Counseling & Therapy Services provided at MHAC

What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy?

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy is a proven therapeutic approach designed to address behavioral issues in young children. The therapy involves coaching sessions that take place in a playroom, where you and your child will interact while a therapist observes from an adjacent room through a one-way mirror and/or a live video feed. To guide you through the process of learning how to manage your child's behavior, the therapist will provide in-the-moment coaching via a "bug-in-the-ear" device that you will wear during the sessions. PCIT consists of two treatment phases.  

First Phase 

During the first phase, the focus is on building a warm and positive relationship between you and your child. This is achieved by teaching and applying evidence-based techniques that have been shown to promote feelings of calmness, security, and positive self-regard in children. 

Second Phase 

In the second phase of PCIT treatment, you will acquire the skills to effectively manage even the most difficult behaviors exhibited by your child, all while maintaining a sense of confidence, composure, and consistency in your disciplinary approach. During this phase, you will learn evidence-based strategies to help your child recognize and accept boundaries, follow your directives, abide by household rules, and display appropriate behavior in public settings.

How do I know if this is right for my child/family?

PCIT may be the right fit for your child and family if your child is between the ages of 2-7, experiencing behavioral concerns, and you are able to commit to participating actively in therapy sessions and practicing skills learned at home. It aims to improve the parent-child relationship, decrease negative behaviors, and increase positive behaviors. The length of PCIT can vary depending on the needs of the child and family, but it generally involves 12-20 weekly sessions that each last around one hour.