Photo of Suzanne Oelke, Counselor in 98102, WA
Suzanne Oelke
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Everyone has the innate capacity to grow through difficulties and my goal is to support and empower you to connect to your inherent inner resources. I work with adults struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, self esteem, divorce, stress, and behavioral addictions such as porn and shopping. I believe that growth occurs through caring, compassion and learning to reconnect with the wisdom of your body. We will build on your strengths and shed the negative messages of dominant systems. We will discover what you really care about to establish loving connections to yourself and others.
Everyone has the innate capacity to grow through difficulties and my goal is to support and empower you to connect to your inherent inner resources. I work with adults struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, self esteem, divorce, stress, and behavioral addictions such as porn and shopping. I believe that growth occurs through caring, compassion and learning to reconnect with the wisdom of your body. We will build on your strengths and shed the negative messages of dominant systems. We will discover what you really care about to establish loving connections to yourself and others.
(206) 899-0427 View (206) 899-0427
Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in 98102, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
My counseling approach draws upon social justice frameworks, ecological systems theory, cognitive behavior theory, REBT, strengths-based perspectives, internal family systems, attachment theory and trauma-informed approaches.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
My counseling approach draws upon social justice frameworks, ecological systems theory, cognitive behavior theory, REBT, strengths-based perspectives, internal family systems, attachment theory and trauma-informed approaches.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
(206) 483-0434 View (206) 483-0434
Photo of Mary Deggelman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
Mary Deggelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
It is an innovative form of behavioral health integrating counseling, movement and nature with the intent to strengthen mental fitness, physical fitness and the mind-body connection.
I am licensed in both the states of CA. and WA. My goal is to facilitate the process of innate healing and self-discovery for individuals and families seeking to improve their overall quality of life. I am a firm believer that obstacles may be turned into opportunities. Through both curious questioning and active listening, together we may illuminate your strengths and opportunity areas of growth. My objective is that after our first session, you will feel that we have a pathway for a desired solution. I have worked with ages ranging from 5 to 85 years young. I treat each individual, couple, or family with respect and warmth.
It is an innovative form of behavioral health integrating counseling, movement and nature with the intent to strengthen mental fitness, physical fitness and the mind-body connection.
I am licensed in both the states of CA. and WA. My goal is to facilitate the process of innate healing and self-discovery for individuals and families seeking to improve their overall quality of life. I am a firm believer that obstacles may be turned into opportunities. Through both curious questioning and active listening, together we may illuminate your strengths and opportunity areas of growth. My objective is that after our first session, you will feel that we have a pathway for a desired solution. I have worked with ages ranging from 5 to 85 years young. I treat each individual, couple, or family with respect and warmth.
(510) 662-0838 View (510) 662-0838
Photo of Alexander Johnson, Counselor in 98102, WA
Alexander Johnson
Counselor, MA, , LMHC, CDP, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My overarching experience includes clinical services in the mental health, chemical dependency, and behavioral health fields with males and females ages 5 to 65+ from varying cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds for over 13 years.
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
My overarching experience includes clinical services in the mental health, chemical dependency, and behavioral health fields with males and females ages 5 to 65+ from varying cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds for over 13 years.
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
(206) 984-3340 View (206) 984-3340
Photo of David Bradshaw, Counselor in 98102, WA
David Bradshaw
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I'm David Bradshaw, I am from Washington State, and I currently live in Birch Bay WA. I was born in 1990, I'm an avid reader, I also enjoy Chess, Meditation, Backpacking, Hunting, and Boxing. I'm a bit of a nerd as well, and I build my own desktop computers. I would say the Pasayten Wilderness Area is one of my happy places. I practice Adlerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I work with clients aged 12 and up, including adults and couples. I am also a Clinical Supervisor and can train new counselors helping them earn hours toward their licensure.
I'm David Bradshaw, I am from Washington State, and I currently live in Birch Bay WA. I was born in 1990, I'm an avid reader, I also enjoy Chess, Meditation, Backpacking, Hunting, and Boxing. I'm a bit of a nerd as well, and I build my own desktop computers. I would say the Pasayten Wilderness Area is one of my happy places. I practice Adlerian Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I work with clients aged 12 and up, including adults and couples. I am also a Clinical Supervisor and can train new counselors helping them earn hours toward their licensure.
(360) 227-5914 View (360) 227-5914
Photo of Bobby Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98102, WA
Bobby Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
My therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic in nature, and based on the observation that people are often unaware of unconscious influences that determine their thoughts and actions.  Lack of awareness can often lead to behavior that constrains their ability to fully comprehend or work through the difficulties they are facing.  My hope is to help remove problematic symptoms that prohibit individuals from participating in meaningful relationships with themselves and others, while working toward leading a full and productive life as an active and positive contributor to their community.
My therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic in nature, and based on the observation that people are often unaware of unconscious influences that determine their thoughts and actions.  Lack of awareness can often lead to behavior that constrains their ability to fully comprehend or work through the difficulties they are facing.  My hope is to help remove problematic symptoms that prohibit individuals from participating in meaningful relationships with themselves and others, while working toward leading a full and productive life as an active and positive contributor to their community.
(206) 339-6835 View (206) 339-6835
Photo of Simone Heyward, Mental Health Counselor in 98102, WA
Simone Heyward
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I completed my graduate training in California in 2016 at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Irvine Campus and have been a licensed Mental Health Professional with experience in Integrated Behavioral Health Services, Sexual dysfunction, emergency crisis stabilization, case management and psychotherapy, individual, family/couple, and group therapy.
The ideal client is an individual ready to make active change. Change is subjective and can be both big and small therefore, we start where you are and not where others think you should be. This is a collaborative approach in which you receive support and guidance towards the growth that you would like to see. I am fully invested in my clients and take the time to apply factors that can also hinder and promote success. My artistic background also allows me to be open to thinking outside the box when needed. I encourage you to think and explore both challenges and probable solutions as you continue in your therapeutic experience
I completed my graduate training in California in 2016 at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Irvine Campus and have been a licensed Mental Health Professional with experience in Integrated Behavioral Health Services, Sexual dysfunction, emergency crisis stabilization, case management and psychotherapy, individual, family/couple, and group therapy.
The ideal client is an individual ready to make active change. Change is subjective and can be both big and small therefore, we start where you are and not where others think you should be. This is a collaborative approach in which you receive support and guidance towards the growth that you would like to see. I am fully invested in my clients and take the time to apply factors that can also hinder and promote success. My artistic background also allows me to be open to thinking outside the box when needed. I encourage you to think and explore both challenges and probable solutions as you continue in your therapeutic experience
(360) 284-1557 View (360) 284-1557
Photo of Tamara Marie Wright, Counselor in 98102, WA
Tamara Marie Wright
Counselor, MS, CMHC, LMHC, CPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I believe the most valuable service I can provide to my clients is creating a safe space where they feel comfortable to express themselves and be acknowledged. My aim is to foster an atmosphere of trust and unconditional positive regard. My primary objective in working with clients is to support and validate their feelings, helping them feel bolstered and recognized. Many clients seek my help to improve their quality of life, and I firmly believe that therapy can facilitate this. While it may require effort, a better state of well-being is definitely attainable!
I believe the most valuable service I can provide to my clients is creating a safe space where they feel comfortable to express themselves and be acknowledged. My aim is to foster an atmosphere of trust and unconditional positive regard. My primary objective in working with clients is to support and validate their feelings, helping them feel bolstered and recognized. Many clients seek my help to improve their quality of life, and I firmly believe that therapy can facilitate this. While it may require effort, a better state of well-being is definitely attainable!
(206) 309-5594 View (206) 309-5594
Photo of Renewal Therapeutic Services, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98102, WA
Renewal Therapeutic Services
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Matthew Mixon and I am presently a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Seattle Washington. My concentration when working with individuals, couples, and children, are based upon connection, collaboration and curiosity. I adhere to the position that as an Emotionally-Focused Therapist . I typically focus upon addressing emotions and interactions within therapeutic sessions, instead of concentrating on homework or worksheets for clients. Curiosity is important because it lets us get immersed in the process instead of caring so much about the result.
Hello, my name is Matthew Mixon and I am presently a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Seattle Washington. My concentration when working with individuals, couples, and children, are based upon connection, collaboration and curiosity. I adhere to the position that as an Emotionally-Focused Therapist . I typically focus upon addressing emotions and interactions within therapeutic sessions, instead of concentrating on homework or worksheets for clients. Curiosity is important because it lets us get immersed in the process instead of caring so much about the result.
(206) 678-1639 View (206) 678-1639
Photo of Andrea Battiola, Licensed Professional Counselor in 98102, WA
Andrea Battiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn for help. It is for exactly that reason that I was driven to be a sex therapist and open Peak Couples & Sex Therapy, a group psychotherapy practice. Our sexual selves matter. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values and needs.
Sex is an area of life that can both impact and be impacted by everything else in life. Yet we often feel so alone in our sexual lives with very few places and people to turn for help. It is for exactly that reason that I was driven to be a sex therapist and open Peak Couples & Sex Therapy, a group psychotherapy practice. Our sexual selves matter. Our sexual needs, wants, fears and struggles all matter. I want to create the space for others that my younger self deserved to have when she was growing up, trying to understand how sex and relationships impacted her confidence, identity, values and needs.
(202) 949-3779 View (202) 949-3779
Photo of Jeffrey Serage, Counselor in 98102, WA
Jeffrey Serage
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 31 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. Having worked with a large number of clients to the point of solution, I have concluded that in the end, the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of their current situation. I can then gently point them toward getting more of what they want. My experience and compassion have often proven to be crucial elements for our success. This is the work of my life.
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 31 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. Having worked with a large number of clients to the point of solution, I have concluded that in the end, the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of their current situation. I can then gently point them toward getting more of what they want. My experience and compassion have often proven to be crucial elements for our success. This is the work of my life.
(206) 707-9303 View (206) 707-9303
Photo of Casey C. Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
Casey C. Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MCC, CCHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Clients who feel at home in my practice are seekers, empaths, gifted & successful types ready & willing to create lasting radical change. You crave meaning, fulfillment, integrated awareness & true intimacy with Self. You consistently move towards regulation & safety in relational frameworks through Conscious connection. You value holistic & traditional psychologies. You embody your light & shadow aspects. You believe the science of change, organization & healing requires repair on ALL layers & multiple psycho-spiritual methodologies. Women, Men & Couples struggling, stuck or lost, internally or in relationship, are core clients.
Clients who feel at home in my practice are seekers, empaths, gifted & successful types ready & willing to create lasting radical change. You crave meaning, fulfillment, integrated awareness & true intimacy with Self. You consistently move towards regulation & safety in relational frameworks through Conscious connection. You value holistic & traditional psychologies. You embody your light & shadow aspects. You believe the science of change, organization & healing requires repair on ALL layers & multiple psycho-spiritual methodologies. Women, Men & Couples struggling, stuck or lost, internally or in relationship, are core clients.
(206) 922-4516 View (206) 922-4516
Photo of Lusa Hung, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Lusa Hung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
I practice exclusively with online clients residing in WA, CA & NY. I am out of network for all insurance panels. Psychology has always been a passion of mine in some shape or form. I have 14 yrs of clinical experience working with culturally diverse populations in international and domestic settings. My approach is mindfulness-based with a blend of CBT, person-centered therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have expertise treating a wide range of psychological issues spanning the spectrum of depression, trauma/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life adjustments, serving people across the lifespan and in different settings.
(415) 825-3514 View (415) 825-3514
Photo of Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
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Photo of Jennifer Domingo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98102, WA
Jennifer Domingo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I am licensed and see clients via telehealth in the following states: Alaska (204448), California (50961), Florida (MT3608), Hawaii (MFT-767), Nevada (4289-R), Oregon (T2080), Texas (204008), Virginia (0717002026), and Washington (LF60618432). I an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and open for Clinical Supervision.
I am licensed and see clients via telehealth in the following states: Alaska (204448), California (50961), Florida (MT3608), Hawaii (MFT-767), Nevada (4289-R), Oregon (T2080), Texas (204008), Virginia (0717002026), and Washington (LF60618432). I an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and open for Clinical Supervision.
(916) 884-5649 View (916) 884-5649
Photo of Kristine Nicole Guevara, Mental Health Counselor in 98102, WA
Kristine Nicole Guevara
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. Do you feel a heaviness in your day to day that makes it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling and isolating yourself even more from people and activities you used to enjoy? Are you needing help, but don't know where to start? You don't have to have all the answers. Let's co-create a space where we can work through today's unique struggles together and get you feeling lighter, balanced and more like yourself.
I am accepting new clients. Do you feel a heaviness in your day to day that makes it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling and isolating yourself even more from people and activities you used to enjoy? Are you needing help, but don't know where to start? You don't have to have all the answers. Let's co-create a space where we can work through today's unique struggles together and get you feeling lighter, balanced and more like yourself.
(253) 478-8594 View (253) 478-8594
Photo of Doug Sweaney Herrick, Counselor in 98102, WA
Doug Sweaney Herrick
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Do you find yourself repeatedly questioning who you are and what you are doing? Are you left wondering why you feel so bad when so much of your life looks so good on the surface? Or maybe you and your partner are finding yourselves being driven further and further apart by the same conflict. For the individuals and couples that I work with, therapy is a place to manage these feelings, better understand the patterns that lead to them and what they are telling us. With reflection the intensity of anger, sadness, anxiety or disappointment can fade and we can learn to move toward action in our lives and connection in our relationships.
Do you find yourself repeatedly questioning who you are and what you are doing? Are you left wondering why you feel so bad when so much of your life looks so good on the surface? Or maybe you and your partner are finding yourselves being driven further and further apart by the same conflict. For the individuals and couples that I work with, therapy is a place to manage these feelings, better understand the patterns that lead to them and what they are telling us. With reflection the intensity of anger, sadness, anxiety or disappointment can fade and we can learn to move toward action in our lives and connection in our relationships.
(206) 737-1462 View (206) 737-1462
Photo of Brandon Gibs, Counselor in 98102, WA
Brandon Gibs
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
We will explore your own “inner dialogue” and/or “parts,” as well as important narratives (aka the stories you tell yourself about yourself and the world around you). I encourage your evaluation, adaptation and/or complete overhaul of these sometimes unhelpful thoughts and stories in favor of newer, healthier, and more useful ones that we develop together!
We will explore your own “inner dialogue” and/or “parts,” as well as important narratives (aka the stories you tell yourself about yourself and the world around you). I encourage your evaluation, adaptation and/or complete overhaul of these sometimes unhelpful thoughts and stories in favor of newer, healthier, and more useful ones that we develop together!
(206) 752-5057 View (206) 752-5057
Photo of Dr. Sean Morrison, Psychologist in 98102, WA
Dr. Sean Morrison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
***I accept First Choice Health insurance, which frequently contracts with some Kaiser plans. Please call to confirm I am in-network with your plan.*** I approach therapy from an evidence-based perspective by letting you know what the research has shown to be the most effective way of handling whatever problems you’re struggling with. From there, we can work together to adapt that type of therapy to fit your specific needs & life circumstances so we can figure out how to make our sessions most helpful for you. I specialize in CBT, DBT, CPT/PE, Schema Therapy & Mindfulness-based therapies amongst other evidence-based psychotherapies.
***I accept First Choice Health insurance, which frequently contracts with some Kaiser plans. Please call to confirm I am in-network with your plan.*** I approach therapy from an evidence-based perspective by letting you know what the research has shown to be the most effective way of handling whatever problems you’re struggling with. From there, we can work together to adapt that type of therapy to fit your specific needs & life circumstances so we can figure out how to make our sessions most helpful for you. I specialize in CBT, DBT, CPT/PE, Schema Therapy & Mindfulness-based therapies amongst other evidence-based psychotherapies.
(253) 243-2258 View (253) 243-2258
Photo of Kez Mayers, Counselor in 98102, WA
Kez Mayers
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to feel arousal or pleasure during sex? Have you lost the sexual spark and excitement in your relationship? Do you struggle with desires, thoughts, and behaviors that you feel as though you can’t share with others for fear of shame, stigma, ignorance, or violence? Have you struggled to understand yourself as a sexual being due to stigmatizing beliefs and messages? Navigating the nuances of relationships, sex, sexual health, sexual identity, and gender identity can be difficult and exhausting on its own. Through open-minded, compassionate, and culturally competent care, I am committed to help you meet your goals.
Do you struggle to feel arousal or pleasure during sex? Have you lost the sexual spark and excitement in your relationship? Do you struggle with desires, thoughts, and behaviors that you feel as though you can’t share with others for fear of shame, stigma, ignorance, or violence? Have you struggled to understand yourself as a sexual being due to stigmatizing beliefs and messages? Navigating the nuances of relationships, sex, sexual health, sexual identity, and gender identity can be difficult and exhausting on its own. Through open-minded, compassionate, and culturally competent care, I am committed to help you meet your goals.
(509) 260-7218 View (509) 260-7218

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.