Behavioral Issues Therapists in Squirrel Hill, PA

Photo of Colin O'Grady, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colin O'Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
I utilize an eclectic counseling approach drawing upon a variety of counseling interventions when working with clients with a specific focus on Gestalt Therapy (unfinished business-insight), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (irrational thoughts), and Person Centered Therapy (compassionate facilitator).
****Teletherapy Available****Hello and nice to meet you. I look forward to supporting your journey of problem solving, gaining insight and living a fuller life. Are your family members practicing "unhealthy" communication habits? Is your child, adolescent or college age student struggling in school? If so, counseling may be an option. I am a former School Counselor for 12 years, so I am well versed in a variety of school related issues such as academic and career counseling and personal or social difficulties.
I utilize an eclectic counseling approach drawing upon a variety of counseling interventions when working with clients with a specific focus on Gestalt Therapy (unfinished business-insight), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (irrational thoughts), and Person Centered Therapy (compassionate facilitator).
****Teletherapy Available****Hello and nice to meet you. I look forward to supporting your journey of problem solving, gaining insight and living a fuller life. Are your family members practicing "unhealthy" communication habits? Is your child, adolescent or college age student struggling in school? If so, counseling may be an option. I am a former School Counselor for 12 years, so I am well versed in a variety of school related issues such as academic and career counseling and personal or social difficulties.
(724) 620-4909 View (724) 620-4909
Photo of David Mente, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Mente
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
In addition to the insurance plans listed below, I am also now accepting Allegheny Health Choice clients (Community Care Behavioral Health).
I have been working as a psychotherapist for over 30 years. Having a respectful, productive working relationship with my clients is my first priority. This is true whether I am working with an adult individual, a couple, children, adolescents or families. I will encourage you to evaluate whether you are improving in the ways that you desire and will strive to provide you with treatment which suits you. I have intentionally worked in a wide variety of settings and with many different kinds of clients and problems. I welcome any questions you have and offer a free initial consultation.
In addition to the insurance plans listed below, I am also now accepting Allegheny Health Choice clients (Community Care Behavioral Health).
I have been working as a psychotherapist for over 30 years. Having a respectful, productive working relationship with my clients is my first priority. This is true whether I am working with an adult individual, a couple, children, adolescents or families. I will encourage you to evaluate whether you are improving in the ways that you desire and will strive to provide you with treatment which suits you. I have intentionally worked in a wide variety of settings and with many different kinds of clients and problems. I welcome any questions you have and offer a free initial consultation.
(412) 532-1602 View (412) 532-1602
Photo of Molly Mitchell, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I draw from a combination of Gestalt Therapy, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavior theories.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach.
I draw from a combination of Gestalt Therapy, Interpersonal, and Cognitive Behavior theories.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach.
(412) 888-0467 View (412) 888-0467
Photo of Leigh Montgomery, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Waitlist for Fall 2024 - Hello! I provide a warm, non judgmental environment for you to explore your thoughts, habits and behavior holding you back from achieving authentic happiness. I specialize in working with adults with ADHD, anxiety and with the effects of addiction. ADHD impacts all areas of your life and my goal is to help you get your life back on track, restore hope and work towards inner peace. I also have an interest in helping individuals deal with depression, and newly diagnosed illnesses specifically multiple sclerosis. Having lived on 3 continents I work with clients struggling with change and life transitions.
Waitlist for Fall 2024 - Hello! I provide a warm, non judgmental environment for you to explore your thoughts, habits and behavior holding you back from achieving authentic happiness. I specialize in working with adults with ADHD, anxiety and with the effects of addiction. ADHD impacts all areas of your life and my goal is to help you get your life back on track, restore hope and work towards inner peace. I also have an interest in helping individuals deal with depression, and newly diagnosed illnesses specifically multiple sclerosis. Having lived on 3 continents I work with clients struggling with change and life transitions.
(878) 206-1965 View (878) 206-1965
Photo of Jennifer Black, MSPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
While I work closely with each individual person to develop a customized treatment plan, I utilize evidence-based approaches such as (not limited to) cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed treatment modalities including EMDR.
Life presents us with a variety of stressors and demands that at times may feel difficult to manage. Experiencing loss, depression, anxiety, or memories of disturbing past events may feel overwhelming and prevent us from fully living in the present. Or, we may feel stuck and unsure of what to do next. If you are experiencing similar challenges, I want to help you to process them, identify strengths, and utilize those strengths to heal. I will provide a safe, supportive, judgment-free space for you to share your story, help you to be present focused, and cope with difficult emotions and situations.
(878) 217-8245 View (878) 217-8245
Photo of Sydney Stephenson, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
(412) 214-8961 View (412) 214-8961
Photo of Nancy Aranson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Aranson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Sometimes life and its transitions can be too much and leave us feeling, anxious, depressed or overwhelmed. I’m here to help and let you know there is hope. Therapy is more than just telling someone your problems. It is a way to process what is happening in your life and how you are feeling, and also learn new ways to cope and grow. I am here to listen and support you, by bringing my experience and knowledge to your unique situation. Please call me for a free 20-minute consultation.
Sometimes life and its transitions can be too much and leave us feeling, anxious, depressed or overwhelmed. I’m here to help and let you know there is hope. Therapy is more than just telling someone your problems. It is a way to process what is happening in your life and how you are feeling, and also learn new ways to cope and grow. I am here to listen and support you, by bringing my experience and knowledge to your unique situation. Please call me for a free 20-minute consultation.
(412) 547-5692 View (412) 547-5692
Photo of Gwen F Melnick, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen F Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
(412) 356-9859 View (412) 356-9859
Photo of Michelle Gressem - Just A Little Talk Integrated Services LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Just A Little Talk Integrated Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Through trust, honesty and confidentiality, my goal is to empower individuals with tools to use their inner strength to overcome those stumbling blocks within. I aim to develop self sufficiency, sustainability, and resiliency to allow individuals to meet the challenges of life well after engaging with this agency.
Through trust, honesty and confidentiality, my goal is to empower individuals with tools to use their inner strength to overcome those stumbling blocks within. I aim to develop self sufficiency, sustainability, and resiliency to allow individuals to meet the challenges of life well after engaging with this agency.
(412) 214-7032 View (412) 214-7032
Photo of Nicholas Demaio, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas Demaio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
**I am not currently accepting new clients** With a contemplative model of engagement, and honoring the immediate moment, I am dedicated to offering a compassionate and vibrant therapeutic relationship to those seeking support. Whether facing depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, trauma or struggling with life transitions or addiction, the healing process begins just the same: right where we are. Contemplative psychotherapy and mindfulness practices include insights from behavioral-cognitive therapy, guided imagery, breath work and narrative therapy.
**I am not currently accepting new clients** With a contemplative model of engagement, and honoring the immediate moment, I am dedicated to offering a compassionate and vibrant therapeutic relationship to those seeking support. Whether facing depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, trauma or struggling with life transitions or addiction, the healing process begins just the same: right where we are. Contemplative psychotherapy and mindfulness practices include insights from behavioral-cognitive therapy, guided imagery, breath work and narrative therapy.
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Photo of Marisa Costa, MET, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisa Costa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MET, LPC
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
**I am not currently accepting new clients** Each of us has intrinsic worth and our hearts and psyches have the ability to heal. My work with adults of all ages draws on the expressive arts, motivational and strengths-based therapies and cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed therapies. One of my passions has been exploring the ways in which the expressive arts - visual art, drama, music, movement, writing - touch us deeply and express emotions for which there may simply be no words. Where the response to suffering is compassion and hope, the goals of the individual - not the therapist - inspire the therapeutic process.
**I am not currently accepting new clients** Each of us has intrinsic worth and our hearts and psyches have the ability to heal. My work with adults of all ages draws on the expressive arts, motivational and strengths-based therapies and cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed therapies. One of my passions has been exploring the ways in which the expressive arts - visual art, drama, music, movement, writing - touch us deeply and express emotions for which there may simply be no words. Where the response to suffering is compassion and hope, the goals of the individual - not the therapist - inspire the therapeutic process.
(412) 532-1356 View (412) 532-1356
Photo of Deborah Sharp Molchan, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Sharp Molchan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
I engage in a variety of methods including cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, strength-based psychotherapy and mind-body applications.
** Currently not accepting new clients. ** I believe you can promote wellness in your life. I have deep respect for the client's I work with and believe choosing therapy is a healthy act of growth. My style is to create a collaborative, respectful, and compassionate relationship in which we explore both your challenges and your strengths. I emphasize a whole-person integrative treatment plan utilizing evidence-based interventions and complimentary approaches as appropriate.
I engage in a variety of methods including cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, strength-based psychotherapy and mind-body applications.
** Currently not accepting new clients. ** I believe you can promote wellness in your life. I have deep respect for the client's I work with and believe choosing therapy is a healthy act of growth. My style is to create a collaborative, respectful, and compassionate relationship in which we explore both your challenges and your strengths. I emphasize a whole-person integrative treatment plan utilizing evidence-based interventions and complimentary approaches as appropriate.
(412) 312-4177 View (412) 312-4177
Photo of Dr. Darla Timbo, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Darla Timbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am committed to providing experienced and compassionate services such as; individual and group counseling services and psycho-education to individuals in all stages in life that will help clients to gain insight into their personal, social, emotional, and physical "world". The counseling services are based on the philosophical assumption that focusing on the present will help clients to overcome the past and prepare for the future through establishing healthy goals.
I am committed to providing experienced and compassionate services such as; individual and group counseling services and psycho-education to individuals in all stages in life that will help clients to gain insight into their personal, social, emotional, and physical "world". The counseling services are based on the philosophical assumption that focusing on the present will help clients to overcome the past and prepare for the future through establishing healthy goals.
(412) 357-1547 View (412) 357-1547
Photo of Sarah C Trafican, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah C Trafican
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
It is possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable life challenges and find stability. Psychotherapy can light the way from chaos and hopelessness towards self-acceptance, meaning, and control. Focused on your individual needs, I strive to create a time and space which is entirely yours. A safe, private, well-bounded space where honest and intimate discussions can take place. For the past 12 years, I have been working with a diverse mixture of individuals and couples using primarily psychoanalytic techniques. My aim is not simply to facilitate symptom relief, but to midwife meaningful and positive changes in your life.
It is possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable life challenges and find stability. Psychotherapy can light the way from chaos and hopelessness towards self-acceptance, meaning, and control. Focused on your individual needs, I strive to create a time and space which is entirely yours. A safe, private, well-bounded space where honest and intimate discussions can take place. For the past 12 years, I have been working with a diverse mixture of individuals and couples using primarily psychoanalytic techniques. My aim is not simply to facilitate symptom relief, but to midwife meaningful and positive changes in your life.
(814) 303-5880 View (814) 303-5880

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Molly Gordon, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I use evidence-based theories to help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma disorders, & general behavioral challenges.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and families to understand, accept, and overcome challenges related to their mental health. I support my clients and their families by collaborating every step of the way to process emotions, create attainable goals, learn new skills, and improve everyday behaviors and routines across home, school, and community environments.
I use evidence-based theories to help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma disorders, & general behavioral challenges.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and families to understand, accept, and overcome challenges related to their mental health. I support my clients and their families by collaborating every step of the way to process emotions, create attainable goals, learn new skills, and improve everyday behaviors and routines across home, school, and community environments.
(412) 275-5326 View (412) 275-5326
Photo of Jodi Affuso, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jodi Affuso
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
Jodi is a Master’s level clinician in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is LGBTQ+ allied, gender affirming, trauma informed, and dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere for all clients. Jodi draws from a variety of techniques in her client-centered approach. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma and solution-based approaches help her connect with clients where they are now, in order to help them get to where they want to be.
Jodi is a Master’s level clinician in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is LGBTQ+ allied, gender affirming, trauma informed, and dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere for all clients. Jodi draws from a variety of techniques in her client-centered approach. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma and solution-based approaches help her connect with clients where they are now, in order to help them get to where they want to be.
(412) 990-1628 View (412) 990-1628
Photo of Vanessa Talkington Michael - Psychological Perspectives LLC, Psychologist
Psychological Perspectives LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15207
We assess concerns for social, emotional, and behavioral health needs.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
We assess concerns for social, emotional, and behavioral health needs.
Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
(412) 275-6939 View (412) 275-6939
Photo of Liana Scalise, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liana Scalise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I rely on evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while using a strength-based Solution Focused approach and incorporating the Stages of Change.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.
I rely on evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while using a strength-based Solution Focused approach and incorporating the Stages of Change.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.
(717) 915-5883 View (717) 915-5883
Photo of Sara Rothstein, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Rothstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I use a holistic, client-centered approach, drawing on behavioral, interpretive and solution-focused models to improve your life.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don’t leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office – whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
I use a holistic, client-centered approach, drawing on behavioral, interpretive and solution-focused models to improve your life.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don’t leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office – whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
(412) 516-3389 View (412) 516-3389
Photo of Jenna Mates, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenna Mates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with managing their emotional, behavioral, and social needs. I know that therapy can be initially uncomfortable and/or anxiety provoking, yet I create a safe and supportive space for my patients. The therapeutic relationship is extremely important in my practice, as I believe that we need to work together in order to meet your goals. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, schools, and other medical professionals. I utilize various approaches and interventions to target each individual's needs and to create the best treatment for you.
I work with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with managing their emotional, behavioral, and social needs. I know that therapy can be initially uncomfortable and/or anxiety provoking, yet I create a safe and supportive space for my patients. The therapeutic relationship is extremely important in my practice, as I believe that we need to work together in order to meet your goals. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, schools, and other medical professionals. I utilize various approaches and interventions to target each individual's needs and to create the best treatment for you.
(412) 784-6218 View (412) 784-6218

See more therapy options for Squirrel Hill

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.