Behavioral Issues Therapists in Maryville, TN

Photo of Jordan Haynes, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Haynes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
My experience has given me the confidence to work with, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral & school issues.
Welcome! For the past seven years, my passion has been to help facilitate personal growth in young children, adolescents, and teens. My primary focus is to be someone you can turn to in a time of need. The stress of growing up in today's ever-changing society can be overwhelming. I would like to join you on your journey to develop the skills necessary to overcome those stressors by teaching you the skills needed. I like to practice from an unconditional, supportive therapist role, in a relaxing environment. I am dedicated to using all my resources to help achieve peace & happiness in your lives!
My experience has given me the confidence to work with, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral & school issues.
Welcome! For the past seven years, my passion has been to help facilitate personal growth in young children, adolescents, and teens. My primary focus is to be someone you can turn to in a time of need. The stress of growing up in today's ever-changing society can be overwhelming. I would like to join you on your journey to develop the skills necessary to overcome those stressors by teaching you the skills needed. I like to practice from an unconditional, supportive therapist role, in a relaxing environment. I am dedicated to using all my resources to help achieve peace & happiness in your lives!
(865) 205-6277 View (865) 205-6277
Photo of Suzi Miller - Suzi Miller, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzi Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I work with children ages 5 and up, trauma victims, behavior problems, ADHD, parenting, domestic violence perpetrators, anger management as well as people of different cultures and faiths.
Are you or your child needing guidance in expressing your FEELINGS and EMOTIONS appropriately? Does your child prefer an alternative approach utilizing ART and PLAY therapy? Do you or someone you know need help in making challenging decisions while being in alignment with your FAITH? Would you like to talk to someone who is CALM and NON-JUDGMENTAL? Have you or someone you know been dealing with issues of GRIEF and need someone to listen and help you navigate through the grief process?
I work with children ages 5 and up, trauma victims, behavior problems, ADHD, parenting, domestic violence perpetrators, anger management as well as people of different cultures and faiths.
Are you or your child needing guidance in expressing your FEELINGS and EMOTIONS appropriately? Does your child prefer an alternative approach utilizing ART and PLAY therapy? Do you or someone you know need help in making challenging decisions while being in alignment with your FAITH? Would you like to talk to someone who is CALM and NON-JUDGMENTAL? Have you or someone you know been dealing with issues of GRIEF and need someone to listen and help you navigate through the grief process?
(865) 205-9910 View (865) 205-9910
Photo of Cynthia Searcy Crawford, PhD, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Searcy Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
I have used child-centered play and art therapies with children and adolescents since 2003, with positive behavioral outcomes observed in both groups.
I have devoted my life to working with children and adolescents. My experiences as a mother, K-12 teacher, elementary school counselor, school psychologist, and therapist have prepared me to work with youth who demonstrate a range of problems at school, home, and play. My clients are often depressed, have severe behavioral problems, have trouble making friends, demonstrate symptoms of anxiety, or have been victims of abuse or trauma. I believe all clients have within themselves the capacity for growth and positive change, provided the proper conditions in an environment of unconditional acceptance and self-worth.
I have used child-centered play and art therapies with children and adolescents since 2003, with positive behavioral outcomes observed in both groups.
I have devoted my life to working with children and adolescents. My experiences as a mother, K-12 teacher, elementary school counselor, school psychologist, and therapist have prepared me to work with youth who demonstrate a range of problems at school, home, and play. My clients are often depressed, have severe behavioral problems, have trouble making friends, demonstrate symptoms of anxiety, or have been victims of abuse or trauma. I believe all clients have within themselves the capacity for growth and positive change, provided the proper conditions in an environment of unconditional acceptance and self-worth.
(865) 409-1623 View (865) 409-1623
Photo of Jo Clark, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
(865) 290-2026 View (865) 290-2026
Photo of Megan Marcus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Marcus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but will also draw from my knowledge of mindfulness, solution focused therapy and ACT.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but will also draw from my knowledge of mindfulness, solution focused therapy and ACT.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
(865) 205-6912 View (865) 205-6912
Photo of Hope C Reneau - The Middle Path. Intensive Outpatient Ages 10+, LCSW, LICSWCP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Middle Path. Intensive Outpatient Ages 10+
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSWCP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Growing up and not learning how to regulate your emotions may cause misery and suffering. We offer intensive Group, DBT and holistic therapy, 3 days a week, 3 hours a day of DBT group therapy online or in person from ages 10-65+, for 7.5 weeks (24 sessions). Located in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Maryville, Tri-Cities. Our holistic program teaches the Four Core Skills of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. "DBT" is an evidenced based treatment that teaches step by step to reduce impulsivity and reactivity. Our groups take place in a "Spa like", home environment. You may self-refer: themiddlepath.life Starting at age 6 to adult.
Growing up and not learning how to regulate your emotions may cause misery and suffering. We offer intensive Group, DBT and holistic therapy, 3 days a week, 3 hours a day of DBT group therapy online or in person from ages 10-65+, for 7.5 weeks (24 sessions). Located in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Maryville, Tri-Cities. Our holistic program teaches the Four Core Skills of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. "DBT" is an evidenced based treatment that teaches step by step to reduce impulsivity and reactivity. Our groups take place in a "Spa like", home environment. You may self-refer: themiddlepath.life Starting at age 6 to adult.
(423) 269-8900 View (423) 269-8900
Photo of Heather Webb, MEd, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
My therapeutic approach consists of knowledge regarding the diagnosis,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Orientated Guidance, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, DBT, ABA and genuine concern,care and concentration for each client.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
My therapeutic approach consists of knowledge regarding the diagnosis,Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Orientated Guidance, Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness and Meditation, DBT, ABA and genuine concern,care and concentration for each client.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
(865) 217-2692 View (865) 217-2692
Photo of Tim Sutherland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I've worked extensively w clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, couple's issues, parenting/step-parenting struggles, & behavior problems w kids & teenagers.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
I've worked extensively w clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, couple's issues, parenting/step-parenting struggles, & behavior problems w kids & teenagers.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
(865) 285-7339 View (865) 285-7339
Photo of Mark H. Barnes, PhD, Psychologist
Mark H. Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
(865) 275-5913 View (865) 275-5913
Photo of Mary Helen Lyle-Joiner, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Helen Lyle-Joiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Effective therapy calls for thoughtful approaches to suit your specific needs. I offer evidence based interventions and tools to build a safe, whole, and happy life. With mindful care, I help clients work through issues related to: anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, abuse, self-esteem, behavioral issues,anger management, reactive attachment, sexual maladaptive behavior, impulse control. I have over a decade of experience in mental health.
Effective therapy calls for thoughtful approaches to suit your specific needs. I offer evidence based interventions and tools to build a safe, whole, and happy life. With mindful care, I help clients work through issues related to: anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, abuse, self-esteem, behavioral issues,anger management, reactive attachment, sexual maladaptive behavior, impulse control. I have over a decade of experience in mental health.
(865) 816-3166 View (865) 816-3166
Photo of Jarrod L Justice, LMFT, NCC, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jarrod L Justice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37803
I value treating clients in a holistic way, and use a variety of researched-based approaches to counseling: family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, group therapy, and narrative therapy.
Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) in the heart of Knoxville who works with college students, young professionals, dating couples, marriages, and families. I provide counseling for both men and women, who need help with: anxiety, depression, stress, new romantic relationships, relational problems, communication, conflict resolution, physical intimacy issues, sexual health concerns, parenting concerns, family dynamics, addictions, career-path decisions, premarital counseling, and life transitions.
I value treating clients in a holistic way, and use a variety of researched-based approaches to counseling: family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, group therapy, and narrative therapy.
Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) in the heart of Knoxville who works with college students, young professionals, dating couples, marriages, and families. I provide counseling for both men and women, who need help with: anxiety, depression, stress, new romantic relationships, relational problems, communication, conflict resolution, physical intimacy issues, sexual health concerns, parenting concerns, family dynamics, addictions, career-path decisions, premarital counseling, and life transitions.
(865) 269-6516 View (865) 269-6516
Photo of Matt DeHart, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matt DeHart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including a family systems perspective, narrative therapy, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
All of us can find ourselves in a difficult, confusing, or even painful point in our lives. Or maybe we just see a particular area in which we want to grow. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families to help them navigate through those parts of life. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual concerns, a difficult loss, or you are navigating a new chapter in your life, I would love to be able to help. I want to help you sort through those challenges and leverage your unique strengths to meet them.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including a family systems perspective, narrative therapy, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
All of us can find ourselves in a difficult, confusing, or even painful point in our lives. Or maybe we just see a particular area in which we want to grow. I work with teens, adults, couples, and families to help them navigate through those parts of life. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual concerns, a difficult loss, or you are navigating a new chapter in your life, I would love to be able to help. I want to help you sort through those challenges and leverage your unique strengths to meet them.
(865) 344-2241 View (865) 344-2241
Photo of Shantel Shockey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shantel Shockey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I generally work from a systemic perspective, but I will adapt other theoretical orientations based on what helps my clients the most, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as integration of different therapy models.
I enjoy working with children, couples, families, and individuals; and I have a passion to help people overcome or cope with issues that keep them stuck and unable to enjoy their life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I work to help individuals, as well as couples and families, to heal and flourish by working together to identify concerns, and by listening carefully to them to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed to fit their needs.
I generally work from a systemic perspective, but I will adapt other theoretical orientations based on what helps my clients the most, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as integration of different therapy models.
I enjoy working with children, couples, families, and individuals; and I have a passion to help people overcome or cope with issues that keep them stuck and unable to enjoy their life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and I work to help individuals, as well as couples and families, to heal and flourish by working together to identify concerns, and by listening carefully to them to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed to fit their needs.
(865) 568-8118 View (865) 568-8118
Photo of Matthew Gumb, MS, LPC, MHSP, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Gumb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37803
Waitlist for new clients
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
Matthew Gumb brings years of experience in his counseling work with adults, children, and adolescents. Working to help individuals and families that suffer with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, anger management, inattentive/impulsive behavior, as well as other issues. His primary theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Existentialism and Person-Centered. Matthew also has trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Inference Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for assisting individuals with OCD.
(865) 674-4914 View (865) 674-4914
Photo of Haven Counseling Center - Haven Counseling Center, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
(865) 344-2355 View (865) 344-2355
Photo of Sarah Williamson, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
I use dialectical behavior therapy, CBT, client centered therapy, and SFBT.
I hope to work with you to make the next steps on the road to improving yourself. We can work together on recognizing unhelpful thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and discover new ways to overcome them. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship is based on trust, honesty, and a mutual interest in the betterment of your life.
(865) 535-7838 View (865) 535-7838
Photo of John Chandler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
“If you do what you have always done, you will get what you always got.” Are you tired of being stuck in the same old cycles? Whether the problem is self-sabotaging behavior, feelings of worthlessness, constant family squabbling, or the like, let me help you break free from the madness and put you on a path to mental and emotional wellness. I will come along side you with encouraging insight, practical wisdom and competent care to jumpstart your journey to become your very best self.
“If you do what you have always done, you will get what you always got.” Are you tired of being stuck in the same old cycles? Whether the problem is self-sabotaging behavior, feelings of worthlessness, constant family squabbling, or the like, let me help you break free from the madness and put you on a path to mental and emotional wellness. I will come along side you with encouraging insight, practical wisdom and competent care to jumpstart your journey to become your very best self.
(865) 432-1015 View (865) 432-1015
Photo of Derick Daniels, Pre-Licensed Professional
Derick Daniels
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
He integrates cognitive behavioral therapy and many other counseling techniques to support clients and cater to their specific needs.
Derick is a graduate clinician pursuing a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. He graduated with a bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis from Troy University in 2020. He has a strong passion for counseling and works with individuals (16+), couples, families, and groups.
He integrates cognitive behavioral therapy and many other counseling techniques to support clients and cater to their specific needs.
Derick is a graduate clinician pursuing a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. He graduated with a bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis from Troy University in 2020. He has a strong passion for counseling and works with individuals (16+), couples, families, and groups.
(865) 412-4404 View (865) 412-4404
Photo of Stephanie McClanahan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie McClanahan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37802
I work as a therapist using approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
I work as a therapist using approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
(865) 432-6963 View (865) 432-6963
Photo of Micah Riley, MDiv, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Micah Riley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
I love counseling work with adults, adolescents, children (5 y/o+), and couples. Walking along with those experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, unwanted pornography habits, and spiritual concerns. I believe clients are unique in what they need from therapy. I tailor my work to the individual and integrate different approaches as they are helpful, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment theory, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
I love counseling work with adults, adolescents, children (5 y/o+), and couples. Walking along with those experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, unwanted pornography habits, and spiritual concerns. I believe clients are unique in what they need from therapy. I tailor my work to the individual and integrate different approaches as they are helpful, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment theory, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(865) 234-3392 View (865) 234-3392
1
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.