Behavioral Issues Therapists in Kent, WA
![Photo of Brianna Trier, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f91e92ed-f478-49a1-a142-f6aeebfbfedf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My go to counseling theories are Person Centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Counseling.
Life doesn't always turn out like we expected or planned. All of us experience different degrees of struggle on our individual journey. Over the last 8 years I have been working with adolescents, teens, college students, adults and athletes in areas of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions and much more. I believe people who struggle with anxiety and depression can thrive when they have a safe place to process what they are feeling. I believe that being present on your path, growing toward your goals and healing any past or present hurt can help you be the very best version of yourself.
My go to counseling theories are Person Centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Counseling.
Life doesn't always turn out like we expected or planned. All of us experience different degrees of struggle on our individual journey. Over the last 8 years I have been working with adolescents, teens, college students, adults and athletes in areas of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions and much more. I believe people who struggle with anxiety and depression can thrive when they have a safe place to process what they are feeling. I believe that being present on your path, growing toward your goals and healing any past or present hurt can help you be the very best version of yourself.
![Photo of Diana Payseno, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d703bef-a540-4212-979d-a375f71b0846/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a practical and goal-oriented technique that helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
I specialize in supporting individuals aged 5 and above who are navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant life changes. My approach is rooted in a holistic perspective, addressing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. I understand the desire for freedom, peace, and personal growth that drives my clients. Together, we explore effective coping strategies and therapeutic modalities tailored to their unique needs. My goal is to empower you to cultivate resilience and achieve balance in your life.
My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a practical and goal-oriented technique that helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
I specialize in supporting individuals aged 5 and above who are navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant life changes. My approach is rooted in a holistic perspective, addressing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. I understand the desire for freedom, peace, and personal growth that drives my clients. Together, we explore effective coping strategies and therapeutic modalities tailored to their unique needs. My goal is to empower you to cultivate resilience and achieve balance in your life.
![Photo of Gary M Marcus, PhD, CRC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9252f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years of experience providing practical, brief, solution-focused therapy. My therapy style is interactive with frequent feedback and coaching. I treat depression and anxiety disorders (Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder). I provide couple/marital therapy and work with relationship issues. I work exclusively with adults. I use evidence based treatment approaches to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and couple/family issues. I help clients adjust to difficult life events and circumstances. My orientation is cognitive behavioral.
I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years of experience providing practical, brief, solution-focused therapy. My therapy style is interactive with frequent feedback and coaching. I treat depression and anxiety disorders (Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder). I provide couple/marital therapy and work with relationship issues. I work exclusively with adults. I use evidence based treatment approaches to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and couple/family issues. I help clients adjust to difficult life events and circumstances. My orientation is cognitive behavioral.
![Photo of Brandon B Hoggans - Life Guide Northwest PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4929036b-8f18-4fb6-b4a9-001c39b26142/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
![Photo of Swati Gupta, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8203a737-fd51-4773-838e-23d04a78df89/2/320x400.jpeg)
I embrace person-centered and tailoring interventions to each client's unique needs and preferences by drawing from a range of modalities including psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and existential approaches.
I am a licensed mental health clinician with over 4 years of experience, I specialize in working with teens and adults. I am a bilingual therapist who had the privilege to work with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Currently, I offer virtual therapy and support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, identity crisis, OCD, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space, I strive to meet my clients where they are in the present moment, allowing us to work collaboratively towards their goals.
I embrace person-centered and tailoring interventions to each client's unique needs and preferences by drawing from a range of modalities including psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and existential approaches.
I am a licensed mental health clinician with over 4 years of experience, I specialize in working with teens and adults. I am a bilingual therapist who had the privilege to work with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Currently, I offer virtual therapy and support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, identity crisis, OCD, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space, I strive to meet my clients where they are in the present moment, allowing us to work collaboratively towards their goals.
![Photo of Melissa S Lowry, LMHC, MS, BS, AA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dbcd2ab-2d85-4248-a05c-b523d769652b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa S Lowry
Counselor, LMHC, MS, BS, AA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030 (Online Only)
HOPE - Through the healing sessions of counseling, I hope to work with you on your journey in eclectic mixed theories such as person-centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy (C.
Hi! My name is Melissa Lowry. I am so honored and humbled that you have chosen to work with me. You have taken the first step and you are amazing! But, first, know that confidentiality, collaboration, and safety are essential for working with my clients. You are a priority, not a number. When we are in session, we work together; you are in charge of your care and treatment.
HOPE - Through the healing sessions of counseling, I hope to work with you on your journey in eclectic mixed theories such as person-centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy (C.
Hi! My name is Melissa Lowry. I am so honored and humbled that you have chosen to work with me. You have taken the first step and you are amazing! But, first, know that confidentiality, collaboration, and safety are essential for working with my clients. You are a priority, not a number. When we are in session, we work together; you are in charge of your care and treatment.
![Photo of Latrelle Huff, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7c0ed24-8e39-4c9b-b868-75f6e320dbbd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latrelle Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030 (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, also known as CBT, which is talk therapy and helps identify and challenge how you think and behave.
Seeking Therapy is a courageous act of self-love; however, it can feel scary at first, but I want you to know that you made the right decision. A safe therapeutic environment would promote growth, healing, and stability. Therapy provides a haven for you to discuss things that you are currently struggling with or have experienced in the past and have not been able to heal from the situation completely. I have experience assisting individuals and couples in finding effective coping strategies to help manage life and relationship challenges.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, also known as CBT, which is talk therapy and helps identify and challenge how you think and behave.
Seeking Therapy is a courageous act of self-love; however, it can feel scary at first, but I want you to know that you made the right decision. A safe therapeutic environment would promote growth, healing, and stability. Therapy provides a haven for you to discuss things that you are currently struggling with or have experienced in the past and have not been able to heal from the situation completely. I have experience assisting individuals and couples in finding effective coping strategies to help manage life and relationship challenges.
![Photo of Lorenza I Scott, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fc7d394-7b82-4fb6-9ab0-10b458243f14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lorenza I Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
Waitlist for new clients
I started in special education, moved to community mental health, and now have worked with a disruptive behavior clinic for two years.
My ideal client would be one who is looking for someone to help them discover themselves and their potential and feel like something is holding them back. Those who have been told their emotions are “too big” or they're "too sensitive". I specialize in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community with sex-positive guidance and gender-affirming care. I support caregivers with children with big behaviors, understanding LGBTQIA+ children, and special education services. I also specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and childhood trauma.
I started in special education, moved to community mental health, and now have worked with a disruptive behavior clinic for two years.
My ideal client would be one who is looking for someone to help them discover themselves and their potential and feel like something is holding them back. Those who have been told their emotions are “too big” or they're "too sensitive". I specialize in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community with sex-positive guidance and gender-affirming care. I support caregivers with children with big behaviors, understanding LGBTQIA+ children, and special education services. I also specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and childhood trauma.
![Photo of Quiana S Roberts, LMHC, NCC, MHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0542230a-160a-4d6b-8ee1-eb733a30c7cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Quiana S Roberts
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030 (Online Only)
Therapies used include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), inner child healing, mindfulness training, solution focused therapy skills, and motivational interviewing techniques.
Do you strive to be the best, the best partner, the best parent, the best friend, the best at work, but you always feel like you fall short. Will life always be like this? Chaotic. Exhausting. Endless to-do lists. Despite your best efforts, there never seems to be enough time in the day. After caring for so many others in your life, you struggle to care for yourself. You're constantly running on empty. In the past, you've tried to make changes on your own, but nothing seems to work. You're stuck and not sure what to do next. You do not have to do this alone. I would love to help you on your journey to a healthier you!
Therapies used include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), inner child healing, mindfulness training, solution focused therapy skills, and motivational interviewing techniques.
Do you strive to be the best, the best partner, the best parent, the best friend, the best at work, but you always feel like you fall short. Will life always be like this? Chaotic. Exhausting. Endless to-do lists. Despite your best efforts, there never seems to be enough time in the day. After caring for so many others in your life, you struggle to care for yourself. You're constantly running on empty. In the past, you've tried to make changes on your own, but nothing seems to work. You're stuck and not sure what to do next. You do not have to do this alone. I would love to help you on your journey to a healthier you!
![Photo of Julie Barta, PsyD, LEP, NCSP, LMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13112104-ef37-4252-8bfb-1f5d3c30b6b2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Barta
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PsyD, LEP, NCSP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
If you have behavioral concerns and need an evaluation as soon as possible, contact Dr.
Dr. Barta offers evaluation and therapy services for children and adults who are neurodiverse and/or have a trauma history. Her expertise assessing with a neuropsychological lens allows gives a quick "map" to better understand yourself or your child. Her skillsets are perfect for tired parents, parents seeking an initial diagnosis/second opinion, children/adolescents in need of support, or for adults seeking relief or clarity of their own functioning. Her work was acknowledged in 2016 for School Psychologist of the Year.
If you have behavioral concerns and need an evaluation as soon as possible, contact Dr.
Dr. Barta offers evaluation and therapy services for children and adults who are neurodiverse and/or have a trauma history. Her expertise assessing with a neuropsychological lens allows gives a quick "map" to better understand yourself or your child. Her skillsets are perfect for tired parents, parents seeking an initial diagnosis/second opinion, children/adolescents in need of support, or for adults seeking relief or clarity of their own functioning. Her work was acknowledged in 2016 for School Psychologist of the Year.
![Photo of Kelsey Bingham, LMHC, BCN, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ead2f452-ace7-4f4c-8442-a014b3333e46/1/320x400.png)
A big part of my work is helping parents develop more positive parenting skills, so they intentionally reward desirable behavior and discourage negative behavior—and help the child meet their needs.
Accepting new clients! Are you seeing your child struggle to keep up in school or socially? Feeling discouraged or hopeless? Being a child is tough at any age. And in recent years, the stresses and challenges have only increased, making it even harder for children to succeed. I bring a unique understanding of how brain function impacts behavior coupled with counseling skills to help children, pre-teens, and adults change their lives for the better. In addition to counseling, I am board certified in neurofeedback. I have worked hundreds of hours with clients to train their brains to shift into a more functional state.
A big part of my work is helping parents develop more positive parenting skills, so they intentionally reward desirable behavior and discourage negative behavior—and help the child meet their needs.
Accepting new clients! Are you seeing your child struggle to keep up in school or socially? Feeling discouraged or hopeless? Being a child is tough at any age. And in recent years, the stresses and challenges have only increased, making it even harder for children to succeed. I bring a unique understanding of how brain function impacts behavior coupled with counseling skills to help children, pre-teens, and adults change their lives for the better. In addition to counseling, I am board certified in neurofeedback. I have worked hundreds of hours with clients to train their brains to shift into a more functional state.
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![Photo of Ian Callahan, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29a10b1a-7038-4a65-8fd2-01e2ee9841b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Washington State with over 25 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Change is difficult, change is scary, change is not undertaken lightly, but change is necessary, and it can be achieved. Therapy and counseling are an individualized process, and it is my responsibility to create an individualized approach that values the uniqueness of who you are. Working together we will create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for you to talk about that change and what that looks like for you.
It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Washington State with over 25 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Change is difficult, change is scary, change is not undertaken lightly, but change is necessary, and it can be achieved. Therapy and counseling are an individualized process, and it is my responsibility to create an individualized approach that values the uniqueness of who you are. Working together we will create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for you to talk about that change and what that looks like for you.
![Photo of Anna Marie Torres, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a886663-0a24-4153-817b-423d05329423/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in evidence based therapy that is strength based, cognitive behavioral and solutions focused to empower your individual growth.
Negative self talk has become part of your routine. You feel overwhelmed and when life is unexpected or conflict arises, your mind spirals. You are flooded with emotion, experiencing anger and anxiety and you are ready to stop holding things in and open up in a safe space to be heard. You are struggling to start this journey, yet you are wanting to take that first step. I have created a space for you.
I believe in evidence based therapy that is strength based, cognitive behavioral and solutions focused to empower your individual growth.
Negative self talk has become part of your routine. You feel overwhelmed and when life is unexpected or conflict arises, your mind spirals. You are flooded with emotion, experiencing anger and anxiety and you are ready to stop holding things in and open up in a safe space to be heard. You are struggling to start this journey, yet you are wanting to take that first step. I have created a space for you.
![Photo of Holly Sossi, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf93e60-3406-4b7c-a69e-2d6ae984ead7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Sossi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030 (Online Only)
My passion for helping my clients involves providing the space to feel heard, validated, and empowered to commit to positive behavioral health changes for themselves, interpersonally and with the world around them. My theoretical lens is grounded through my studies and practice in humanistic theory, attachment-based theory, child development, and family systems theory. I strive to help individuals and when working with families to develop healthier communication, interpersonal, behavioral, relational and coping skills to strengthen both their interpersonal relationships and positive behaviors, for overall mental well-being.
My passion for helping my clients involves providing the space to feel heard, validated, and empowered to commit to positive behavioral health changes for themselves, interpersonally and with the world around them. My theoretical lens is grounded through my studies and practice in humanistic theory, attachment-based theory, child development, and family systems theory. I strive to help individuals and when working with families to develop healthier communication, interpersonal, behavioral, relational and coping skills to strengthen both their interpersonal relationships and positive behaviors, for overall mental well-being.
![Photo of Tony Reyna, MA, CCHt, MHyp](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afdddaa3-69d3-4950-83d2-e1c5fe982559/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
![Photo of Serge Hovaguimian, MS, LMFT, CSAT, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff2a9dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Serge Hovaguimian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT, MHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98042
My approach to therapy is grounded on trust, respect and the honoring of your experiences. I work with individuals, couples and families from a systems based orientation. That means you and your concerns are all in context of your family system. In treatment, we look at how your family of origin impacts how and where you may be stuck. Whether it is anxiety, depression, anger or an addiction, we can discover the source of the problem and help you reach your potential.
My approach to therapy is grounded on trust, respect and the honoring of your experiences. I work with individuals, couples and families from a systems based orientation. That means you and your concerns are all in context of your family system. In treatment, we look at how your family of origin impacts how and where you may be stuck. Whether it is anxiety, depression, anger or an addiction, we can discover the source of the problem and help you reach your potential.
![Photo of Elizabeth Areta, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdb7b7ca-ac33-4ff3-92d3-678593595341/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with parents and young adults. I love to work collaboratively with my clients to build a life they enjoy and is in line with their values. I mainly provide services to ages ranging from 20-45, but please feel free to reach out if you are outside of this age range so we can discuss possibilities. Therapy with me, would look like learning skills for controlling emotions, making difficult choices in life, and coping with a variety of challenges.
Currently accepting new clients! I have a passion for working with parents and young adults. I love to work collaboratively with my clients to build a life they enjoy and is in line with their values. I mainly provide services to ages ranging from 20-45, but please feel free to reach out if you are outside of this age range so we can discuss possibilities. Therapy with me, would look like learning skills for controlling emotions, making difficult choices in life, and coping with a variety of challenges.
![Photo of Whitney Erickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3881cdf-12c3-4b05-b881-ad71cb93e0d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032
Waitlist for new clients
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
![Photo of Rachel Wilson, PsyD, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7496ae7-ed67-4297-9583-6795551b13ac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Each individual faces challenges as they learn to navigate life and find their place in the world. At times, these obstacles may feel like Mt. Everest and impossible to overcome. Issues may arise such as trouble with concentrating, lack of motivation, perfectionism, social issues, academic struggles, anxiety, depression, and sometimes addiction. All of which may be overwhelming to a person. People need a "neutral party," someone they can talk to, in confidence, to discuss and work through issues. Having a therapists offers a safe place to share, feel accepted, and understood.
Each individual faces challenges as they learn to navigate life and find their place in the world. At times, these obstacles may feel like Mt. Everest and impossible to overcome. Issues may arise such as trouble with concentrating, lack of motivation, perfectionism, social issues, academic struggles, anxiety, depression, and sometimes addiction. All of which may be overwhelming to a person. People need a "neutral party," someone they can talk to, in confidence, to discuss and work through issues. Having a therapists offers a safe place to share, feel accepted, and understood.
![Photo of Manny Kaur, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504fce93-2388-4ea3-874c-3e9b71b2490c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our mind-body connection is extremely powerful. When we are stressed, we might experience bodily discomfort and/or mental health concerns that cause difficulty functioning in everyday life. This is completely normal! I encourage you to close your eyes and listen for two to three minutes. Do you hear that little voice in your head? It takes awareness and practice to navigate that little voice, that speaks to us 24/7, for it to be an asset in our healing, growth, and self-regulation.
Our mind-body connection is extremely powerful. When we are stressed, we might experience bodily discomfort and/or mental health concerns that cause difficulty functioning in everyday life. This is completely normal! I encourage you to close your eyes and listen for two to three minutes. Do you hear that little voice in your head? It takes awareness and practice to navigate that little voice, that speaks to us 24/7, for it to be an asset in our healing, growth, and self-regulation.
See more therapy options for Kent
Nearby Behavioral Issues Therapists Searches for Kent
- Auburn
- Black Diamond
- Burien
- Covington
- Des Moines
- Enumclaw
- Federal Way
- Maple Valley
- Normandy Park
- Renton
- Seatac
- Tukwila
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.