Photo of Mariel White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Mariel White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I started my career in nursing in 2016 as an RN at McLean Hospital, working on a substance use disorder unit for adults. In 2017 I completed an NP eating disorder fellowship through Walden Behavioral Care. In 2017 I began working in the MGH Ed performing crisis psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients through the lifespan. I continue to work part-time with the Acute psychiatric services team at MGH. 2019-2020 I worked inpatient child psychiatry in Savannah, GA. I am currently working at Boston Children’s Hospital in Waltham on the inpatient and CBAT units.
I started my career in nursing in 2016 as an RN at McLean Hospital, working on a substance use disorder unit for adults. In 2017 I completed an NP eating disorder fellowship through Walden Behavioral Care. In 2017 I began working in the MGH Ed performing crisis psychiatric evaluations and follow ups for patients through the lifespan. I continue to work part-time with the Acute psychiatric services team at MGH. 2019-2020 I worked inpatient child psychiatry in Savannah, GA. I am currently working at Boston Children’s Hospital in Waltham on the inpatient and CBAT units.
(857) 376-6836 View (857) 376-6836
Photo of Asma Rashid, Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Asma Rashid
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I have extensive experience of working with schools performing psychiatric evaluations, with children and teenagers struggling with mood, anxiety, attention, behavior and learning difficulties.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
I have extensive experience of working with schools performing psychiatric evaluations, with children and teenagers struggling with mood, anxiety, attention, behavior and learning difficulties.
I am a Harvard trained, board certified, Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with a private practice in Back Bay Area, Boston. I believe that, the treatment process begins by creating an empathic and trusting relationship between the clinician and patients. During my evaluation and ongoing work, I consider various factors such as, genetic predisposition, biological, psychological and social processes to understand the person fully. Academic affiliation with Boston University helps me stay abreast with not only the recent developments in the field of psychiatry but also with the cultural and evidence based treatments.
(617) 500-3181 View (617) 500-3181
Photo of Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare ), Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare )
Psychiatrist, MD, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02105  (Online Only)
With evidence-based treatment techniques that include individual, family, or coupe therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, insight-focused counseling, as well as psychiatric medicine and TMS, we take a holistic approach to your treatment.
SNBCare is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated professionals, providing the best quality care for a wide range of outpatient mental health services. We have been serving adults, families, and couples for over a decade in a caring, patient-friendly environment. We are offering Telemedicine and Teletherapy through video to all who want to be seen during this time, as well as TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). We accept almost all insurances. We are currently accepting new patients for telemedicine, teletherapy, and TMS and would be honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
With evidence-based treatment techniques that include individual, family, or coupe therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, insight-focused counseling, as well as psychiatric medicine and TMS, we take a holistic approach to your treatment.
SNBCare is a multidisciplinary group of dedicated professionals, providing the best quality care for a wide range of outpatient mental health services. We have been serving adults, families, and couples for over a decade in a caring, patient-friendly environment. We are offering Telemedicine and Teletherapy through video to all who want to be seen during this time, as well as TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). We accept almost all insurances. We are currently accepting new patients for telemedicine, teletherapy, and TMS and would be honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
(508) 271-7198 View (508) 271-7198
Photo of Simon M. Selwyn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Simon M. Selwyn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I have years of training and experience in clinical psychiatric hospitals: McLean Hospital (PTSD), Westborough Behavior Health (Children), MiraVista (Mood Disorders & Psychosis), South Shore Psychiatric Services.
I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and medication management of a wide range of mental health issues. Your unique goals and needs are at the forefront of my practice. Kindness, compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude are the cornerstones of who I am, both professionally and personally. I offer a safe space to work collaboratively and guide you to a more balanced place, towards your particular goals. I look forward to supporting you through difficult periods of your life and empowering you to take back your mental health. My web site: www.belmontpsychiatricservices.com.
I have years of training and experience in clinical psychiatric hospitals: McLean Hospital (PTSD), Westborough Behavior Health (Children), MiraVista (Mood Disorders & Psychosis), South Shore Psychiatric Services.
I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and medication management of a wide range of mental health issues. Your unique goals and needs are at the forefront of my practice. Kindness, compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude are the cornerstones of who I am, both professionally and personally. I offer a safe space to work collaboratively and guide you to a more balanced place, towards your particular goals. I look forward to supporting you through difficult periods of your life and empowering you to take back your mental health. My web site: www.belmontpsychiatricservices.com.
(617) 356-0837 View (617) 356-0837
Photo of Holistic Behavioral Health M S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Holistic Behavioral Health M S
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
At Holistic Behavioral Health Multi Services (HBHMS), We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and assessments to adolescents and adults. We pride ourselves in offering compassionate mental health services to our patients dealing with Anxiety Depression Insomnia PTSD, ADHD and Mood Disorders. Our goal is to help and support each individual as they are going through their distressing experiences. Our board-certified professionals have the knowledge, experience, and desire to ensure that our patients receive the best quality care.
At Holistic Behavioral Health Multi Services (HBHMS), We provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and assessments to adolescents and adults. We pride ourselves in offering compassionate mental health services to our patients dealing with Anxiety Depression Insomnia PTSD, ADHD and Mood Disorders. Our goal is to help and support each individual as they are going through their distressing experiences. Our board-certified professionals have the knowledge, experience, and desire to ensure that our patients receive the best quality care.
(781) 287-8722 View (781) 287-8722
Photo of Stephanie Weingard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Stephanie Weingard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. I offer Medication Management & Counseling/Supportive Psychotherapy online via Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida, Massachusetts & Arizona. I am an experienced Independently licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Service Member. I provide care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 7 and above. I accept most insurance plans including United, Oscar, Oxford, Aetna, Cigna and Florida Blue. I also accept cash pay clients without insurance.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. I offer Medication Management & Counseling/Supportive Psychotherapy online via Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida, Massachusetts & Arizona. I am an experienced Independently licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Service Member. I provide care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 7 and above. I accept most insurance plans including United, Oscar, Oxford, Aetna, Cigna and Florida Blue. I also accept cash pay clients without insurance.
(413) 327-9843 View (413) 327-9843
Photo of Joshua Hatcher-Mullins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Joshua Hatcher-Mullins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111  (Online Only)
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication.
Joshua believes in caring for the whole person holistically. He strives to understand current mental health concerns as well as various stressors and past traumas. He provides a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment for clients. He works collaboratively with clients to create a plan, overcome stuck points, and reach treatment goals utilizing both therapeutic techniques and medication.
(508) 684-2846 View (508) 684-2846
Photo of Samuel Sheffield, Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Samuel Sheffield
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115
If your mental health challenges are hindering your personal, academic, or professional life, and you are ready to ask for help, you have taken a significant step by starting your search. I would like to help you find a path to greater well-being. My approach begins with a consultation to discuss your concerns and treatment options.
If your mental health challenges are hindering your personal, academic, or professional life, and you are ready to ask for help, you have taken a significant step by starting your search. I would like to help you find a path to greater well-being. My approach begins with a consultation to discuss your concerns and treatment options.
(617) 440-3579 View (617) 440-3579
Photo of Joseph Lavoie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Joseph Lavoie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118
People reach out to me with a variety of concerns including anxiety, attention difficulty, depression, sleep trouble, grief, relationship issues, sexual identity, self-esteem, life transitions and so much more. Whether a teenager, young adult, middle-aged or older, my clients are looking for help to overcome personal struggles and to achieve their optimal potential for mental, emotional, and physical health.
People reach out to me with a variety of concerns including anxiety, attention difficulty, depression, sleep trouble, grief, relationship issues, sexual identity, self-esteem, life transitions and so much more. Whether a teenager, young adult, middle-aged or older, my clients are looking for help to overcome personal struggles and to achieve their optimal potential for mental, emotional, and physical health.
(617) 544-0493 View (617) 544-0493
Photo of Temitope Obasekola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Temitope Obasekola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
Welcome! I am currently accepting new patients. As a provider, my approach to care is one of unwavering support for you as the patient. I try my best to provide a thoughtful and individualized approach to psychiatric care. As a clinician who practices in a group setting, I have the opportunity to be part of a practice that consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers and therapists who have extensive training in psychotherapy. Although I am primarily a medication prescriber; and yes, medications can be very helpful, I also believe and insist on providing more than medication. As such, your care will be integrated and unfragmented.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new patients. As a provider, my approach to care is one of unwavering support for you as the patient. I try my best to provide a thoughtful and individualized approach to psychiatric care. As a clinician who practices in a group setting, I have the opportunity to be part of a practice that consists of multiple psychiatric prescribers and therapists who have extensive training in psychotherapy. Although I am primarily a medication prescriber; and yes, medications can be very helpful, I also believe and insist on providing more than medication. As such, your care will be integrated and unfragmented.
(617) 639-9420 View (617) 639-9420
Photo of Charissa Turner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Charissa Turner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Charissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Life Transitions and Bipolar Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Charissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Life Transitions and Bipolar Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 941-9538 View (617) 941-9538
Photo of Jackie Ollis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Jackie Ollis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 676-2835 View (617) 676-2835
Photo of Joe Gallego, Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Joe Gallego
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
Making the decision to pursue psychiatric treatment requires courage and motivation. As your psychiatrist, I honor your willingness to be vulnerable with me by being transparent with you throughout our work together. My clinical approach balances directness with empathy, shared expectation with flexibility, and professionalism with humor and warmth. I provide psychiatric evaluations, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication management to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about caring for LGBTQIA+ people, and I have been researching and teaching about queer issues in health care for the past ten years.
(508) 374-9271 View (508) 374-9271
Photo of Matthew Griffin, Physician Assistant in Boston, MA
Matthew Griffin
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Matthew Griffin is a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) who has worked in Psychiatry in multiple different capacities. He started his medical career as a Nursing Assistant in Geriatric Psychiatry while in his undergrad. Soon after graduating from Bridgewater State University in 2016, with a Bachelors in Health, he went on to a Physician Assistant graduate program. He graduated with his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from New York Institute of Technology in 2020 and soon after began his Psychiatric Physician Assistant career.
Matthew Griffin is a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) who has worked in Psychiatry in multiple different capacities. He started his medical career as a Nursing Assistant in Geriatric Psychiatry while in his undergrad. Soon after graduating from Bridgewater State University in 2016, with a Bachelors in Health, he went on to a Physician Assistant graduate program. He graduated with his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from New York Institute of Technology in 2020 and soon after began his Psychiatric Physician Assistant career.
(857) 420-6956 View (857) 420-6956
Photo of Olubunmi Olawale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Olubunmi Olawale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02136  (Online Only)
Mental health is a priority to you and us at the Heritage Health System. We care for your mental health needs. We're aimed at supporting you to achieve your goal of a good level of functioning. We also prioritize your needs by ensuring an adequate evaluation of your presenting concerns/symptoms and come up with the appropriate diagnosis and treatment as required. I consult with your therapist and other treaters to provide expert medication management across the diagnostic spectrum. We address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, schizophrenia and dual diagnosis.
Mental health is a priority to you and us at the Heritage Health System. We care for your mental health needs. We're aimed at supporting you to achieve your goal of a good level of functioning. We also prioritize your needs by ensuring an adequate evaluation of your presenting concerns/symptoms and come up with the appropriate diagnosis and treatment as required. I consult with your therapist and other treaters to provide expert medication management across the diagnostic spectrum. We address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, schizophrenia and dual diagnosis.
(857) 855-6399 View (857) 855-6399
Photo of Christopher Robertson, Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Christopher Robertson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD, depression, autism and those who are  gender-diverse or other LGBTQ+ individuals. I believe in guiding and empowering you to make your own decisions about what is right for you and your mental health. Whether through diagnosis, medication, or therapy, I will help you meet your personal treatment goals. Ultimately, I believe the relationship between the clinician and the patient is the most important factor in treatment.
I am a board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD, depression, autism and those who are  gender-diverse or other LGBTQ+ individuals. I believe in guiding and empowering you to make your own decisions about what is right for you and your mental health. Whether through diagnosis, medication, or therapy, I will help you meet your personal treatment goals. Ultimately, I believe the relationship between the clinician and the patient is the most important factor in treatment.
(617) 221-5040 View (617) 221-5040
Photo of Beth Makar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Beth Makar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, , Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Infertility, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss, grief, bereavement, Men's Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Sexual Health/Dysfunction, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Beth and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in ADHD, , Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Infertility, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss, grief, bereavement, Men's Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Sexual Health/Dysfunction, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(617) 944-5189 View (617) 944-5189
Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, Psychiatrist in Boston, MA
Dr. Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(617) 431-4864 View (617) 431-4864
Photo of Holistic Well , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
Hello and welcome! My name is Rachel Zagarella and I am a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on providing compassionate care for individuals seeking support with their mental health. With a deep commitment to helping others, I specialize in understanding your unique needs and developing personalized treatment plans. Through evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach, we can work together to enhance your mental well-being. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation, and let’s embark on your journey towards lasting wellness.
(508) 690-8110 View (508) 690-8110
Photo of Lisa Marie Shaffer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Boston, MA
Lisa Marie Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Lisa Shaffer is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including, inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. She works collaboratively with clients of all ages integrating medication management, and psychotherapy in order to empower her clients in becoming their best self.
Lisa Shaffer is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. She has several years of experience in both medical and psychiatric care settings including, inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. She works collaboratively with clients of all ages integrating medication management, and psychotherapy in order to empower her clients in becoming their best self.
(617) 855-0075 View (617) 855-0075
Behavioral Issues Psychiatrists

What happens in therapy for behavioral issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behavior issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioral issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioral issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioral concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behavior management, often used when the underlying cause of behavior issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioral issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behavior issues?

Studies show that therapy for behavior issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behavior later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behavior. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.