Behavioral Issues Therapists in Middlesex County, CT

Photo of Jennifer Charbonnier, PhD, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Jennifer Charbonnier, PhD, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Difficult times are an opportunity for change; change is hard and a real investment...in you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples trying to strengthen, salvage, or make a decision about a relationship. I offer family therapy with a specialty in child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues and parent coaching designed with you to realistically meet your family's needs. I also work with individuals seeking change, coping with transition, and seeking to come to terms with present/past trauma, on going struggles, and the hope for change. With hope, readiness to work, and the right therapist, it will happen!
Difficult times are an opportunity for change; change is hard and a real investment...in you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples trying to strengthen, salvage, or make a decision about a relationship. I offer family therapy with a specialty in child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues and parent coaching designed with you to realistically meet your family's needs. I also work with individuals seeking change, coping with transition, and seeking to come to terms with present/past trauma, on going struggles, and the hope for change. With hope, readiness to work, and the right therapist, it will happen!
(860) 931-7210 View (860) 931-7210
Photo of Maegan Glover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Maegan Glover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
I’m Maegan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in behavioral outbursts and emotion regulation challenges in children (6+). In addition to these specialties, I am also passionate about helping teens and young adults thrive and cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-harm, relationship issues, and more. When working with me, you can expect a nurturing and safe space where you’ll feel validated and understood. I identify as LGBTQ+ affirming and am personally and professionally committed to racial justice.
I’m Maegan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in behavioral outbursts and emotion regulation challenges in children (6+). In addition to these specialties, I am also passionate about helping teens and young adults thrive and cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-harm, relationship issues, and more. When working with me, you can expect a nurturing and safe space where you’ll feel validated and understood. I identify as LGBTQ+ affirming and am personally and professionally committed to racial justice.
(860) 579-1318 View (860) 579-1318
Photo of Parent Management Training Institute, Tracie Bush, Counselor in Middlesex County, CT
Parent Management Training Institute, Tracie Bush
Counselor, MA, CKPMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413  (Online Only)
For the past 20 years, my work has focused on helping children with anxiety and behavioral challenges. Like physicians, practicing what is scientifically proven to work is essential. Children deserve no less! So when working to help children with anxiety, ODD, DMDD, CD, and IED, I use Parent Management Training (PMT), Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT), and Problem-Solving Skills Training (PSST). For 7-years at Yale University and for the past 10 years through my clinic, I have trained hundreds of professionals and parents from around the world in these treatments via telehealth and in-person sessions.
For the past 20 years, my work has focused on helping children with anxiety and behavioral challenges. Like physicians, practicing what is scientifically proven to work is essential. Children deserve no less! So when working to help children with anxiety, ODD, DMDD, CD, and IED, I use Parent Management Training (PMT), Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT), and Problem-Solving Skills Training (PSST). For 7-years at Yale University and for the past 10 years through my clinic, I have trained hundreds of professionals and parents from around the world in these treatments via telehealth and in-person sessions.
(203) 816-6461 View (203) 816-6461
Photo of Karin Griffin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Middlesex County, CT
Karin Griffin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Hampton, CT 06424
I can support individuals with relational therapy, behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, parent coaching, trauma informed care, or grief/loss therapy.
Please note: I am currently only able to take clients with availability M-TH starting at 9:00 am and as late as 3:00 pm. Hi I am Karin, a Licensed Master Social Worker and I believe in a holistic strengths-based approach to help children, adolescents and adults navigate their unique journeys with both sensitivity and compassion. With over 25 years of experience, I have worked with youth and adults in various settings including residential, private special education and public-school environments.
I can support individuals with relational therapy, behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, parent coaching, trauma informed care, or grief/loss therapy.
Please note: I am currently only able to take clients with availability M-TH starting at 9:00 am and as late as 3:00 pm. Hi I am Karin, a Licensed Master Social Worker and I believe in a holistic strengths-based approach to help children, adolescents and adults navigate their unique journeys with both sensitivity and compassion. With over 25 years of experience, I have worked with youth and adults in various settings including residential, private special education and public-school environments.
(860) 891-2698 View (860) 891-2698
Photo of Angela Swirski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Angela Swirski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Killingworth, CT 06419  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut. I enjoy working with adults, teens, adolescents, and children who need assistance navigating depression and anxiety. Whether you are an adult seeking EMDR to treat trauma, a parent needing coping skills to support your child with behavioral and emotional needs, or a college student facing challenging life transitions, I'm here to guide and assist you.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut. I enjoy working with adults, teens, adolescents, and children who need assistance navigating depression and anxiety. Whether you are an adult seeking EMDR to treat trauma, a parent needing coping skills to support your child with behavioral and emotional needs, or a college student facing challenging life transitions, I'm here to guide and assist you.
(475) 405-3637 View (475) 405-3637
Photo of Christine Marie Riley-Barrera, Professional Counselor Associate in Middlesex County, CT
Christine Marie Riley-Barrera
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Connecticut with 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, college-age students and young adults. My goal of my therapy sessions, is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate personal change. I use a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused brief therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Connecticut with 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, college-age students and young adults. My goal of my therapy sessions, is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate personal change. I use a diverse range of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused brief therapy.
(860) 406-5603 View (860) 406-5603
Photo of Ali Gasparini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Ali Gasparini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I provide assessment & treatment of children, adolescents & families, specifically with children & teens experiencing emotional & behavioral problems. My background includes working with traumatized youth in a variety of settings such as Outpatient, Victims Advocacy, community settings, residential settings & school settings.
I provide assessment & treatment of children, adolescents & families, specifically with children & teens experiencing emotional & behavioral problems. My background includes working with traumatized youth in a variety of settings such as Outpatient, Victims Advocacy, community settings, residential settings & school settings.
(860) 854-1641 View (860) 854-1641
Photo of Fanny Aguilar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Fanny Aguilar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a bilingual (Spanish-English) profesional with 20 years plus of experience in the mental health and addictions field. I am dedicated to working with individuals and couples to help them to develop skills to change negative behavior, allowing them to live a healthy and productive life. All that we have experienced in our lives can make us grow or feel stuck, leading us to live a happy or depressed life. I help the client to understand and gain insight into their situation, to have hope and to gain skills to be able to manage their problems without feeling overwhelmed or in despair.
I am a bilingual (Spanish-English) profesional with 20 years plus of experience in the mental health and addictions field. I am dedicated to working with individuals and couples to help them to develop skills to change negative behavior, allowing them to live a healthy and productive life. All that we have experienced in our lives can make us grow or feel stuck, leading us to live a happy or depressed life. I help the client to understand and gain insight into their situation, to have hope and to gain skills to be able to manage their problems without feeling overwhelmed or in despair.
(860) 661-1196 View (860) 661-1196
Photo of Suzanne Sutch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, CT
Suzanne Sutch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Issues that I often see in my practice are clients suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders, relational problems, family issues, school problems/phobias, behavioral issues unique to children with ADD/ ADHD.
**CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS** Welcome, I want to thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey. Finding the right therapist is imperative to treatment and I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one. With that, I strive to create strong connections with my clients in a safe, open and judgment free environment. I have been working in the counseling field since 2005 after earning my Bachelors Degree in Human Services and earning my Masters Degree from Saint Joseph College in Community Counseling.
Issues that I often see in my practice are clients suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders, relational problems, family issues, school problems/phobias, behavioral issues unique to children with ADD/ ADHD.
**CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS** Welcome, I want to thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey. Finding the right therapist is imperative to treatment and I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one. With that, I strive to create strong connections with my clients in a safe, open and judgment free environment. I have been working in the counseling field since 2005 after earning my Bachelors Degree in Human Services and earning my Masters Degree from Saint Joseph College in Community Counseling.
(860) 398-5903 View (860) 398-5903
Photo of Janice Katilius, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Janice Katilius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 30 years and have experience with working with primarily adolescents and their families as well as adults with behavioral health and substance abuse issues.
Are you looking for an experienced Clinical Social Worker ? If so, please reach out to see how I can assist you in reaching your goal in treatment. I have worked with many individuals who have experienced much pain in their lives due to anxiety, depression, psychosis, and trauma and have been amazed at the individual's resilience. My part in the journey with the individual is offering the hope that things will change . I offer a non-judgemental space in which to listen and encourage individuals to feel good about themselves in order to make treatment happen for themselves. I am a strength based therapist .
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 30 years and have experience with working with primarily adolescents and their families as well as adults with behavioral health and substance abuse issues.
Are you looking for an experienced Clinical Social Worker ? If so, please reach out to see how I can assist you in reaching your goal in treatment. I have worked with many individuals who have experienced much pain in their lives due to anxiety, depression, psychosis, and trauma and have been amazed at the individual's resilience. My part in the journey with the individual is offering the hope that things will change . I offer a non-judgemental space in which to listen and encourage individuals to feel good about themselves in order to make treatment happen for themselves. I am a strength based therapist .
(860) 962-6088 View (860) 962-6088
Photo of Rebecca Cote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Rebecca Cote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cromwell, CT 06416  (Online Only)
Together, we will use therapy approaches that are proven to work! I provide both Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) informed treatment.
I am accepting new clients and provide therapy online. I earned my master's degree in social work at Southern Connecticut State University. Do you feel emotions that are intense or long-lasting? Maybe you have challenges identifying emotions, or you may not feel any at all. We will work together to enhance your life by finding a balance between your emotions and behaviors. I have significant experience working with those that are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, and thoughts of suicide. My experience includes developing skills to manage challenging situations, family conflict, and parenting issues.
Together, we will use therapy approaches that are proven to work! I provide both Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) informed treatment.
I am accepting new clients and provide therapy online. I earned my master's degree in social work at Southern Connecticut State University. Do you feel emotions that are intense or long-lasting? Maybe you have challenges identifying emotions, or you may not feel any at all. We will work together to enhance your life by finding a balance between your emotions and behaviors. I have significant experience working with those that are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, and thoughts of suicide. My experience includes developing skills to manage challenging situations, family conflict, and parenting issues.
(203) 712-0904 View (203) 712-0904
Photo of Sara B. Snyder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Sara B. Snyder, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a social worker with over 20 years experience in clinical practice with an office in Essex, CT. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, insight oriented psychodynamic and psycho-educational techniques to help you understand yourself better and resolve issues and reach goals most important to you.
I am a social worker with over 20 years experience in clinical practice with an office in Essex, CT. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, insight oriented psychodynamic and psycho-educational techniques to help you understand yourself better and resolve issues and reach goals most important to you.
(203) 916-5494 View (203) 916-5494
Photo of Patrick Russolillo, Psychologist in Middlesex County, CT
Patrick Russolillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
I am a licensed psychologist. I have been practicing psychology for 40 years and have been in private practice for 30 years. The vast majority of my training during the course of my career has been in the area of behavioral assessment, behavioral interventions and cognitive-behavioral techniques. I take a directive and problem solving approach to counseling. I offer the following services: cognitive and behavior therapy for children, adolescents and adults, psychological evaluations, evaluation of autism, interventions and treatment for anxiety, and depression. Behavioral intervention for sleep and insomnia.
I am a licensed psychologist. I have been practicing psychology for 40 years and have been in private practice for 30 years. The vast majority of my training during the course of my career has been in the area of behavioral assessment, behavioral interventions and cognitive-behavioral techniques. I take a directive and problem solving approach to counseling. I offer the following services: cognitive and behavior therapy for children, adolescents and adults, psychological evaluations, evaluation of autism, interventions and treatment for anxiety, and depression. Behavioral intervention for sleep and insomnia.
(860) 552-6383 View (860) 552-6383
Photo of Shazia Kareem, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, CT
Shazia Kareem
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Middlefield, CT 06455  (Online Only)
Integrated Individual and Family Therapy (IIFT) LLC, is a practice that motivates, guides and facilitates the changes you desire. We empower you to make changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. If your goal is to address certain behavioral, substance-related, emotional or relational concerns then we are here to assist you realize your full potential. IIFT caters to all developmental and cultural backgrounds using a combination of effective holistic and well-established clinical methods.
Integrated Individual and Family Therapy (IIFT) LLC, is a practice that motivates, guides and facilitates the changes you desire. We empower you to make changes that are meaningful and long-lasting. If your goal is to address certain behavioral, substance-related, emotional or relational concerns then we are here to assist you realize your full potential. IIFT caters to all developmental and cultural backgrounds using a combination of effective holistic and well-established clinical methods.
(860) 345-5920 View (860) 345-5920
Photo of New England Wellness Center LLC, Psychologist in Middlesex County, CT
New England Wellness Center LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
We provide individual, family, and group psychotherapy, brief solution—focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and parenting support.
Accepting NEW Clients. The New England Wellness (NEW) Center specializes in child, adolescent and young adult psychiatry as well as parenting support. We provide psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations & consults (which provide diagnostic clarification for treatment or referral purposes), neuropsychological testing, psycho-education, collaboration with schools and physicians, and group therapy. We specifically enjoy treating children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5-28 years, however we also work with parents to develop new parenting techniques.
We provide individual, family, and group psychotherapy, brief solution—focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and parenting support.
Accepting NEW Clients. The New England Wellness (NEW) Center specializes in child, adolescent and young adult psychiatry as well as parenting support. We provide psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations & consults (which provide diagnostic clarification for treatment or referral purposes), neuropsychological testing, psycho-education, collaboration with schools and physicians, and group therapy. We specifically enjoy treating children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5-28 years, however we also work with parents to develop new parenting techniques.
(860) 813-2629 View (860) 813-2629
Photo of Wellness Within, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Wellness Within, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457  (Online Only)
Are you ready to explore the functions of your behavior and discover healthy ways to effect change? Our approach when working together will be to not only identify and process adverse experiences but to explore how they impact your dreams. My approach with clients is always from a strengths perspective as I believe that people are inherently resilient and already have a variety of tools in their personal toolbox. A strong therapeutic alliance is critical to the development of skills to facilitate change. I consider it a tremendous privilege to work with clients and help be an agent of change as you navigate all of life's challenges.
Are you ready to explore the functions of your behavior and discover healthy ways to effect change? Our approach when working together will be to not only identify and process adverse experiences but to explore how they impact your dreams. My approach with clients is always from a strengths perspective as I believe that people are inherently resilient and already have a variety of tools in their personal toolbox. A strong therapeutic alliance is critical to the development of skills to facilitate change. I consider it a tremendous privilege to work with clients and help be an agent of change as you navigate all of life's challenges.
(860) 512-7181 View (860) 512-7181
Photo of Fabiana Silva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Fabiana Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, CT 06457
In my practice, I use evidence-based practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Parts Work.
With nearly a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I am Fabiana Silva, a passionate and dedicated professional specializing in healing trauma. My extensive expertise spans across various therapeutic modalities, enabling me to provide comprehensive and personalized care to my clients. As a multilingual therapist fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, I am the founder of Sunrise Mental Health Services, dedicated to offering compassionate and culturally sensitive mental health support.
In my practice, I use evidence-based practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Parts Work.
With nearly a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I am Fabiana Silva, a passionate and dedicated professional specializing in healing trauma. My extensive expertise spans across various therapeutic modalities, enabling me to provide comprehensive and personalized care to my clients. As a multilingual therapist fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, I am the founder of Sunrise Mental Health Services, dedicated to offering compassionate and culturally sensitive mental health support.
(860) 846-3728 View (860) 846-3728
Photo of Carly Gottehrer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, CT
Carly Gottehrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Middletown, CT 06457
Carly Gottehrer is an LPC with over 16 years of experience in the field of behavioral health.
Currently Accepting New Clients. The reality of pregnancy and childbirth doesn't always match up to the expectations. Please know you're not alone. Family transitions can contribute to changes in family dynamics and feel overwhelming - no matter your role within the family. It's not always easy to reach out for support, but a phone call is the first step toward getting back on track. I specialize in peripartum mental health.
Carly Gottehrer is an LPC with over 16 years of experience in the field of behavioral health.
Currently Accepting New Clients. The reality of pregnancy and childbirth doesn't always match up to the expectations. Please know you're not alone. Family transitions can contribute to changes in family dynamics and feel overwhelming - no matter your role within the family. It's not always easy to reach out for support, but a phone call is the first step toward getting back on track. I specialize in peripartum mental health.
(860) 406-7519 x2 View (860) 406-7519 x2
Photo of Carleigh Hannah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, CT
Carleigh Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am a seasoned therapist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) with a trauma and solution focused, goal oriented approach.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
I am a seasoned therapist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) with a trauma and solution focused, goal oriented approach.
I’m Carleigh Hannah, LCSW and I’m here to help. My goal is to provide a safe place to explore current life challenges. I am here to root you on when things are going well, encourage you to look deeper into underlining meanings, support you through difficult life decisions and transitions. I treat ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Autism, Bipolar disorders, Depression, Personality disorders, Schizophrenia, PTSD. I am an ally to our LGBTQ+ community and have experience with educating and advocating for LGBTQ+ misconceptions.
(860) 362-2409 View (860) 362-2409
Photo of Keith Murphey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, CT
Keith Murphey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413
I offer unique Group therapy, Art therapy services and TFCBT Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am an LPC with over 24 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who experience a variety of symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment difficulties. I provide a relaxing and judgement free environment allowing my clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I use an integrative approach with an emphasis on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. It is an evidence based model proven highly effective for treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, intense feelings, and mood changes.
I offer unique Group therapy, Art therapy services and TFCBT Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am an LPC with over 24 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who experience a variety of symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment difficulties. I provide a relaxing and judgement free environment allowing my clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I use an integrative approach with an emphasis on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. It is an evidence based model proven highly effective for treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, intense feelings, and mood changes.
(860) 786-4032 View (860) 786-4032

See more therapy options for Middlesex County

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.