Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

PCIT is an exceptionally effective treatment backed by over 30 years of research. Live coaching is a hallmark of PCIT. The provider observes the caregiver and child together, then provides coaching on the PCIT skills. Caregivers and providers work together to manage challenging child behaviors.

Advantages of live coaching:

• Skills are acquired rapidly by caregivers, as they practice in the moment with provider support.
• Providers offer support as caregivers gain confidence and master their skills.
• Providers give immediate feedback about strategies to manage the child’s challenging behaviors.

PCIT is for children ages 2 ½ to 6 who display any or all of the following:

• Parent-child relational problems
• Refusal and defiance of adult requests
• Easy loss of temper
• Purposeful annoyance of others
• Destruction of property
• Difficulty staying seated
• Difficulty playing quietly
• Difficulty taking turns

PCIT consists of weekly sessions conducted in two treatment phases.

PHASE I: Child-Directed Interaction (CDI)
Caregivers are taught the PRIDE skills:
Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe and Enjoyment.
These skills promote positive child behaviors.

PHASE II: Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI)
Caregivers learn to use effective commands and discipline procedures. The PCIT provider helps caregivers manage their child’s behaviors in many settings.