values/beliefs in therapy is supportive of the healing process. As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
(828) 705-3431 View (828) 705-3431

Online Therapists

Photo of Chelsea Rogers, LCMHC, QS, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, QS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with all ages struggling with various issues but many common issues I see are anxiety, trauma, depression, mood fluctuations, self-harm, school and home behavioral issues, aggression, attachment problems, relationship issues, sexual identity, and eating disorders. I also work with families to improve communication patterns, enhance relationships, shift responsibilities in the household, prevent enabling of maladaptive behaviors, implement a behavioral system, improve harmony, and regain order in the home. I am a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and I am available to provide supervision for LCMHC-A and Master's Level interns.
I work with all ages struggling with various issues but many common issues I see are anxiety, trauma, depression, mood fluctuations, self-harm, school and home behavioral issues, aggression, attachment problems, relationship issues, sexual identity, and eating disorders. I also work with families to improve communication patterns, enhance relationships, shift responsibilities in the household, prevent enabling of maladaptive behaviors, implement a behavioral system, improve harmony, and regain order in the home. I am a Qualified Clinical Supervisor and I am available to provide supervision for LCMHC-A and Master's Level interns.
(336) 901-9380 View (336) 901-9380
Photo of Jennifer V Greene - Jennifer V. Greene, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer V. Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
SPT assesses the child’s need for Behavioral Health Services and works with the child and primary caregiver to create a treatment plan that best meets the needs of the child and family.
I have been working with children since 1994. I worked for Mecklenburg County Early Intervention Services from 1994-2008, providing service coordination as well as specializing in educational services, helping to enhance the development in children from ages 0-3. I became a stay-at-home Mom until receiving my master’s in social work and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I worked for an agency providing Behavioral Mental Heath Services for children between the ages of 4-17.
SPT assesses the child’s need for Behavioral Health Services and works with the child and primary caregiver to create a treatment plan that best meets the needs of the child and family.
I have been working with children since 1994. I worked for Mecklenburg County Early Intervention Services from 1994-2008, providing service coordination as well as specializing in educational services, helping to enhance the development in children from ages 0-3. I became a stay-at-home Mom until receiving my master’s in social work and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I worked for an agency providing Behavioral Mental Heath Services for children between the ages of 4-17.
(704) 457-1522 View (704) 457-1522
Photo of Richard Lamb, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Richard Lamb
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I often use different techniques taken from the following areas: play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, brain spotting, and functional / applied behavioral analysis.
I provide basic mental health counseling and psychoeducational services to pediatric and adult populations between the ages of 10 and adult. Specifically, I serve persons with general mental health concerns and who have experienced trauma. I believe there is a significant interplay between cognition, affect, and behaviors. A person who is able to successfully restructure cognition through understanding of their needs will be successful in making behavioral, and affective changes with lasting success and improved mental health wellbeing.
I often use different techniques taken from the following areas: play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, brain spotting, and functional / applied behavioral analysis.
I provide basic mental health counseling and psychoeducational services to pediatric and adult populations between the ages of 10 and adult. Specifically, I serve persons with general mental health concerns and who have experienced trauma. I believe there is a significant interplay between cognition, affect, and behaviors. A person who is able to successfully restructure cognition through understanding of their needs will be successful in making behavioral, and affective changes with lasting success and improved mental health wellbeing.
(336) 739-5025 View (336) 739-5025
Photo of Payton Saine, LCMHCA, Counselor
Payton Saine
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Marion, NC 28752  (Online Only)
I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy and the concept of changing the mindset to a more fulfilling, positive way of thinking in order to also produce positive behaviors.
I have experience working with children (ages 8+), adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as well as couples and families. I deal primarily with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders or issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, anger, grief, and body image issues, and work collaboratively with these clients to create clear goals that will provide them with a brighter, happier future.
I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy and the concept of changing the mindset to a more fulfilling, positive way of thinking in order to also produce positive behaviors.
I have experience working with children (ages 8+), adolescents, adults, and the elderly, as well as couples and families. I deal primarily with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders or issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, anger, grief, and body image issues, and work collaboratively with these clients to create clear goals that will provide them with a brighter, happier future.
(828) 373-2824 View (828) 373-2824
Photo of Jocelyn G Bumpers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn G Bumpers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Through DBT Interventions, we will identify and explore our triggers which lead to maladaptive coping/ behavioral patterns.
Hey, I’m glad that you are here. Believe it or not, this is the first step to a new beginning. My name is Jocelyn Bumpers and I believe that most human beings desire to be the best version of themself, no matter where we’ve been…or what we’ve been through. However, the issue is that we don’t know how to transform from who we are now to who we want to become. Whether you struggle with a personality disorder, suicidal ideation/urges to self harm, or experience the anxiety that is perfectionism and impostor syndrome. My intention and commitment is to assist, support, and encourage you as you overcome these challenges.
Through DBT Interventions, we will identify and explore our triggers which lead to maladaptive coping/ behavioral patterns.
Hey, I’m glad that you are here. Believe it or not, this is the first step to a new beginning. My name is Jocelyn Bumpers and I believe that most human beings desire to be the best version of themself, no matter where we’ve been…or what we’ve been through. However, the issue is that we don’t know how to transform from who we are now to who we want to become. Whether you struggle with a personality disorder, suicidal ideation/urges to self harm, or experience the anxiety that is perfectionism and impostor syndrome. My intention and commitment is to assist, support, and encourage you as you overcome these challenges.
(336) 443-6568 View (336) 443-6568

See more therapy options for Lenoir

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.