Behavioral Issues Therapists in Menasha, WI

Photo of Lori Hilt, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Hilt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
For children with behavior problems, I work with both the child and parent to manage behavior at home and school.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress? Does your child's behavior feel unmanageable? Do you or your child have feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress that make it hard to enjoy life or get along with other people? I am a licensed clinical psychologist and would like to help. I enjoy working with children from preschool through adolescence and their parents to help them manage emotional difficulties. I also work with adults who struggle with emotional difficulties that affect their daily lives.
For children with behavior problems, I work with both the child and parent to manage behavior at home and school.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress? Does your child's behavior feel unmanageable? Do you or your child have feelings of depression, anxiety, or stress that make it hard to enjoy life or get along with other people? I am a licensed clinical psychologist and would like to help. I enjoy working with children from preschool through adolescence and their parents to help them manage emotional difficulties. I also work with adults who struggle with emotional difficulties that affect their daily lives.
(920) 482-6302 View (920) 482-6302
Photo of Debra Lynne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
(940) 641-8926 View (940) 641-8926
Photo of Teresa Gross, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Our foundation, which includes our childhood and the dynamics of our family, directly impacts our thoughts about ourselves and others. It affects our behaviors and relationships. Most of my clients have some sort of childhood trauma that is affecting their ability to move in a peaceful, productive direction. Understanding how the brain is affected, and how to incorporate positive thoughts and behaviors, can change a person's life. It takes courage to share our inner thoughts and experiences. I appreciate the strength in my clients and build on these, showing them they have what it takes to make positive changes.
Our foundation, which includes our childhood and the dynamics of our family, directly impacts our thoughts about ourselves and others. It affects our behaviors and relationships. Most of my clients have some sort of childhood trauma that is affecting their ability to move in a peaceful, productive direction. Understanding how the brain is affected, and how to incorporate positive thoughts and behaviors, can change a person's life. It takes courage to share our inner thoughts and experiences. I appreciate the strength in my clients and build on these, showing them they have what it takes to make positive changes.
(920) 944-6559 View (920) 944-6559
Photo of Derreka Walton, MSE, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Derreka Walton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
STOP SCROLLING……Are you bleary-eyed from reading so many counselor profiles? Are the words just combining to read blah, blah, blah? So you’re looking for a therapist, good news I’m looking to help people! My name is Derreka Walton, and I own and operate The Couch Counseling Center. Am I some super magical being with special unicorn counseling abilities? NO! I’m a pretty regular person with some skills! I’m married, have kids, a few pets, a job, and a life, pretty normal, right?
STOP SCROLLING……Are you bleary-eyed from reading so many counselor profiles? Are the words just combining to read blah, blah, blah? So you’re looking for a therapist, good news I’m looking to help people! My name is Derreka Walton, and I own and operate The Couch Counseling Center. Am I some super magical being with special unicorn counseling abilities? NO! I’m a pretty regular person with some skills! I’m married, have kids, a few pets, a job, and a life, pretty normal, right?
(920) 259-2718 View (920) 259-2718
Photo of Tamara M Plath, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara M Plath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Menasha, WI 54952
I believe strongly in the importance of counseling grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe counseling is not just about feeling better but being better at dealing with the feelings we experience as we face life’s challenges. With the support of someone to help us process or teach us new skills difficult times can become times of growth. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds but particularly enjoy working with people going through life changes and middle school and high school youth.
I believe strongly in the importance of counseling grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe counseling is not just about feeling better but being better at dealing with the feelings we experience as we face life’s challenges. With the support of someone to help us process or teach us new skills difficult times can become times of growth. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds but particularly enjoy working with people going through life changes and middle school and high school youth.
(920) 315-7667 View (920) 315-7667
Photo of Tina Wankey - Roots of Healing, LLC, MSW, LCSW, MSHN, L Hyp, CWFC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roots of Healing, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSHN, L Hyp, CWFC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can feel like we are stuck in the mud. We are struggling to get out, to break free, but it feels like we can't get out. We may feel frustrated, angry, anxious, helpless, or distraught. When this happens, it can be difficult to know how to deal with what happened or what type of help we need.
Sometimes life can feel like we are stuck in the mud. We are struggling to get out, to break free, but it feels like we can't get out. We may feel frustrated, angry, anxious, helpless, or distraught. When this happens, it can be difficult to know how to deal with what happened or what type of help we need.
(920) 395-1081 View (920) 395-1081
Photo of Lisbet Aguilar- Bilingual Therapist, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisbet Aguilar- Bilingual Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Menasha, WI 54952
Not accepting new clients
YOU are meant to flourish! Although we are all created unique and unrepeatable, we all aspire to be happy and live well. Worry, anxiety, depression, life changes, being unhappy and unfulfilled can be an obstacle to our flourishing. Like a diamond, no scratch, chip, or fracture can damage our innate beauty. The human person is capable of achieving and bringing inner joy and happiness through healing and the fulfillment of their personal goals.
YOU are meant to flourish! Although we are all created unique and unrepeatable, we all aspire to be happy and live well. Worry, anxiety, depression, life changes, being unhappy and unfulfilled can be an obstacle to our flourishing. Like a diamond, no scratch, chip, or fracture can damage our innate beauty. The human person is capable of achieving and bringing inner joy and happiness through healing and the fulfillment of their personal goals.
(920) 259-2604 View (920) 259-2604

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jillian Rotzenberg, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Rotzenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
Insight exploration, cognitive/behavioral techniques, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and behavior modification are frequently utilized.
Therapy can appear as an intimidating or daunting process. Jillian understands this and does her best to make each session a learning experience that is free from judgement and uses a bit of humor. She treats individuals, couples, and groups to relieve stress from an array of struggles: Anxiety, addiction, depression, life transitions, marital relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and more. Self-acceptance and ability to cope through life's struggles are realistic through the client-counselor relationship.
Insight exploration, cognitive/behavioral techniques, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and behavior modification are frequently utilized.
Therapy can appear as an intimidating or daunting process. Jillian understands this and does her best to make each session a learning experience that is free from judgement and uses a bit of humor. She treats individuals, couples, and groups to relieve stress from an array of struggles: Anxiety, addiction, depression, life transitions, marital relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and more. Self-acceptance and ability to cope through life's struggles are realistic through the client-counselor relationship.
(833) 542-0310 x6613 View (833) 542-0310 x6613
Photo of Linda A Carmody - Spectrum Behavioral Health LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spectrum Behavioral Health LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
Finally, I am a mom who has had the experience of raising my own children with high functioning autism + behavior problems + co-occurring mental diagnosis.
My outpatient practice specifically centers on patients who have Autism and one or more additional mental health diagnoses. Studies have shown that over 70% of individuals with Autism likely have at least one co-occurring mental health disorder. At times, the combination of Autism + behavior problems + any mental health disorder makes recovery a challenge. It is my hope that providing treatment for my patients and their families which is tailored to their specific diagnoses combination will help provide the knowledge and support needed for success.
Finally, I am a mom who has had the experience of raising my own children with high functioning autism + behavior problems + co-occurring mental diagnosis.
My outpatient practice specifically centers on patients who have Autism and one or more additional mental health diagnoses. Studies have shown that over 70% of individuals with Autism likely have at least one co-occurring mental health disorder. At times, the combination of Autism + behavior problems + any mental health disorder makes recovery a challenge. It is my hope that providing treatment for my patients and their families which is tailored to their specific diagnoses combination will help provide the knowledge and support needed for success.
(920) 933-4155 View (920) 933-4155
Photo of Amanda Line, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Line
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Neenah, WI 54956  (Online Only)
In my office you will find an approachable, down to earth and compassionate therapist experienced in using cognitive behavioral therapy, Mindfulness techniques, family systems, and more.
It's time to change but you’re not sure where to start. Dealing with the mood swings, sadness, and fear have become overwhelming but it’s hard to ask for help. Maybe you or someone in your family has experienced abuse or trauma and is scared or embarrassed to talk about it. It feels like you’ve tried everything to help yourself or teen and you’re worried the situation will get worse. The emotional roller coaster needs to stop but you don’t know where the controls are anymore. By reading this, you are already starting a path to change. There is no shame is asking for help.
In my office you will find an approachable, down to earth and compassionate therapist experienced in using cognitive behavioral therapy, Mindfulness techniques, family systems, and more.
It's time to change but you’re not sure where to start. Dealing with the mood swings, sadness, and fear have become overwhelming but it’s hard to ask for help. Maybe you or someone in your family has experienced abuse or trauma and is scared or embarrassed to talk about it. It feels like you’ve tried everything to help yourself or teen and you’re worried the situation will get worse. The emotional roller coaster needs to stop but you don’t know where the controls are anymore. By reading this, you are already starting a path to change. There is no shame is asking for help.
(920) 247-2528 View (920) 247-2528
Photo of Donald Lee Schade, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Lee Schade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914  (Online Only)
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical practice, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical practice, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
(920) 824-3949 View (920) 824-3949
Photo of Julie Shea, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Neenah, WI 54956  (Online Only)
I specialize in strength-based approaches within a cognitive behavior therapy model to manage depression, anxiety, adjustment related concerns.
Welcome. This is hard right now and you want it to get better. You are ready to take the next step forward because you are here today. I can be the therapist to provide you tools so you can piece things back into place, be the person you know you are. We'll use your strength and courage as the tool for healing. Starting therapy is difficult. I know how hard it is to ask for help. You might be anxious if it will work or if it will even be worth it. It will be. I provide a safe and comfortable space for my clients to be themselves. When you are ready, I'm here.
I specialize in strength-based approaches within a cognitive behavior therapy model to manage depression, anxiety, adjustment related concerns.
Welcome. This is hard right now and you want it to get better. You are ready to take the next step forward because you are here today. I can be the therapist to provide you tools so you can piece things back into place, be the person you know you are. We'll use your strength and courage as the tool for healing. Starting therapy is difficult. I know how hard it is to ask for help. You might be anxious if it will work or if it will even be worth it. It will be. I provide a safe and comfortable space for my clients to be themselves. When you are ready, I'm here.
(920) 880-2651 View (920) 880-2651
Photo of Judy Hoffmann, MSE, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judy Hoffmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915  (Online Only)
Genuinely invested in you, your struggles, and your goals. Personalized respectful help, focused on clear progress for you. Low fee of $60 per hour. Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Conflict, Behavioral problems, Parenting, Divorce, Affairs, Choices, Self Esteem are some of the issues I often work with. I have experience with adolescents concerns, as well as with blended, mixed, step-parent and adoptive families. I work to truly listen, to clearly understand, to explore issues collaboratively. Appointments are generally available 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. You can start with a simple email to tell me what you are hoping to address.
Genuinely invested in you, your struggles, and your goals. Personalized respectful help, focused on clear progress for you. Low fee of $60 per hour. Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Conflict, Behavioral problems, Parenting, Divorce, Affairs, Choices, Self Esteem are some of the issues I often work with. I have experience with adolescents concerns, as well as with blended, mixed, step-parent and adoptive families. I work to truly listen, to clearly understand, to explore issues collaboratively. Appointments are generally available 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. You can start with a simple email to tell me what you are hoping to address.
(920) 624-2958 View (920) 624-2958
Photo of Michael Anderson, MS, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
(920) 482-6294 View (920) 482-6294
Photo of Tara Fischer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Fischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focus Therapy, Person-Centered, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am here to help support, challenge, and empower you to be the person you want to be. The therapeutic process and change can be difficult and scary. I feel honored to be able to help guide you through that process. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and non-judgmental approach allows me to meet you where you are and help get you to where you want to be. There is a lot more to a person than their diagnosis and label, and I enjoy getting to know you as the unique person you are.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focus Therapy, Person-Centered, and Motivational Interviewing.
I am here to help support, challenge, and empower you to be the person you want to be. The therapeutic process and change can be difficult and scary. I feel honored to be able to help guide you through that process. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and non-judgmental approach allows me to meet you where you are and help get you to where you want to be. There is a lot more to a person than their diagnosis and label, and I enjoy getting to know you as the unique person you are.
(920) 685-8656 View (920) 685-8656
Photo of Danielle Zarling-Abraham, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Zarling-Abraham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
I can provide treatment for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, mood disorders, behavior issues, life transitions, stress management, family conflict, relationship struggles, parenting and eating disorders.
My goal as a therapist is to provide each person compassionate psychotherapy that leads to satisfying changes, restoring balance, and living a more meaningful life. Successful therapy takes transparency, commitment, personal accountability, and mutual respect. I will work to help you identify inherent strengths, heal past and present wounds, and generate change from within yourself. I provide a nonjudgmental space in which you can take an honest look at what is happening in their life as you grow and move forward.
I can provide treatment for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, mood disorders, behavior issues, life transitions, stress management, family conflict, relationship struggles, parenting and eating disorders.
My goal as a therapist is to provide each person compassionate psychotherapy that leads to satisfying changes, restoring balance, and living a more meaningful life. Successful therapy takes transparency, commitment, personal accountability, and mutual respect. I will work to help you identify inherent strengths, heal past and present wounds, and generate change from within yourself. I provide a nonjudgmental space in which you can take an honest look at what is happening in their life as you grow and move forward.
(920) 280-6628 View (920) 280-6628
Photo of Sharon Gray, Psychologist
Sharon Gray
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
YOU CAN FEEL BETTER! Feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Have troubled relationships? Do you struggle with your child's behavior, attitude or school achievement? Want MORE than talk therapy? My work is strength-based: let's find what is working and improve the areas that are not! In an easy-going and comfortable manner, I use brain science i.e. Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology (along with a sense of humor) to provide treatment of emotional and behavioral issues in adults, children, couples and families; including psychological assessments for both children and adults.
YOU CAN FEEL BETTER! Feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Have troubled relationships? Do you struggle with your child's behavior, attitude or school achievement? Want MORE than talk therapy? My work is strength-based: let's find what is working and improve the areas that are not! In an easy-going and comfortable manner, I use brain science i.e. Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology (along with a sense of humor) to provide treatment of emotional and behavioral issues in adults, children, couples and families; including psychological assessments for both children and adults.
(920) 471-1773 View (920) 471-1773
Photo of Nikolaus Werner, PsyD, Psychologist
Nikolaus Werner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Neenah, WI 54956
I work with patients in a collaborative manner to treat a variety of mental health problems. Together, we will develop a treatment which is tailored to suit your needs. We will work together to develop a plan so that you are able to meet your goals. I work with children and adults to address problems like depression, anxiety, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, behavioral issues, attention, concentration and obsessions or compulsions among among many others. I also offer a full range of psychological assessments including personality assessment, educational testing, neuropsychological testing and intelligence testing.
I work with patients in a collaborative manner to treat a variety of mental health problems. Together, we will develop a treatment which is tailored to suit your needs. We will work together to develop a plan so that you are able to meet your goals. I work with children and adults to address problems like depression, anxiety, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, behavioral issues, attention, concentration and obsessions or compulsions among among many others. I also offer a full range of psychological assessments including personality assessment, educational testing, neuropsychological testing and intelligence testing.
(920) 944-6657 View (920) 944-6657
Photo of Tracy M Siebers, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy M Siebers
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Neenah, WI 54956
Depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioral problems, cultural adjustment, trauma, domestic violence, relationship counseling, life transitions, stress management & BPD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts or patterns? As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals, couples & families navigate life's challenges & achieve emotional well-being. My approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings and thoughts & develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, I am here to provide you with the tools and support you need to overcome obstacles and thrive.
Depression, anxiety, anger management, behavioral problems, cultural adjustment, trauma, domestic violence, relationship counseling, life transitions, stress management & BPD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts or patterns? As a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals, couples & families navigate life's challenges & achieve emotional well-being. My approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings and thoughts & develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, I am here to provide you with the tools and support you need to overcome obstacles and thrive.
(920) 843-9612 View (920) 843-9612
Photo of Abdulla A Mogherbi - Abdulla Mogherbi, MSE, LPC, MSE, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abdulla Mogherbi, MSE, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
I use therapeutic approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Management, Mindfulness, Mind-Body, Integrative and Holistic Therapies to help clients improve in their symptoms.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Ages 6+ with issues include Anxiety, Panics, Depression, ADD/ADHD, ODD, Anger, Explosive Anger, OCD, Tics, Tourettes, Autism, sleep difficulties, pain, Fibromyalgia, migraines, GI issues, IBS, Brain Gut, CVS, Hypertension. I work with clients according their individual and unique needs using the therapeutic approaches that fits those needs. I highly respect their values and beliefs. I teach and train them to learn good coping skills to manage and have control over their difficulties.
I use therapeutic approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Management, Mindfulness, Mind-Body, Integrative and Holistic Therapies to help clients improve in their symptoms.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. Ages 6+ with issues include Anxiety, Panics, Depression, ADD/ADHD, ODD, Anger, Explosive Anger, OCD, Tics, Tourettes, Autism, sleep difficulties, pain, Fibromyalgia, migraines, GI issues, IBS, Brain Gut, CVS, Hypertension. I work with clients according their individual and unique needs using the therapeutic approaches that fits those needs. I highly respect their values and beliefs. I teach and train them to learn good coping skills to manage and have control over their difficulties.
(920) 944-6097 View (920) 944-6097

See more therapy options for Menasha

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.