Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment designed for children ages 2 to 7 who struggle with things like frequent tantrums, impulsivity, difficulty following directions, disruptive behaviors, or emotional regulation difficulties. This practice focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship while teaching caregivers how to manage behavior in a supportive, consistent way.

What makes PCIT different and most effective is its live coaching model. During sessions, we will observe the parent and child and provide real-time feedback. Coaching can be in person with a one-way mirror or virtually through video chat as you and your child play in your own home with their own toys. This hands-on approach helps parents apply positive parenting strategies with confidence and effectiveness.

PCIT is broken down into two phases. In the first phase, Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) parents learn to follow their child's lead in play, using specific skills to nurture warmth, attention, and cooperation. This phase strengthens the emotional bond between parent and child. Optimizing your relationship with your child will help establish a secure foundation from which we can build parenting strategies.

Once the parent has mastered the skills taught in CDI, we move on to the second phase, Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). During this stage, parents learn to provide clear instructions, establish consistent boundaries, and enforce predictable consequences. These strategies help decrease disruptive behavior and strengthen the child’s ability to listen and follow directions.

PCIT treatment typically lasts 12-16 weeks, with many parents noticing improvements during the CDI phase. Each stage of PCIT includes instructional sessions in which parent(s) meet with me to learn that phase’s specific skills. These teaching sessions are followed by coaching sessions, where we use various techniques to provide real-time guidance until the parent demonstrates mastery.

More information about PCIT can be found on the treatment’s official website https://www.pcit.org/about