Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Overview
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy is an evidence-based approach that allows caregivers the opportunity to practice skills to navigate challenging child behavior. Support is available for caregivers of children ages 2 to 9 years old. PCIT is conducted through “coaching” sessions that take place with both the caregiver and the child. Each session is play-based, and caregivers receive in-the-moment coaching on skills they are learning.
PCIT can typically be completed with just 12-20 sessions. However, it is not time-limited, meaning treatment is officially considered complete when skills from both treatment phases have been mastered and the child's behavior falls within normal limits on a behavior rating scale.
What happens in the first phase?
The first phase of treatment focuses on reinforcing the warmth in your relationship with your child. You will learn and practice the skills utilized by actual play therapists which help children feel calm, confident, and secure in their relationship with their caregivers. During this phase,
you will have the opportunity to increase the positive, enjoyable interactions with your child, which can be infrequent when there is significant misbehavior.
What happens in the second phase?
The second phase of treatment provides you with the tools to manage the most challenging caregiving situations calmly, safely, and consistently. In this phase, you will receive live coaching to assist you with setting and upholding appropriate limits at home and in public.