Behavioral Issues Therapists in Kingston, WA

Photo of Giselle Macfarlane, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Giselle Macfarlane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kingston, WA 98346
In my therapeutic playroom, I help children with trauma, academic underachievement, social-emotional, and behavioral problems.
As an LMFT serving Bainbridge Island, I utilize a humanistic, evidence-based, emotionally focused perspective with children, youth, and adults with concerns including anxiety, depression, attachment, trauma, self-harm, identity, and gender questioning issues. I find Lifespan Integration and Somatic Transformation helpful in resolving trauma. I treat couples and families working through conflict, life transitions, divorce, grief, and loss. Additionally, I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and a Washington State Supervisor offering supervision to associates.
In my therapeutic playroom, I help children with trauma, academic underachievement, social-emotional, and behavioral problems.
As an LMFT serving Bainbridge Island, I utilize a humanistic, evidence-based, emotionally focused perspective with children, youth, and adults with concerns including anxiety, depression, attachment, trauma, self-harm, identity, and gender questioning issues. I find Lifespan Integration and Somatic Transformation helpful in resolving trauma. I treat couples and families working through conflict, life transitions, divorce, grief, and loss. Additionally, I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and a Washington State Supervisor offering supervision to associates.
(206) 557-6559 View (206) 557-6559
Photo of Lisa Defaria, MSW, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Defaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
Waitlist for new clients
I have advanced-training and expertise across multiple therapeutic treatment modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches.
Providing quality, compassionate and confidential psychotherapeutic services for over 20 years. With a specialty in young children with developmental, emotional & behavior challenges, I also have extensive experience working with parents, individuals & families. You may be a parent concerned about your child, a family/couple with relationship challenges, or an individual in transition. We partner together in a process of exploration, discovery & solutions that support personal growth. I strive to provide the highest standards of professional practice - personable, respectful, non-judgmental & strength-based.
I have advanced-training and expertise across multiple therapeutic treatment modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches.
Providing quality, compassionate and confidential psychotherapeutic services for over 20 years. With a specialty in young children with developmental, emotional & behavior challenges, I also have extensive experience working with parents, individuals & families. You may be a parent concerned about your child, a family/couple with relationship challenges, or an individual in transition. We partner together in a process of exploration, discovery & solutions that support personal growth. I strive to provide the highest standards of professional practice - personable, respectful, non-judgmental & strength-based.
(206) 203-6722 View (206) 203-6722
Photo of Mark Adams - N. W. Family Psychology, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mark Adams - N. W. Family Psychology
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
From that foundation, Mark incorporates mindfulness-based interventions, self-compassion work, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – to fit the needs of each client.
Mark Adams, MA, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor practicing in Poulsbo, Washington. He has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various community mental health settings since 1994. Mark has extensive experience working with issues of domestic disputes and high conflict. He has worked with adults to repair the damage and undo legacies of harmful behavior. Within the context of that work, Mark developed and co-facilitated a unique group for men dealing with issues of both abusive behavior and substance abuse.
From that foundation, Mark incorporates mindfulness-based interventions, self-compassion work, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – to fit the needs of each client.
Mark Adams, MA, LMHC, is a licensed mental health counselor practicing in Poulsbo, Washington. He has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various community mental health settings since 1994. Mark has extensive experience working with issues of domestic disputes and high conflict. He has worked with adults to repair the damage and undo legacies of harmful behavior. Within the context of that work, Mark developed and co-facilitated a unique group for men dealing with issues of both abusive behavior and substance abuse.
(206) 531-7203 View (206) 531-7203
Photo of Benjamin M Young - B. Young Counseling, PLLC, MA,  MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP, Counselor
B. Young Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
I practice from an integrative lens; Reality Therapy/Choice Theory (similar to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT), Gestalt Therapy (awareness building), and Trauma-Informed Care models.
I have worked with youth and families since 2007 - clinically since 2012. A large aspect of my present work is within the domains of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma-stressors, men's issues, as well as parenting issues. You can read more about my approach at byoungcounseling.net - feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
I practice from an integrative lens; Reality Therapy/Choice Theory (similar to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT), Gestalt Therapy (awareness building), and Trauma-Informed Care models.
I have worked with youth and families since 2007 - clinically since 2012. A large aspect of my present work is within the domains of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma-stressors, men's issues, as well as parenting issues. You can read more about my approach at byoungcounseling.net - feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
(425) 510-7905 View (425) 510-7905
Photo of David McNamara, PhD, Psychologist
David McNamara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
I see psychotherapy as a way to more fully empower and express one’s self in the world, whether as a child, teen, or adult, and, in the process, heal the various “symptoms” that stand in the way. It’s my belief and experience that that sense of self is, by nature, strong, clear, and caring, and yet can become problematic, in feelings and behavior, through the difficult experiences that life can bring. I see my role as helping to bring forth the experience of this successful and caring self, and, specifically to assist the client to heal the problematic traumas, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, that interfere with this.
I see psychotherapy as a way to more fully empower and express one’s self in the world, whether as a child, teen, or adult, and, in the process, heal the various “symptoms” that stand in the way. It’s my belief and experience that that sense of self is, by nature, strong, clear, and caring, and yet can become problematic, in feelings and behavior, through the difficult experiences that life can bring. I see my role as helping to bring forth the experience of this successful and caring self, and, specifically to assist the client to heal the problematic traumas, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, that interfere with this.
(206) 823-0893 View (206) 823-0893
Photo of Jamie Dipino, LMHC, MS, CDP, Counselor
Jamie Dipino
Counselor, LMHC, MS, CDP
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
I am not currently accepting new clients. My name is Jamie DiPino, I am the owner/founder of Holistic Healing Therapy. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, allowing me to implement my eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of my clients. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, domestic violence & more.
I am not currently accepting new clients. My name is Jamie DiPino, I am the owner/founder of Holistic Healing Therapy. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, allowing me to implement my eclectic counseling approach to meet the needs of my clients. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, domestic violence & more.
(360) 930-6653 View (360) 930-6653
Photo of Daniel Edens, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Edens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346  (Online Only)
Everyone can benefit from therapy, they might just not know it yet. I believe humans are meant to seek help and support from each other. I believe there are people that can help change your life for the better. Maybe you are on a journey of self-discovery. Maybe you need extra support through a difficult time. Perhaps you need help re-investing in yourself. Or, maybe you don’t know what you need, but you thought this might be a good place to start. Whatever your reasons, you have taken a very brave first step in your journey toward more happiness and confidence in your continuing growth and future goals.
Everyone can benefit from therapy, they might just not know it yet. I believe humans are meant to seek help and support from each other. I believe there are people that can help change your life for the better. Maybe you are on a journey of self-discovery. Maybe you need extra support through a difficult time. Perhaps you need help re-investing in yourself. Or, maybe you don’t know what you need, but you thought this might be a good place to start. Whatever your reasons, you have taken a very brave first step in your journey toward more happiness and confidence in your continuing growth and future goals.
(206) 210-2313 View (206) 210-2313
Photo of Shannon Rickert, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Shannon Rickert
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, WA 98346  (Online Only)
I focus my therapy work with adults and couples. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
I focus my therapy work with adults and couples. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
(626) 557-4248 View (626) 557-4248
Photo of Michelle Shellenberger, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Shellenberger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
I work with adults and have 22 years of experience working with a wide range of issues. We’ll talk about what’s important for you and what goals you have for therapy, and this will guide our work together as we engage in a healing conversation. I am interested in learning more about how individuals become able to access parts of themselves that can be open to growth and change.
I work with adults and have 22 years of experience working with a wide range of issues. We’ll talk about what’s important for you and what goals you have for therapy, and this will guide our work together as we engage in a healing conversation. I am interested in learning more about how individuals become able to access parts of themselves that can be open to growth and change.
(253) 343-1291 View (253) 343-1291
Photo of Lisa Bernardin (She Her), MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Bernardin (She Her)
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, WA 98346
Waitlist for new clients
I am a general practice therapist treating children, youth and adult individuals in Washington state - primarily by Telehealth. As your therapist, I bring intentional listening skills, professional insight, and a safe, no-judgement space in which we can partner together to reach solutions that work for you. I believe that every person deserves "unconditional positive regard" and in our relationship you will know that I am on your side and working hard with you to find peace, hope, and a way forward. I do not treat couples.
I am a general practice therapist treating children, youth and adult individuals in Washington state - primarily by Telehealth. As your therapist, I bring intentional listening skills, professional insight, and a safe, no-judgement space in which we can partner together to reach solutions that work for you. I believe that every person deserves "unconditional positive regard" and in our relationship you will know that I am on your side and working hard with you to find peace, hope, and a way forward. I do not treat couples.
(206) 866-2845 View (206) 866-2845
Photo of David Daroff, LMHC, MDiv, MA, Counselor
David Daroff
Counselor, LMHC, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Kingston, WA 98346
As a Christian therapist with ten years of experience as a professional counselor and twenty years of experience in full-time pastoral ministry, I really do care about my clients. I love people and I find great satisfaction when my clients find success through personal and relational healing. I want you to know that you are safe to share whatever is on your heart and mind without fear of judgment. With a gentle, patient spirit, I will listen with care and compassion to really understand your story and help you process through the difficult and traumatic events in your life.
As a Christian therapist with ten years of experience as a professional counselor and twenty years of experience in full-time pastoral ministry, I really do care about my clients. I love people and I find great satisfaction when my clients find success through personal and relational healing. I want you to know that you are safe to share whatever is on your heart and mind without fear of judgment. With a gentle, patient spirit, I will listen with care and compassion to really understand your story and help you process through the difficult and traumatic events in your life.
(360) 583-5344 View (360) 583-5344

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Geoffrey M. Simkins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoffrey M. Simkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I primarily use mindfulness & behavioral therapy to help people who are suffering or those who are trying to improve their situation.
My focus is on helping people improve themselves and help them enjoy their lives. I think sometimes to get better outcomes, if we might want to change our behaviors/thoughts/feelings. Typically I use DBT, CBT and behavioral techniques that might help us make some changes. An engaged client that puts in some effort during session and/or towards their treatment plan that usually does best. Only sees adults, over +18.
I primarily use mindfulness & behavioral therapy to help people who are suffering or those who are trying to improve their situation.
My focus is on helping people improve themselves and help them enjoy their lives. I think sometimes to get better outcomes, if we might want to change our behaviors/thoughts/feelings. Typically I use DBT, CBT and behavioral techniques that might help us make some changes. An engaged client that puts in some effort during session and/or towards their treatment plan that usually does best. Only sees adults, over +18.
(425) 903-8857 View (425) 903-8857
Photo of Sharon Aboosaidi, PhD, Counselor
Sharon Aboosaidi
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133
The main therapies I focus on are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy and Spiritual Cognitive Therapy.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
The main therapies I focus on are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy and Spiritual Cognitive Therapy.
Counseling can offer an understanding of the behaviors, beliefs and emotions that fuel our daily interactions with families and other people. Therapy is a process. My job is to facilitate you through possible change options. It is my goal to work with you closely during therapy to aid in clarifying your goals for treatment, explore patterns and choices of communication, relationships, life style and foster development of beneficial coping strategies with commitment on both parts during therapy. The main goal is to explore patterns of behavior, thoughts, and actions to foster positive change and personal growth.
(206) 745-3402 View (206) 745-3402
Photo of Jennifer Wootsick, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Wootsick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
You don't have to wait until you are struggling to reach out! You might be expecting a new baby, have questions about child development, want to feel more connected to your child, have behavioral concerns, or want to parent differently than you were parented.
Many families come to therapy feeling like they have tried everything & are at a loss with how to help their child regulate their emotions & behaviors. I collaborate with caregivers to understand & manage their infant/toddler/young child's behaviors through developmental & relational frameworks which create positive change in family dynamics. I work with children (0-8 yrs) & their caregivers to promote secure attachment, bonding, and mutual enjoyment. I also work with individual adults, most of whom are struggling with perinatal mental health, stress, anxiety, emotion regulation, parenting, ADHD, & interpersonal trauma.
You don't have to wait until you are struggling to reach out! You might be expecting a new baby, have questions about child development, want to feel more connected to your child, have behavioral concerns, or want to parent differently than you were parented.
Many families come to therapy feeling like they have tried everything & are at a loss with how to help their child regulate their emotions & behaviors. I collaborate with caregivers to understand & manage their infant/toddler/young child's behaviors through developmental & relational frameworks which create positive change in family dynamics. I work with children (0-8 yrs) & their caregivers to promote secure attachment, bonding, and mutual enjoyment. I also work with individual adults, most of whom are struggling with perinatal mental health, stress, anxiety, emotion regulation, parenting, ADHD, & interpersonal trauma.
(425) 842-3370 View (425) 842-3370
Photo of Aly Sobo, MA, IMH
Aly Sobo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, IMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I specialize in solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as DBT.
Hello, and welcome to Healing Path Counseling. Helping people live a better life is my passion. I believe we can work together to overcome the many challenges life brings your way. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a loss in life or setting boundaries? Maybe you feel that aspects of your life are in need of a change or could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed. Seeking help is a great place to begin. I have worked with a variety of clients who are dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have years of experience with kids, adolescents, adults, and couples.
I specialize in solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as DBT.
Hello, and welcome to Healing Path Counseling. Helping people live a better life is my passion. I believe we can work together to overcome the many challenges life brings your way. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a loss in life or setting boundaries? Maybe you feel that aspects of your life are in need of a change or could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed. Seeking help is a great place to begin. I have worked with a variety of clients who are dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have years of experience with kids, adolescents, adults, and couples.
(813) 710-4287 View (813) 710-4287
Photo of Catherine E Stafford, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine E Stafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Traditional parenting, "positive parenting" and behavior plans typically make problem behaviors worse for intense children.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I support families experiencing challenging emotions and behaviors. With over 30 years across clinical settings, I have extensive experience with neurodivergent and anxious children. My goal is to empower children and parents, by supporting the creation of lasting, positive change, through a combination of 1:1 counseling and parent coaching. My therapeutic model is solution focused, Cognitive- Behavioral and short term, where possible, with parent coaching based in a foundation of the Nurtured Heart Approach philosophy and Collaborative Problem Solving.
Traditional parenting, "positive parenting" and behavior plans typically make problem behaviors worse for intense children.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I support families experiencing challenging emotions and behaviors. With over 30 years across clinical settings, I have extensive experience with neurodivergent and anxious children. My goal is to empower children and parents, by supporting the creation of lasting, positive change, through a combination of 1:1 counseling and parent coaching. My therapeutic model is solution focused, Cognitive- Behavioral and short term, where possible, with parent coaching based in a foundation of the Nurtured Heart Approach philosophy and Collaborative Problem Solving.
(425) 409-6063 View (425) 409-6063
Photo of Katie Hellerud, LMHC, Counselor
Katie Hellerud
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
Your curiosity and investment in your mental/ behavioral wellbeing is admirable.
Have you ever been told or wondered if you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional?" As if this is a shameful thing? I'll take a wild guess and say that hearing this probably doesn't help in feeling "less" emotional. This can be such a bind – maybe intense emotions/behaviors make things harder. However, a sense of acceptance, whether it comes from within or from loved ones, can profoundly support in feeling understood, safe, and resilient. And these more subtle feelings can absolutely assist in the pursuit of making necessary changes in emotional expression & related behaviors, impact on relationships, and presence day-to-day.
Your curiosity and investment in your mental/ behavioral wellbeing is admirable.
Have you ever been told or wondered if you're "too sensitive" or "too emotional?" As if this is a shameful thing? I'll take a wild guess and say that hearing this probably doesn't help in feeling "less" emotional. This can be such a bind – maybe intense emotions/behaviors make things harder. However, a sense of acceptance, whether it comes from within or from loved ones, can profoundly support in feeling understood, safe, and resilient. And these more subtle feelings can absolutely assist in the pursuit of making necessary changes in emotional expression & related behaviors, impact on relationships, and presence day-to-day.
(206) 203-3745 View (206) 203-3745
Photo of Madeline Frank, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Madeline Frank
PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98177
I use positive behavior support strategies to support children, parents, and families with and without autism spectrum disorder.
My experience as a behavior analyst spans educational, clinical, and home/community settings. I worked for several years as a special education classroom teacher and I feel strongly that parent involvement/training is critical for a child's success. I aim to provide children and families with tools to rapidly improve language comprehension and vocalization, replace problem behaviors, teach self-help skills, and enhance age-appropriate social skills. I primarily work with children between 2-10 years old, but have experience working with clients up to 21 years old.
I use positive behavior support strategies to support children, parents, and families with and without autism spectrum disorder.
My experience as a behavior analyst spans educational, clinical, and home/community settings. I worked for several years as a special education classroom teacher and I feel strongly that parent involvement/training is critical for a child's success. I aim to provide children and families with tools to rapidly improve language comprehension and vocalization, replace problem behaviors, teach self-help skills, and enhance age-appropriate social skills. I primarily work with children between 2-10 years old, but have experience working with clients up to 21 years old.
(206) 312-6845 View (206) 312-6845
Photo of Mary Lou Macarius, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Lou Macarius
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98177  (Online Only)
She utilizes treatment approaches including solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural family therapy, and others to best support you.
Mary Lou Macarius is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, grief, parenting issues, school issues, stress, women's issues, and child therapy. She has more than 20 years of experience, working at institutions such as the Pacific Lutheran University Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, the Good Samaritan Behavioral Health Care Center, as well as in public schools serving students K-12th grade. She also has experience serving individuals from six years old to 65 years old from her time in another group private practice.
She utilizes treatment approaches including solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural family therapy, and others to best support you.
Mary Lou Macarius is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, grief, parenting issues, school issues, stress, women's issues, and child therapy. She has more than 20 years of experience, working at institutions such as the Pacific Lutheran University Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, the Good Samaritan Behavioral Health Care Center, as well as in public schools serving students K-12th grade. She also has experience serving individuals from six years old to 65 years old from her time in another group private practice.
(206) 889-6042 View (206) 889-6042
Photo of Lily E Ramirez, MEd, LMHCA, Counselor
Lily E Ramirez
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral.
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA) working in Western Washington. I work with children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. Struggling in any one of these areas can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, helpless, and frustrated. I am an empathetic therapist who focuses on the client's needs. I will help guide you through these difficult emotions while helping to identify the root cause. I do not want to only help you alleviate the symptoms you experience but help you to deal with the underlying issue(s) at hand.
My therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral.
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA) working in Western Washington. I work with children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. Struggling in any one of these areas can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, helpless, and frustrated. I am an empathetic therapist who focuses on the client's needs. I will help guide you through these difficult emotions while helping to identify the root cause. I do not want to only help you alleviate the symptoms you experience but help you to deal with the underlying issue(s) at hand.
(253) 243-2389 View (253) 243-2389

See more therapy options for Kingston

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.