Photo of Massimo Scano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
My approach to psychotherapy is primarily informed by psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapies.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
My approach to psychotherapy is primarily informed by psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapies.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Diana Gorbunova, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Diana Gorbunova
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
(202) 860-1323 View (202) 860-1323
Photo of Katalin Vladar in Washington, DC
Katalin Vladar
MD, CGP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Cognitive-behavioral concepts would be usedif they are helpful.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
Cognitive-behavioral concepts would be usedif they are helpful.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
(202) 949-3037 View (202) 949-3037
Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Mali Jimenez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Mali Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I help clients to become more aware of their behavioral and thought patterns by incorporating mindfulness into sessions.
My ideal client is someone who is self-motivated to work through their hindrances with kindness, compassion and commitment. I work alongside clients to develop their awareness of behavioral patterns and use mindfulness-based CBT techniques to redirect repetitive and compulsive thought patterns. I particularly enjoy working with clients heal and recover from narcissistic abuse, which is rampant in our day and age.
I help clients to become more aware of their behavioral and thought patterns by incorporating mindfulness into sessions.
My ideal client is someone who is self-motivated to work through their hindrances with kindness, compassion and commitment. I work alongside clients to develop their awareness of behavioral patterns and use mindfulness-based CBT techniques to redirect repetitive and compulsive thought patterns. I particularly enjoy working with clients heal and recover from narcissistic abuse, which is rampant in our day and age.
(202) 849-9984 View (202) 849-9984
Photo of Dodini Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dodini Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Dodini Behavioral Health is a multidisciplinary private group practice for personal growth, healing, and development currently open to virtual and in person. We help individuals, couples, and families get beyond symptoms and into living the fullest version of their life and self. Our clinical providers are among the top in their fields and have a variety of areas of interest and expertise, and all are devoted to exceptionally good psychotherapy, therapeutic alliance, and continual education. We often work as a team and as co-therapists to give the absolute best in personalized and expert care for you and those you love.
Dodini Behavioral Health is a multidisciplinary private group practice for personal growth, healing, and development currently open to virtual and in person. We help individuals, couples, and families get beyond symptoms and into living the fullest version of their life and self. Our clinical providers are among the top in their fields and have a variety of areas of interest and expertise, and all are devoted to exceptionally good psychotherapy, therapeutic alliance, and continual education. We often work as a team and as co-therapists to give the absolute best in personalized and expert care for you and those you love.
(703) 844-9909 View (703) 844-9909
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Washington, DC
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya applies the following types of therapy:  Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy (MBSR) .
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya applies the following types of therapy:  Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy (MBSR) .
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Ed Geraty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ed Geraty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20201  (Online Only)
Please note I only provide tele-therapy services in Maryland, DC, Virginia & W. Virginia. It is my belief and practice that we are more than our limited thinking minds. If you have tried other traditional therapies and find them lacking, you may find my Transpersonal , Jungian, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral approach to be of benefit. The transpersonal is defined as "experiences in which the sense of identity, or self, extends beyond the individual or personal to encompass greater meaning. This can include exploring non ordinary states of consciousness.
Please note I only provide tele-therapy services in Maryland, DC, Virginia & W. Virginia. It is my belief and practice that we are more than our limited thinking minds. If you have tried other traditional therapies and find them lacking, you may find my Transpersonal , Jungian, and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral approach to be of benefit. The transpersonal is defined as "experiences in which the sense of identity, or self, extends beyond the individual or personal to encompass greater meaning. This can include exploring non ordinary states of consciousness.
(410) 504-1551 View (410) 504-1551
Photo of Kris O'Shee, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Kris O'Shee, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
(202) 213-5505 View (202) 213-5505
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Carlos Durana Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(202) 849-7840 View (202) 849-7840
Photo of Ron Del Moro, Counselor in Washington, DC
Ron Del Moro
Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
My objectives in therapy are safety and growth. We will work together to discover what is needed to create the life and relationships you want. Together, we discuss what is needed for you to thrive (and what gets in the way). I am honest and direct in my work. I am a highly empathetic, interactive, personal, and dynamic therapist who can equally support and challenge when needed. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families with relationship issues, connections (with self and others), anxiety, depression, life transitions, anger, communication, impostor syndrome, and mindfulness.
(202) 729-9286 View (202) 729-9286
Photo of Legacy Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Legacy Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LGPC, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Legacy Therapy, LLC. is a Minority Woman & Black/POC owned Holistic Psychotherapy and Coaching practice in Washington D.C. Legacy Therapy is a holistic approach to mental wellness that combines psychotherapy with holistic services (such as mindfulness, somatic experiencing and yoga) to enhance wellness and fulfillment in all areas of life functioning.
Legacy Therapy, LLC. is a Minority Woman & Black/POC owned Holistic Psychotherapy and Coaching practice in Washington D.C. Legacy Therapy is a holistic approach to mental wellness that combines psychotherapy with holistic services (such as mindfulness, somatic experiencing and yoga) to enhance wellness and fulfillment in all areas of life functioning.
(202) 978-4457 View (202) 978-4457
Photo of Dorita M. Dixon in Washington, DC
Dorita M. Dixon
MA, MSS, CHT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I am a hypnotherapist working with individuals, couples, and families in the Washington DC metropolitan area. I will teach you how to creatively relax the body so that you will become a more effective person in every endeavor of your life. You will learn how to reinforce your good intentions for a successful life, thereby improving all of your relationships. Each session is approached from the individual's unique set of circumstances.
I am a hypnotherapist working with individuals, couples, and families in the Washington DC metropolitan area. I will teach you how to creatively relax the body so that you will become a more effective person in every endeavor of your life. You will learn how to reinforce your good intentions for a successful life, thereby improving all of your relationships. Each session is approached from the individual's unique set of circumstances.
(202) 656-7981 View (202) 656-7981
Photo of Jim Weinstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Jim Weinstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
If you are stuck in your career or are wondering whether it's time for a change, I know I can help. I bring to my clients the wisdom from the successes I've had as a Harvard MBA, as an advertising executive with one of America's top advertising agencies, as president of an innovative not-for profit, and as a successful entrepreneur. I also have a strong clinical background of 17 years in private practice as a licensed psychotherapist. This variety and breadth gives me a unique ability to view problems from multiple perspectives, creating strategically sound, actionable solutions.
If you are stuck in your career or are wondering whether it's time for a change, I know I can help. I bring to my clients the wisdom from the successes I've had as a Harvard MBA, as an advertising executive with one of America's top advertising agencies, as president of an innovative not-for profit, and as a successful entrepreneur. I also have a strong clinical background of 17 years in private practice as a licensed psychotherapist. This variety and breadth gives me a unique ability to view problems from multiple perspectives, creating strategically sound, actionable solutions.
(202) 559-4216 View (202) 559-4216
Photo of Nancie E. Henley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nancie E. Henley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
(202) 519-8471 View (202) 519-8471
Photo of Elissa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Dawn Traut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dawn Traut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Having a safe, nonjudgmental space, to be yourself, and to reflect, discuss, and learn about your reactions, decisions, and challenges can lead to improved well-being. My psychotherapy practice creates that space in a hopeful, compassionate atmosphere. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Between your counseling sessions, you are encouraged to reflect and put new skills and insights into practice. I can weave traditional psychotherapy with mindfulness practices to relieve symptoms, promote self-care, make intentional decisions, and grow. Please email me and I'll be able to answer more quickly.
Having a safe, nonjudgmental space, to be yourself, and to reflect, discuss, and learn about your reactions, decisions, and challenges can lead to improved well-being. My psychotherapy practice creates that space in a hopeful, compassionate atmosphere. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process. Between your counseling sessions, you are encouraged to reflect and put new skills and insights into practice. I can weave traditional psychotherapy with mindfulness practices to relieve symptoms, promote self-care, make intentional decisions, and grow. Please email me and I'll be able to answer more quickly.
(802) 499-2929 View (802) 499-2929
Photo of Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
(410) 376-8209 View (410) 376-8209
Photo of Greylyn Owens, Counselor in Washington, DC
Greylyn Owens
Counselor, ART-P, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
I will create a space for humans, in all walks of life to explore their inner world all while not being alone. Using art exploration and materials and processes to amplify and evoke insight.
I will create a space for humans, in all walks of life to explore their inner world all while not being alone. Using art exploration and materials and processes to amplify and evoke insight.
(919) 429-8905 View (919) 429-8905
Photo of Martina E. Efodzi, Counselor in Washington, DC
Martina E. Efodzi
Counselor, MDiv, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, then perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two, might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn how to take charge of your thoughts, emotions and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include: trauma, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spirituality and grief and loss.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, then perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two, might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn how to take charge of your thoughts, emotions and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include: trauma, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spirituality and grief and loss.
(202) 759-2328 View (202) 759-2328
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.