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Writer's pictureSuri Nowosiolski

What is Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)?

Updated: Feb 14, 2021



Wouldn't it be great if children came with a manual? Unfortunately, they don't​ and parents are increasingly lost when their children just won't listen. What's a parent to do when their child just won't listen?


Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) was developed over 50 years ago by Dr. Sheila Eyberg for the treatment of children with problem behaviors. PCIT is a relatively short-term intervention that targets behavioral challenges in children. With protocols designed for toddlers (12-24 months), children (2-7 years) and older children (7-11 years), PCIT works to strengthen the parent-child relationship and puts parents in the best position possible to manage their child's behavior.


PCIT strengthens the parent-child relationship through a clear set of "Do's and Don'ts" for parents. Parent receive live coaching as they master the tools and techniques of PCIT. Parent Child Interaction Therapy has been proven to reduce problem behaviors and increase compliance in children in this age range. PCIT is unique in that it is conducted live, with the therapist giving real-time feedback using a 2-way microphone system. This allows the therapist to teach, coach and prompt the parent as the problem behaviors are unfolding!


PCIT is divided into two treatment segments. During the first segment, parents are coached on how to improve their relationship and connection with their child. Parents are taught how to shape and mold their child's behavior through use of their connection and positive reinforcement. Research has shown that children who have successfully completed this first phase demonstrate: improved communication skills, increased prosocial behaviors, better attention, increased self-regulation and experience greater attachment to their parent.

During the second segment of treatment, parents are taught evidence-based strategies for managing challenging behaviors with confidence, consistency and calm. It is in this segment of treatment that children learn to follow directions and accept limits. With the support of a therapist in live training, once the child learns to comply and accept limits, those skills are then generalized to household rules and behavior outside of the home.


By now, you may be wondering, "Would PCIT work for my child?" If your child is between the ages of 12 months and 11 years, and is struggling with emotional dysregulation, low frustration tolerance, anger management, or just won't listen to directions at home or at school, PCIT may be the treatment of choice for you.







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