Behavioral Issues Therapists in Suffolk County, NY

Photo of Jessica Puttre, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Puttre
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Many people struggle with anxiety everyday. This daily struggle makes everyday activities difficult and sometimes seem impossible. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) which helps people understand their anxiety and how to change their anxious thoughts and behaviors. CBT is an effective form of treatment for a wide range of psychological disorders such as Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Social Phobia, School Phobia, Test Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, and Depression. CBT teaches a person the coping techniques necessary to live a healthy and balanced life.
Many people struggle with anxiety everyday. This daily struggle makes everyday activities difficult and sometimes seem impossible. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) which helps people understand their anxiety and how to change their anxious thoughts and behaviors. CBT is an effective form of treatment for a wide range of psychological disorders such as Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Social Phobia, School Phobia, Test Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, and Depression. CBT teaches a person the coping techniques necessary to live a healthy and balanced life.
(631) 629-5489 View (631) 629-5489
Photo of Brian Goldberg, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist
Brian Goldberg
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist and behavior analyst, I have extensive training and experience working with adults with anxiety and young children with behavior issues.
Things can get very overwhelming in today's world. We are here to help you or your child to deal with many different situations and in many different places. We often provide support for entire families to improve life at home. Let's work together to deal with various behaviors and difficulty coping.
As a licensed psychologist and behavior analyst, I have extensive training and experience working with adults with anxiety and young children with behavior issues.
Things can get very overwhelming in today's world. We are here to help you or your child to deal with many different situations and in many different places. We often provide support for entire families to improve life at home. Let's work together to deal with various behaviors and difficulty coping.
(631) 212-9351 View (631) 212-9351
Photo of Erika Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Sinai, NY 11766  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with self-esteem, relationship, suicidal urges/thoughts/history, self harm urges/thoughts/history, personal trauma, feeling disconnected/dissociated, impulsivity, over controlled, OCD, BPD, Bipolar Dx, Schizoaffective Dx, interpersonal effectiveness or any behavioral issues and you are looking to experience life being happy, feeling heard and understanding that you matter, then you are my ideal client.
If you are struggling with self-esteem, relationship, suicidal urges/thoughts/history, self harm urges/thoughts/history, personal trauma, feeling disconnected/dissociated, impulsivity, over controlled, OCD, BPD, Bipolar Dx, Schizoaffective Dx, interpersonal effectiveness or any behavioral issues and you are looking to experience life being happy, feeling heard and understanding that you matter, then you are my ideal client.
(516) 550-0737 View (516) 550-0737
Photo of Barbara K Posillico, LCSW, RLCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara K Posillico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RLCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Behavioral issues ( anger management, ADD , truancy, social skills) .
I am a caring and compassionate psychotherapist who works well with adolescents , families , adults and couples. My expertise includes treating depression , anxiety and self esteem issues. My goal is to help each client reach their full potential . I engage my clients with a warm and nonjudgmental style. I use a psychodynamic , cognitive - behavioral approach to create a shift in my clients self awareness . I have over 18 years of expirence and love working with people.
Behavioral issues ( anger management, ADD , truancy, social skills) .
I am a caring and compassionate psychotherapist who works well with adolescents , families , adults and couples. My expertise includes treating depression , anxiety and self esteem issues. My goal is to help each client reach their full potential . I engage my clients with a warm and nonjudgmental style. I use a psychodynamic , cognitive - behavioral approach to create a shift in my clients self awareness . I have over 18 years of expirence and love working with people.
(631) 816-2569 View (631) 816-2569
Seth Roman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Babylon, NY 11702
Using a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques, including play therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Are you seeking support for your child or adolescent who may be struggling? I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a passion for helping young people navigate their emotional and developmental journeys. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Stony Brook University, with a focus on Families, Youth, and Transition to Adulthood. I work with children and teens to help them build the tools they need to identify, process, and communicate their feelings in a healthy way.
Using a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques, including play therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Are you seeking support for your child or adolescent who may be struggling? I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a passion for helping young people navigate their emotional and developmental journeys. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Stony Brook University, with a focus on Families, Youth, and Transition to Adulthood. I work with children and teens to help them build the tools they need to identify, process, and communicate their feelings in a healthy way.
(631) 251-4790 View (631) 251-4790
Photo of Deena Abbe, PhD, Psychologist
Deena Abbe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
Abbe consults with parents and teachers in the origination and implementation of behavioral intervention plans, IFSP Plans, IEP’s, and 504 plans.
Dr. Deena Abbe is a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Clinical and School Psychology, trained as a cognitive- behavioral therapist, who works with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and their families. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Gifted Children, Tourette’s Syndrome, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Social Skills, Separation Anxiety, Behavioral Disorders, Psychiatric Illness, Children from divorced families, Social Phobia, Aggression, and Feeding Therapy
Abbe consults with parents and teachers in the origination and implementation of behavioral intervention plans, IFSP Plans, IEP’s, and 504 plans.
Dr. Deena Abbe is a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Clinical and School Psychology, trained as a cognitive- behavioral therapist, who works with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and their families. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Gifted Children, Tourette’s Syndrome, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Social Skills, Separation Anxiety, Behavioral Disorders, Psychiatric Illness, Children from divorced families, Social Phobia, Aggression, and Feeding Therapy
(631) 212-0861 View (631) 212-0861
Photo of Donna Thiele, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist
Donna Thiele
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holbrook, NY 11741
I use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to provide a customized approach for each client.
You have a unique purpose and carry unique values. But lately, you have found it difficult to find your path and reach your goals. You feel "stuck". I can help you identify the values that are important to you and give you the skills you need to reach those goals. I work with clients who have anxiety, social adjustment issues, have difficulty being "flexible", and caregivers who are struggling to support those with disabilities and behavioral challenges. I make therapy an active, rewarding choice for every person so that he or she feels safe, supported, and confident in his or her decisions.
I use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to provide a customized approach for each client.
You have a unique purpose and carry unique values. But lately, you have found it difficult to find your path and reach your goals. You feel "stuck". I can help you identify the values that are important to you and give you the skills you need to reach those goals. I work with clients who have anxiety, social adjustment issues, have difficulty being "flexible", and caregivers who are struggling to support those with disabilities and behavioral challenges. I make therapy an active, rewarding choice for every person so that he or she feels safe, supported, and confident in his or her decisions.
(631) 830-6597 View (631) 830-6597
Photo of Jay A Hart - Hart to Heart Clinical Counseling Services, PC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hart to Heart Clinical Counseling Services, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holbrook, NY 11741
As social workers, we firmly believe in the transformative force of hope and faith to surmount personal obstacles and attain healing and well-being. Our therapeutic approach aims to cultivate and nurture hope and personal faith, empowering you to achieve your goals and unlock your full potential. Therapy, this practice, encompasses a broad spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, addictions, behavioral and school-related issues, depression, trauma, PTSD, and support for those with chronic medical conditions.
As social workers, we firmly believe in the transformative force of hope and faith to surmount personal obstacles and attain healing and well-being. Our therapeutic approach aims to cultivate and nurture hope and personal faith, empowering you to achieve your goals and unlock your full potential. Therapy, this practice, encompasses a broad spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, addictions, behavioral and school-related issues, depression, trauma, PTSD, and support for those with chronic medical conditions.
(631) 576-4642 View (631) 576-4642
Photo of Brett M. Liquori, PhD, Psychologist
Brett M. Liquori
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11790
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist, specializing in treating children, adolescents, and families using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in homes, schools and the community. CBT treatment is highly recommended for anxiety, impulse, and conduct disorders. While it is well-established that CBT within real-world settings significantly improves functioning compared to office-based treatment, few professionals accept the challenge! As a professional with 20 years of experience traveling to families throughout Long Island, I understand that intense emotions, troubled relationships and significant avoidance cannot simply be discussed away in therapy, but mindfully experienced and addressed when and where they occur.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist, specializing in treating children, adolescents, and families using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in homes, schools and the community. CBT treatment is highly recommended for anxiety, impulse, and conduct disorders. While it is well-established that CBT within real-world settings significantly improves functioning compared to office-based treatment, few professionals accept the challenge! As a professional with 20 years of experience traveling to families throughout Long Island, I understand that intense emotions, troubled relationships and significant avoidance cannot simply be discussed away in therapy, but mindfully experienced and addressed when and where they occur.
(631) 444-5354 View (631) 444-5354
Photo of Nelida Deleon, L, M, H, C
Nelida Deleon
Mental Health Counselor, L, M, H, C
Verified Verified
Mount Sinai, NY 11766
Utilizing my expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I deliver research-backed therapeutic strategy centered on improving lives.
Do you worry that your child is struggling and you are unsure of what to do? Do you find it difficult to manage your own emotions and feel like you're not able to cope? Are impulsive actions and difficulty staying calm in tough situations hindering your ability to reach your goals? I work with children, teens, adults, parents and their families to equip them with essential skills for overcoming these challenges. I can help you learn to manage your emotions better, adopt healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve steady, positive growth.
Utilizing my expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I deliver research-backed therapeutic strategy centered on improving lives.
Do you worry that your child is struggling and you are unsure of what to do? Do you find it difficult to manage your own emotions and feel like you're not able to cope? Are impulsive actions and difficulty staying calm in tough situations hindering your ability to reach your goals? I work with children, teens, adults, parents and their families to equip them with essential skills for overcoming these challenges. I can help you learn to manage your emotions better, adopt healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve steady, positive growth.
(516) 363-3558 View (516) 363-3558
Photo of Scott Silverman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Scott Silverman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I SPECIALIZE IN TEENS&ADULTS - Is your child's behavior causing you to stress out? I have extensive experience treating teens and understand the issues that cause them to bottle up, shut down and become defiant. I WELCOME ADULT PATIENTS-Unhappy? Need to talk? Whether your having marital difficulties, issues with your job or family or issues that you can't seem to solve on your own, there is help available for you. As an experienced therapist/educator I have helped my clients develop a more focused understanding of why they are feeling their feelings and how to heal.
I SPECIALIZE IN TEENS&ADULTS - Is your child's behavior causing you to stress out? I have extensive experience treating teens and understand the issues that cause them to bottle up, shut down and become defiant. I WELCOME ADULT PATIENTS-Unhappy? Need to talk? Whether your having marital difficulties, issues with your job or family or issues that you can't seem to solve on your own, there is help available for you. As an experienced therapist/educator I have helped my clients develop a more focused understanding of why they are feeling their feelings and how to heal.
(516) 252-3355 View (516) 252-3355
Photo of Laura Van Schaick-Harman, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Van Schaick-Harman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Patchogue, NY 11772  (Online Only)
Treatment is available for anxiety disorders, compulsive behavior, ADHD, learning disabilities, stress, behavior problems, parenting concerns, trichotillomania (hair pulling), and Tourette's/Tic Disorder.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I love helping people set and reach short and long term goals, experience happiness, and effectively manage and accept negative emotions. I really enjoy helping people to identify, accept, and overcome anxiety. While we all experience anxiety during our lives, it is important to learn the difference between real and imagined dangers, to be able to approach new experiences even if we are scared, and to live a life free from the damaging and smothering aspects of anxiety related disorders.
Treatment is available for anxiety disorders, compulsive behavior, ADHD, learning disabilities, stress, behavior problems, parenting concerns, trichotillomania (hair pulling), and Tourette's/Tic Disorder.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I love helping people set and reach short and long term goals, experience happiness, and effectively manage and accept negative emotions. I really enjoy helping people to identify, accept, and overcome anxiety. While we all experience anxiety during our lives, it is important to learn the difference between real and imagined dangers, to be able to approach new experiences even if we are scared, and to live a life free from the damaging and smothering aspects of anxiety related disorders.
(631) 593-0420 View (631) 593-0420
Photo of Tara Nystrom - Tranquility Wellness Therapy LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tranquility Wellness Therapy LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Holbrook, NY 11741
I can also provide some parenting education and explore various behavioral strategies that might help to manage severe behavioral issues.
I have been working with individuals who experience family conflicts, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, substance use, infertility issues, and more, for the past 10 years. I previously worked for Child Protective Services for 8 years and have knowledge of child abuse and neglect concerns, court matters, and custody issues. I worked with an intensive family program (HCBS Waiver) that focused on youths with severe emotional and behavioral issues for 5 years. I also have a Masters Degree in School Counseling, which has given me vast knowledge in CSE proceedings, educational laws, and academic requirements.
I can also provide some parenting education and explore various behavioral strategies that might help to manage severe behavioral issues.
I have been working with individuals who experience family conflicts, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, substance use, infertility issues, and more, for the past 10 years. I previously worked for Child Protective Services for 8 years and have knowledge of child abuse and neglect concerns, court matters, and custody issues. I worked with an intensive family program (HCBS Waiver) that focused on youths with severe emotional and behavioral issues for 5 years. I also have a Masters Degree in School Counseling, which has given me vast knowledge in CSE proceedings, educational laws, and academic requirements.
(631) 983-6267 View (631) 983-6267
Photo of Andrew Parisi, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Parisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years experience in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders and personality disorders but also treat behavioral issues, anger management, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. My philosophy on addiction recovery is rooted in the 12 steps. I prefer an eclectic approach when it comes to treatment in order to foster growth and promote self-awareness. I am reality based and have a genuine desire to help individuals grow emotionally and spiritually in order to get results with their difficulties while offering unconditional acceptance versus enabling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years experience in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders and personality disorders but also treat behavioral issues, anger management, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. My philosophy on addiction recovery is rooted in the 12 steps. I prefer an eclectic approach when it comes to treatment in order to foster growth and promote self-awareness. I am reality based and have a genuine desire to help individuals grow emotionally and spiritually in order to get results with their difficulties while offering unconditional acceptance versus enabling.
(631) 830-0059 View (631) 830-0059
Photo of Lynn Marie Marrone, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Marie Marrone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I integrate motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapeutic techniques and coping strategies to facilitate a healthier sense of wellbeing.
"All the concepts about stepping out of your comfort zone mean nothing until you decide that your essential purpose, vision and goals are more important than your self-imposed limitations." Robert White
I integrate motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapeutic techniques and coping strategies to facilitate a healthier sense of wellbeing.
"All the concepts about stepping out of your comfort zone mean nothing until you decide that your essential purpose, vision and goals are more important than your self-imposed limitations." Robert White
(516) 963-2843 View (516) 963-2843
Photo of Stephen Mrozik, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephen Mrozik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with children and families on behavioral modification, communication skills, and managing marital/ relational issues.
There are many times in life where we just feel "stuck." Whether that be at work, in our relationships, or just finding the motivation to get through the day, sometimes it can feel insurmountable. Together we can work to push forward and find ways to become "unstuck" in your life. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to identify your goals and the pathways to get to them. Additionally, we will learn ways to adjust your perspective which can be a powerful means to change your way of thinking, and mood, for the better.
I specialize in working with children and families on behavioral modification, communication skills, and managing marital/ relational issues.
There are many times in life where we just feel "stuck." Whether that be at work, in our relationships, or just finding the motivation to get through the day, sometimes it can feel insurmountable. Together we can work to push forward and find ways to become "unstuck" in your life. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to identify your goals and the pathways to get to them. Additionally, we will learn ways to adjust your perspective which can be a powerful means to change your way of thinking, and mood, for the better.
(516) 604-5025 View (516) 604-5025
Photo of Carrie Gardino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Gardino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Babylon, NY 11702
Behavioral Health Counseling currently has two locations in Babylon Village, including a newly remodeled counseling center.
As a Clinician, with 17+ years' experience, I have an extensive background in working with children, adolescents, and families facing a range of stressors from mild relationship conflict to more intense mental health symptom management. My specialties include behavior modification and parent skills training to create long term change, strengthen relationships and foster motivation-based behavior compliance. At Behavioral Health Counseling our therapists provide evidenced-based, goal-oriented treatment to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Treatment and Behavior Plans are individualized to meet each patient’s need.
Behavioral Health Counseling currently has two locations in Babylon Village, including a newly remodeled counseling center.
As a Clinician, with 17+ years' experience, I have an extensive background in working with children, adolescents, and families facing a range of stressors from mild relationship conflict to more intense mental health symptom management. My specialties include behavior modification and parent skills training to create long term change, strengthen relationships and foster motivation-based behavior compliance. At Behavioral Health Counseling our therapists provide evidenced-based, goal-oriented treatment to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Treatment and Behavior Plans are individualized to meet each patient’s need.
(631) 526-9482 View (631) 526-9482
Photo of Renee C Lee, Behavio, Analyst, BCBA, LBA
Renee C Lee
Behavio, Analyst, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Illuminating Steps LLC serves individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities who present a variety of needs (intellectual disability, physical disability, challenging behavior, social deficits, communication deficits, etc.). We utilize the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ​ABA, at its core, involves an umbrella of teaching methodologies, including incidental teaching, discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, and verbal behavior. ​Illuminating Steps delivers success step by step.
Illuminating Steps LLC serves individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities who present a variety of needs (intellectual disability, physical disability, challenging behavior, social deficits, communication deficits, etc.). We utilize the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ​ABA, at its core, involves an umbrella of teaching methodologies, including incidental teaching, discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, and verbal behavior. ​Illuminating Steps delivers success step by step.
(631) 883-5574 View (631) 883-5574
Photo of Samantha Quinn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I utilize various modalities, some include Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and a Psychodynamic Therapy.
You’ve come to the right place. Asking for help is such a big step and can be so challenging for so many. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues, I can help. I provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients to identify, understand and heal. Depending on the individual, we’d use evidenced based treatments to bridge you to a place where you’re feeling better and able to experience joy in your life.
I utilize various modalities, some include Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and a Psychodynamic Therapy.
You’ve come to the right place. Asking for help is such a big step and can be so challenging for so many. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues, I can help. I provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients to identify, understand and heal. Depending on the individual, we’d use evidenced based treatments to bridge you to a place where you’re feeling better and able to experience joy in your life.
(631) 651-1613 View (631) 651-1613
Photo of Lisa D Hamada, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa D Hamada
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, NY 11768
Ready to be accountable for your behavior and change bad habits that have been holding you back? My counseling approach is straight-forward but effective and can help anyone who is willing to push through discomfort to make some real changes.
Anxiety and depression can make life difficult to tackle at times. Let me help you to think differently, by providing the support you need to move out of your comfort zone. Build your self-awareness of what needs to change and accept ownership. Learn to identify your triggers to improve how you feel while learning new skills to communicate with others. I am able to work with the individual, couple or family that wants to set new goals for a healthier future. I provide straightforward guidance that will change your life & improve your relationship with your partner or family, now is the time to take the first BIG step into therapy.
Ready to be accountable for your behavior and change bad habits that have been holding you back? My counseling approach is straight-forward but effective and can help anyone who is willing to push through discomfort to make some real changes.
Anxiety and depression can make life difficult to tackle at times. Let me help you to think differently, by providing the support you need to move out of your comfort zone. Build your self-awareness of what needs to change and accept ownership. Learn to identify your triggers to improve how you feel while learning new skills to communicate with others. I am able to work with the individual, couple or family that wants to set new goals for a healthier future. I provide straightforward guidance that will change your life & improve your relationship with your partner or family, now is the time to take the first BIG step into therapy.
(631) 651-6603 View (631) 651-6603
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See more therapy options for Suffolk County

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.