Behavioral Issues Therapists in Fort Smith, AR

Photo of Angie Ramsey, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72904
I am a Cognitive Behavior Therapist and also practice Person-Centered Therapy.
I am licensed in both AR and OK, I work online and in-person in both AR and OK. I feel everyone can utilize counseling at one time or another in their life. We all struggle with issues or problems that we need help working through. Therapy is not a bad word. It takes courage and strength to admit that you need help and take the steps to get that help. I want to provide a safe, therapeutic environment for you to talk about issues. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, families, and the elderly. I am a Christian and believe in the power of prayer.
I am a Cognitive Behavior Therapist and also practice Person-Centered Therapy.
I am licensed in both AR and OK, I work online and in-person in both AR and OK. I feel everyone can utilize counseling at one time or another in their life. We all struggle with issues or problems that we need help working through. Therapy is not a bad word. It takes courage and strength to admit that you need help and take the steps to get that help. I want to provide a safe, therapeutic environment for you to talk about issues. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, families, and the elderly. I am a Christian and believe in the power of prayer.
(539) 589-1808 View (539) 589-1808
Photo of Cherese F Riggs, MS, LPC-S, TF-CBT, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cherese F Riggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, TF-CBT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72901
I offer assistance to those that are seeking help for whatever the turn of life has brought about whether that be trauma, depression, anxiety, mood changes, child behavioral, marital, grief or family distributions.
Life sometimes creates some unexpected turns that we have difficulty managing. I'm here to help people manage and cope with those turns, to provide support and help so that a client and their family can get back to a place of peace.
I offer assistance to those that are seeking help for whatever the turn of life has brought about whether that be trauma, depression, anxiety, mood changes, child behavioral, marital, grief or family distributions.
Life sometimes creates some unexpected turns that we have difficulty managing. I'm here to help people manage and cope with those turns, to provide support and help so that a client and their family can get back to a place of peace.
(918) 235-6730 View (918) 235-6730
Photo of Alexandria Kerr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I have many years of experience working through behavioral, school, and communication concerns with young adults and youth-at-risk, including court-involved youth.
Life can be a chaotic mess. Especially for adolescents and young adults trying to learn about themselves while navigating environmental pressures. Challenges such as first jobs, new relationships, evaluating potential career paths, and exploring new identities can lead to increases in anxiety, anger, and self- esteem issues.
I have many years of experience working through behavioral, school, and communication concerns with young adults and youth-at-risk, including court-involved youth.
Life can be a chaotic mess. Especially for adolescents and young adults trying to learn about themselves while navigating environmental pressures. Challenges such as first jobs, new relationships, evaluating potential career paths, and exploring new identities can lead to increases in anxiety, anger, and self- esteem issues.
(479) 239-9230 View (479) 239-9230
Photo of Pablo Albuja, MS, LPC, CCTP, EMDR, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pablo Albuja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, EMDR, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72916
Main theories utilized are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focus.
Science has shown that mental health issues might not be only genetic, but also the result of current of past adverse experiences, causing unwanted symptoms to appear. As human beings we need connection with others and psychotherapy might be a powerful tool to help heal emotional wounds. ESPAÑOL: Ciencia ha demostrado que trastornos de salud mental no solo pueden ser genéticos pero también el resultado de experiencias adversas presentes o del pasado, causando sintomas no deseados. Como seres humanos necesitamos conexión emocional con otros . Psicoterapia puede una herramienta poderosa para ayudar a sanar de lesiones emocionales.
Main theories utilized are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focus.
Science has shown that mental health issues might not be only genetic, but also the result of current of past adverse experiences, causing unwanted symptoms to appear. As human beings we need connection with others and psychotherapy might be a powerful tool to help heal emotional wounds. ESPAÑOL: Ciencia ha demostrado que trastornos de salud mental no solo pueden ser genéticos pero también el resultado de experiencias adversas presentes o del pasado, causando sintomas no deseados. Como seres humanos necesitamos conexión emocional con otros . Psicoterapia puede una herramienta poderosa para ayudar a sanar de lesiones emocionales.
(479) 668-4538 View (479) 668-4538
Photo of Jackie Susan Scarborough, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Susan Scarborough
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I have worked with various ages and issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, empathic, and genuine. My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral and humanistic. I believe that in many instances, our thought patterns directly affect our emotions and, subsequently, our behavior. I come from a viewpoint that you are the expert of you. No one knows you better than you! I look at myself as a guide and allow my clients to dictate the course and direction of counseling.
I have worked with various ages and issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, empathic, and genuine. My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral and humanistic. I believe that in many instances, our thought patterns directly affect our emotions and, subsequently, our behavior. I come from a viewpoint that you are the expert of you. No one knows you better than you! I look at myself as a guide and allow my clients to dictate the course and direction of counseling.
(479) 227-2652 View (479) 227-2652
Photo of Danielle Patterson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
My clinical practice includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, sand tray, parts work, and somatic EMDR.
So many of us have been through traumatic experiences that have left us feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and falling into unhealthy patterns. We experience an inner critical voice that tells us we are not good enough, ugly, or worthless. I love to provide a safe and comforting space for clients to process their difficult life experiences, break through cycles of shame, and begin recovery from addictive behaviors, including with eating and embodiment issues. Together, we focus on healing, reclaiming health, practicing intuitive self-care, celebrating your authentic self and beauty, and cultivating self-love.
My clinical practice includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, sand tray, parts work, and somatic EMDR.
So many of us have been through traumatic experiences that have left us feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and falling into unhealthy patterns. We experience an inner critical voice that tells us we are not good enough, ugly, or worthless. I love to provide a safe and comforting space for clients to process their difficult life experiences, break through cycles of shame, and begin recovery from addictive behaviors, including with eating and embodiment issues. Together, we focus on healing, reclaiming health, practicing intuitive self-care, celebrating your authentic self and beauty, and cultivating self-love.
(479) 310-0664 View (479) 310-0664
Photo of Kristan Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristan Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I have also received training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP).
Life can be challenging. These challenging moments may bring feelings of confusion, hurt, depression, anxiety, and shame. One of the most difficult steps to take is reaching out and seeking help. I feel privileged each time an individual is willing to share their story with me and genuinely believe that everyone has the ability to achieve healing despite their life experiences. My clinical focus is on children, adolescents, and young adults and I am passionate about assisting these individuals in navigating through the difficult elements of their journey.
I have also received training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP).
Life can be challenging. These challenging moments may bring feelings of confusion, hurt, depression, anxiety, and shame. One of the most difficult steps to take is reaching out and seeking help. I feel privileged each time an individual is willing to share their story with me and genuinely believe that everyone has the ability to achieve healing despite their life experiences. My clinical focus is on children, adolescents, and young adults and I am passionate about assisting these individuals in navigating through the difficult elements of their journey.
(479) 315-5876 View (479) 315-5876
Photo of David Bourne, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Bourne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and animal assisted therapy are my primary approaches to help healing happen.
Everyone has a rough time sometimes. This can be a result of trauma or mental health or even our own choices. My goal as a therapist is to help recover from those times and enter the next phase of healing so that the third phase of life can be amazing. Our past doesn't define us but how we respond to the past can define us. Let's work together to make that the most positive growth point.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and animal assisted therapy are my primary approaches to help healing happen.
Everyone has a rough time sometimes. This can be a result of trauma or mental health or even our own choices. My goal as a therapist is to help recover from those times and enter the next phase of healing so that the third phase of life can be amazing. Our past doesn't define us but how we respond to the past can define us. Let's work together to make that the most positive growth point.
(479) 370-1661 View (479) 370-1661
Photo of Shawnda Wear, MS, LAC, Counselor
Shawnda Wear
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
(479) 323-2519 View (479) 323-2519
Photo of Bryant Prieto, MS, LPC-TA, NCC, ACCTS, EMDR-CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryant Prieto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-TA, NCC, ACCTS, EMDR-CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
It might mean having to face the past head on, working through a loss, or life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that keeps you stuck.
Are you tired of living life only to survive? Are you ready to take the steps into living to thrive? Are you ready take control back over your life? I am an Advanced Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist trained in a variety of modalities designed to help you navigate through the healing process. Certified in EMDR therapy as one of my primary approaches, I utilize many evidence-based therapies to help you get to the life you have always wanted to live.
It might mean having to face the past head on, working through a loss, or life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that keeps you stuck.
Are you tired of living life only to survive? Are you ready to take the steps into living to thrive? Are you ready take control back over your life? I am an Advanced Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist trained in a variety of modalities designed to help you navigate through the healing process. Certified in EMDR therapy as one of my primary approaches, I utilize many evidence-based therapies to help you get to the life you have always wanted to live.
(479) 668-3171 View (479) 668-3171
Photo of Natasha M. Poindexter, MS, LPC, TA , Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha M. Poindexter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Specialized trainings: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Certified TeleMental Health (TA).
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I especially enjoy working with individuals, families, and relationships facing a variety of challenges. Life can be difficult and we face many obstacles along the way. As your therapist, I will walk along side you and honor the journey you are on, while providing insight into ways to improve your overall functioning and well-being.
Specialized trainings: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Certified TeleMental Health (TA).
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I especially enjoy working with individuals, families, and relationships facing a variety of challenges. Life can be difficult and we face many obstacles along the way. As your therapist, I will walk along side you and honor the journey you are on, while providing insight into ways to improve your overall functioning and well-being.
(479) 337-7414 View (479) 337-7414
Photo of Dr. Lisa Albuja, PhD, CCTP, CYTP, CFTP, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Lisa Albuja
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CCTP, CYTP, CFTP, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72916
I specialize in Adverse Childhood Experiences, trauma, PTSD, behavioral issues, relationship problems, court mandated issues, depression, anxiety and anger.
Where do I go from here you might ask? You've endured a traumatic experience, maybe even more than once. You just had another blowout with your troublesome child or your family is in a spiraling crisis. You're in a volatile custody battle. Perhaps you don't recognize who you are anymore. You are paralyzed with fear or you don't know why you are so sad. Did that last explosive outburst of anger cross a penalizing line? I can help. I can work to help you function, to overcome a baffling obstacle or see a new vista.
I specialize in Adverse Childhood Experiences, trauma, PTSD, behavioral issues, relationship problems, court mandated issues, depression, anxiety and anger.
Where do I go from here you might ask? You've endured a traumatic experience, maybe even more than once. You just had another blowout with your troublesome child or your family is in a spiraling crisis. You're in a volatile custody battle. Perhaps you don't recognize who you are anymore. You are paralyzed with fear or you don't know why you are so sad. Did that last explosive outburst of anger cross a penalizing line? I can help. I can work to help you function, to overcome a baffling obstacle or see a new vista.
(479) 282-2827 View (479) 282-2827
Photo of Terrence W McKnight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terrence W McKnight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Being a parent can be overwhelming, I help parents and their children learn how to respectfully communicate with one another and reduce tension in the home. I enjoy working with children and adolescents along with their parents to bring stability, cohesiveness and peace to families. I specialize in working with individuals with ADHD ( Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ODD ( Oppositional Defiant Disorder), Anger and Behavioral Dysregulation Issues.
Being a parent can be overwhelming, I help parents and their children learn how to respectfully communicate with one another and reduce tension in the home. I enjoy working with children and adolescents along with their parents to bring stability, cohesiveness and peace to families. I specialize in working with individuals with ADHD ( Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ODD ( Oppositional Defiant Disorder), Anger and Behavioral Dysregulation Issues.
(479) 763-3038 View (479) 763-3038
Photo of Heather Ray - Ray of Sunshine Pediatric Therapy, LLC, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Ray of Sunshine Pediatric Therapy, LLC
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72908
Contact us for further information on getting an evaluation for pediatric therapy services - we can see 0-21 years of age and specialize in child-led therapy, sensory regulation, autism treatment, developmental delays, and behavioral/emotional regulation!.
We are a mobile clinic that brings therapy to your child’s school, daycare, or your doorstep! Our clinic is credentialed in multiple private and state insurances and service two states (Oklahoma and Arkansas).
Contact us for further information on getting an evaluation for pediatric therapy services - we can see 0-21 years of age and specialize in child-led therapy, sensory regulation, autism treatment, developmental delays, and behavioral/emotional regulation!.
We are a mobile clinic that brings therapy to your child’s school, daycare, or your doorstep! Our clinic is credentialed in multiple private and state insurances and service two states (Oklahoma and Arkansas).
(479) 348-1063 View (479) 348-1063
Photo of Shelby Knapple - Wholistic Health, LPC-TA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wholistic Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72901
Wholistic Health can perform psychological testing for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and behavior issues.
At Wholistic Health, we have multiple clinicians available to accommodate your needs. Specifically, we provide EMDR therapy which is helpful when a person is feeling “stuck” on a particular emotion or traumatic memory, as well as play therapy for kids and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or CBT for adults. DBT is focused on helping those who struggle with suicidal thoughts or feel like their emotions are in control of them.
Wholistic Health can perform psychological testing for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and behavior issues.
At Wholistic Health, we have multiple clinicians available to accommodate your needs. Specifically, we provide EMDR therapy which is helpful when a person is feeling “stuck” on a particular emotion or traumatic memory, as well as play therapy for kids and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or CBT for adults. DBT is focused on helping those who struggle with suicidal thoughts or feel like their emotions are in control of them.
(479) 888-8187 View (479) 888-8187
Photo of Shauna Cox, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shauna Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I have over 10 years of counseling experience in multiple settings including public school, community behavioral health, and private practice.
I believe it is possible to make what is overwhelming manageable, improve daily functioning, and meet individual goals through skill development and new understandings. I provide support for adolescents, teens, individual adults, and couples while meeting life struggles and challenges.
I have over 10 years of counseling experience in multiple settings including public school, community behavioral health, and private practice.
I believe it is possible to make what is overwhelming manageable, improve daily functioning, and meet individual goals through skill development and new understandings. I provide support for adolescents, teens, individual adults, and couples while meeting life struggles and challenges.
(479) 398-2127 View (479) 398-2127
Photo of Datonna Cross - Therapy But Different, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy But Different
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72908  (Online Only)
I specialize in holistic and integrative therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other methods necessary to provide comprehensive treatment to address each client as whole (mind and body).
I am Dr. Datonna Higgins and I am so glad you are here! I learned long ago that time does not heal us in and of itself, but rather it's what we do with that time that makes all of the difference. Whether navigating a difficult life transition, loss, relationship struggles, or trying to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction...now will always be the perfect time to start or continue on your journey to healing. Quality and personable mental health treatment should be easily accessible to all, which is why I strive to provide virtual counseling with an in-person feel. Distance counseling should not feel distant!
I specialize in holistic and integrative therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and other methods necessary to provide comprehensive treatment to address each client as whole (mind and body).
I am Dr. Datonna Higgins and I am so glad you are here! I learned long ago that time does not heal us in and of itself, but rather it's what we do with that time that makes all of the difference. Whether navigating a difficult life transition, loss, relationship struggles, or trying to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction...now will always be the perfect time to start or continue on your journey to healing. Quality and personable mental health treatment should be easily accessible to all, which is why I strive to provide virtual counseling with an in-person feel. Distance counseling should not feel distant!
(539) 995-4464 View (539) 995-4464
Photo of Rhiannon Pacheco, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhiannon Pacheco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and their families. Children communicate best through their natural language of play. My counseling approach focuses on meeting children's needs emotionally and developmentally through play therapy. Being able to help children and their families improve their daily life is a privilege. I believe that all people have the capability of changing and working through life's difficulties with the support of a therapeutic relationship. I believe this relationship is the primary motivating factor to facilitate growth. .
I provide mental health services to children, adolescents, and their families. Children communicate best through their natural language of play. My counseling approach focuses on meeting children's needs emotionally and developmentally through play therapy. Being able to help children and their families improve their daily life is a privilege. I believe that all people have the capability of changing and working through life's difficulties with the support of a therapeutic relationship. I believe this relationship is the primary motivating factor to facilitate growth. .
(479) 208-5563 View (479) 208-5563
Photo of Ricky Huggins, M-Div, D-Min, M Ed, LADC-S, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ricky Huggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, M-Div, D-Min, M Ed, LADC-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72901
Ricky is a board approved Supervisor coaching counseling candidates for licensure for both LPC and LADC Oklahoma Counseling Boards. At Your Best Journey we can help you develop your story into a preferred future. We offer Licensed Oklahoma LADC-MH-S and LPC-S services and Licensed Arkansas LADAC services. Arkansas and Oklahoma SAP DOT evaluations are done within 48 hours. DUI assessments and classes are available. Free phone consultation available. We offer Mental Health Coaching; Substance Use Disorder Services; Consulting with Faith Groups; Employee Assistance Life Skills and are Certified Clinical Trauma Professionals...
Ricky is a board approved Supervisor coaching counseling candidates for licensure for both LPC and LADC Oklahoma Counseling Boards. At Your Best Journey we can help you develop your story into a preferred future. We offer Licensed Oklahoma LADC-MH-S and LPC-S services and Licensed Arkansas LADAC services. Arkansas and Oklahoma SAP DOT evaluations are done within 48 hours. DUI assessments and classes are available. Free phone consultation available. We offer Mental Health Coaching; Substance Use Disorder Services; Consulting with Faith Groups; Employee Assistance Life Skills and are Certified Clinical Trauma Professionals...
(918) 564-2199 View (918) 564-2199
Photo of Bryant Prieto - New Leaf Counseling of the River Valley , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Leaf Counseling of the River Valley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you often feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, working hard just to get through the day? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to move beyond the loss, beyond the trauma that continues to impact their careers, their relationships, their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you often feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, working hard just to get through the day? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to move beyond the loss, beyond the trauma that continues to impact their careers, their relationships, their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
(479) 448-4696 View (479) 448-4696

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Behavioral Issues Therapists

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.