Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
By Shauna Freedman, Psy.D.
[email protected]
[email protected]
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment program for young children (ages 2-7) displaying disruptive behaviors, including, but not limited to defiance, oppositionality, arguing, fighting and aggression. This parent-training approach focuses on strengthening and changing the interaction patterns within the parent-child dyad through modeling and coaching in the therapy room. Parents are taught specific skills that promote a secure and nurturing relationship with their child as well as skills to increase the child’s pro-social behavior and decrease negative behavior.
PCIT involves two phases: the Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) and the Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). In the CDI phase, parents learn to give positive attention to their child through a special play, which greatly enhances the parent-child relationship. At the same time, parents also learn to use active ignoring. In the PDI phase, parents learn how to give clear, direct commands and a specific time-out procedure to follow if commands are not obeyed by the child. While PCIT was originally designed for children with disruptive behavior disorders, it has also been adapted to help children with separation anxiety, social anxiety, and autism.
Call or email today to find out more about PCIT and other services we provide at PCPA!
Dr. Freedman is available to see patients ages 0-18 at our Vernon Hills, and Highland Park locations.
PCIT involves two phases: the Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) and the Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI). In the CDI phase, parents learn to give positive attention to their child through a special play, which greatly enhances the parent-child relationship. At the same time, parents also learn to use active ignoring. In the PDI phase, parents learn how to give clear, direct commands and a specific time-out procedure to follow if commands are not obeyed by the child. While PCIT was originally designed for children with disruptive behavior disorders, it has also been adapted to help children with separation anxiety, social anxiety, and autism.
Call or email today to find out more about PCIT and other services we provide at PCPA!
Dr. Freedman is available to see patients ages 0-18 at our Vernon Hills, and Highland Park locations.
