Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Now available at the Fayetteville clinic: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

PCIT is a short-term, specialized behavior management program designed for families with young children who are experiencing behavioral and/or emotional difficulties. It teaches caregivers to manage their child’s difficult behaviors, while increasing their positive behaviors. PCIT works with the child and the caregiver together to improve behavior and reduce parenting stress.

PCIT is an exceptionally effective treatment backed by over 30 years of research. Live coaching is a hallmark of the therapy. The therapist observes the caregiver and child together, then provides coaching on the PCIT skills. Caregivers and therapists work together to manage challenging child behaviors.

PCIT at the Cohen Clinic consists of weekly sessions conducted in two treatment phases:

Phase 1

Caregivers are taught the PRIDE skills: Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe and Enjoyment. These skills promote positive child behaviors.

Phase 2

Caregivers learn to use effective commands and discipline procedures. The PCIT therapist helps caregivers manage their child’s behaviors in many settings.

PCIT is most effective with children ages two and a half to six years old who display any or all of the following:

• Parent-child relational problems
• Easy loss of temper
• Purposeful annoyance of others
• Destruction of property
• Difficulty staying seated
• Difficulty playing quietly
• Difficulty taking turns
• Refusal and defiance of adult requests

Could you and your child benefit from PCIT? Call the clinic today.