Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, also known as PCIT, is an evidence-based treatment model designed to help address disruptive behaviors in children ages 2-and-1/2 to 7. Behavioral issues in young children can manifest as physical or verbal aggression, short attention spans, difficulty regulating emotions, meltdowns, tantrums, destructiveness, excessive whining, constant crying, interrupting others, or other attention-seeking behaviors. When these problems are making it challenging for your child at home or school, PCIT may be the right solution for your family.

PCIT is a two-phase treatment that involves both the child and the parent working together with a trained therapist. During phase one, called Child Directed Interaction (CDI), the therapist coaches and guides the parent with an earpiece through play sessions with the child in a form of two-way mirror therapy. The therapist works with the parent to help the child develop PRIDE skills, which are essential for increasing those necessary positive interactions and connections.
P – Praise
R – Reflection
I – Imitation
D – Describe
E – Enjoy

Phase two is called Parent Directed Interaction (PDI) and this is when the therapist works with the parent to develop effective disciplinary protocols to curb unwanted behaviors. Parents learn the commands necessary to properly direct the interactions.

• PCIT is one of the most researched treatment approaches for children with over 300 studies being completed globally. While parents are left feeling more confident in their parenting style, children gain:
• Security with their caregiver.
• Increased attention span and ability to share and take turns.
• Decreased frequency, intensity, and duration of tantrums.
• Decreased hyperactivity and attention-seeking behavior.
• Increased confidence and self-esteem.
• Increased adult compliance and improved behavior at home and in public.
• Decreased aggression, destructiveness, and defiance.