Photo of Matt Johnson, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Matt Johnson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Moline, IL 61266
I have worked with children and adolescents in the quad cities area for over 8 years. Throughout most of that time, I have helped families with conflict resolution, a decrease in negative behavior (truancy, substance use, running away, etc.) and have seen great results. I am actively working on my play therapy (RPT) license under supervision. With a very small number of male play therapists in this area, I believe I can help fill a large void by helping children who have been impacted negatively by trauma or other setbacks. I meet clients where they are at, no matter their age. Adults and children alike just want to be heard.
I have worked with children and adolescents in the quad cities area for over 8 years. Throughout most of that time, I have helped families with conflict resolution, a decrease in negative behavior (truancy, substance use, running away, etc.) and have seen great results. I am actively working on my play therapy (RPT) license under supervision. With a very small number of male play therapists in this area, I believe I can help fill a large void by helping children who have been impacted negatively by trauma or other setbacks. I meet clients where they are at, no matter their age. Adults and children alike just want to be heard.
(563) 921-6033 View (563) 921-6033
Photo of Simone Collins, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Simone Collins
Counselor, MS Ed, tLMHC, LPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rock Island, IL 61201
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am so glad you are here. If you are reading this, that means you have made a huge step in seeking out someone to talk to, whether it is for yourself, your child, or a friend or family member. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, it is my job, and my purpose, to listen to your story and assist you with developing the skills required to create and live the life you desire and deserve. I want to help celebrate your successes, help you realize the strengths you already possess, provide a safe space for you to process life’s challenges, and empower you to be the best version of yourself.
Hello! I am so glad you are here. If you are reading this, that means you have made a huge step in seeking out someone to talk to, whether it is for yourself, your child, or a friend or family member. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, it is my job, and my purpose, to listen to your story and assist you with developing the skills required to create and live the life you desire and deserve. I want to help celebrate your successes, help you realize the strengths you already possess, provide a safe space for you to process life’s challenges, and empower you to be the best version of yourself.
(563) 223-8437 View (563) 223-8437
Photo of Shannon R Gier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rock Island County, IL
Shannon R Gier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Moline, IL 61265
My purpose and passion as a therapist exists in helping my clients face their issues head-on and reassuring them that they're not alone in their fight. I strive to build strong and trusting relationships with my clients because I firmly believe that a collaborative relationship between client and therapist is most effective. It’s important to me to show up for my clients and to be present for them because they have taken that tough first step towards finding healing, and to me, it is an honor to come alongside them on their journey.
My purpose and passion as a therapist exists in helping my clients face their issues head-on and reassuring them that they're not alone in their fight. I strive to build strong and trusting relationships with my clients because I firmly believe that a collaborative relationship between client and therapist is most effective. It’s important to me to show up for my clients and to be present for them because they have taken that tough first step towards finding healing, and to me, it is an honor to come alongside them on their journey.
(312) 728-8298 View (312) 728-8298

Online Therapists

Photo of Shawn Tessmer, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Shawn Tessmer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sandwich, IL 60548
I base my approach on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while borrowing heavily from of Family Systems Therapy and Existential Therapy.
Taking NEW clients. “Our lives can become messy things. When this happens many of us invest the majority of our energy into holding our exterior lives together, while throwing the scraps to our internal life. I practice from the belief that when we are lost in the emotional weeds it is faster and less painful to have a guide who knows the weeds counsel us back to emotional stability than it is to wander in the hopes of stumbling onto a healthier path. I strive to provide counseling with warmth, peace, joy, hope, and love with God's grace by accepting who you are where you are while being mindful of your hopes and goals.”
I base my approach on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while borrowing heavily from of Family Systems Therapy and Existential Therapy.
Taking NEW clients. “Our lives can become messy things. When this happens many of us invest the majority of our energy into holding our exterior lives together, while throwing the scraps to our internal life. I practice from the belief that when we are lost in the emotional weeds it is faster and less painful to have a guide who knows the weeds counsel us back to emotional stability than it is to wander in the hopes of stumbling onto a healthier path. I strive to provide counseling with warmth, peace, joy, hope, and love with God's grace by accepting who you are where you are while being mindful of your hopes and goals.”
(630) 381-5689 View (630) 381-5689
Photo of Sean Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Sean Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based practices.
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based practices.
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
(815) 623-0887 View (815) 623-0887
Photo of Andrea Desatnick, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Andrea Desatnick
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
No one is meant to go through this life alone, although it may feel this way. If you have been struggling lately with situations, events, or mental health symptoms, you are in the right place. You’ve taken the first step in looking for a counselor, and many times that can be the hardest step. My passion is supporting my clients through person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and empowering my clients with the necessary tools they need to succeed. I incorporate client interests, such as reading, music, sports, art, and writing, into our sessions to best support clients as they are working through the therapeutic process.
No one is meant to go through this life alone, although it may feel this way. If you have been struggling lately with situations, events, or mental health symptoms, you are in the right place. You’ve taken the first step in looking for a counselor, and many times that can be the hardest step. My passion is supporting my clients through person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and empowering my clients with the necessary tools they need to succeed. I incorporate client interests, such as reading, music, sports, art, and writing, into our sessions to best support clients as they are working through the therapeutic process.
(309) 271-0153 View (309) 271-0153
Photo of Transformations Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
parenting a difficult teen, or couples recovering from sexual addiction), addictions (chemical and behavioral, e.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
parenting a difficult teen, or couples recovering from sexual addiction), addictions (chemical and behavioral, e.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
(815) 324-3979 View (815) 324-3979
Photo of Paulette M Selmi, Psychologist in Rock Island County, IL
Paulette M Selmi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sterling, IL 61081
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
(815) 213-7669 View (815) 213-7669
Photo of Dr. J. Scott Nelson, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Dr. J. Scott Nelson
Counselor, EdD, CCMHC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth, and really good at what I do. I people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I'm here when you need someone to turn to for individual, family, or couples counseling. My areas of expertise include Emotional Struggles, Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Family, Improving Relationships and Communication, Life Transitions, Family of origin issues, Crisis/Trauma, Addictions, Co-dependency, Decision Making, and more.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth, and really good at what I do. I people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I'm here when you need someone to turn to for individual, family, or couples counseling. My areas of expertise include Emotional Struggles, Anxiety & Depression, Couples & Family, Improving Relationships and Communication, Life Transitions, Family of origin issues, Crisis/Trauma, Addictions, Co-dependency, Decision Making, and more.
(815) 916-9970 View (815) 916-9970
Photo of Brianna Romanowicz, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Brianna Romanowicz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Bellevue, IL 61604
My background is working with children and adolescents, as well as some work with adult women. I have worked with clients with a variety of mental health needs. I particularly enjoy helping children with emotional and behavioral regulation, helping teenagers gain insight about the kind of person they want to be and helping adult women manage the stressors of everyday life.
My background is working with children and adolescents, as well as some work with adult women. I have worked with clients with a variety of mental health needs. I particularly enjoy helping children with emotional and behavioral regulation, helping teenagers gain insight about the kind of person they want to be and helping adult women manage the stressors of everyday life.
(309) 761-5515 View (309) 761-5515
Photo of Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
(815) 683-6561 View (815) 683-6561
Photo of Maga Passos-Hoke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rock Island County, IL
Maga Passos-Hoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sycamore, IL 60178
Through a family perspective, using the power of play, emotions, and at the moment experiences, I help kids from 0-18, families, and couples to address conflict, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, abuse, anger, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, and major life changes.
I help parents, children, families, and couples who are frustrated, angry, and hurting to heal and connect in a healthy way, rebuilding their relationships to bring harmony to themselves and their families.
Through a family perspective, using the power of play, emotions, and at the moment experiences, I help kids from 0-18, families, and couples to address conflict, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, abuse, anger, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, and major life changes.
I help parents, children, families, and couples who are frustrated, angry, and hurting to heal and connect in a healthy way, rebuilding their relationships to bring harmony to themselves and their families.
(630) 949-3739 View (630) 949-3739
Photo of Leon B Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rock Island County, IL
Leon B Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCBT
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression/PTSD/Anger Management/ Anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with an extensive work history over 30 years within the Rockford Area/surrounding community; providing Counseling, Therapy, Case Management, Problem Solving/Solution Focused Treatments. I have provided Clinical Social Work Services in a number of settings; local Community Mental Health Center, Hospitals, School Districts, Winnebago County Jail, Department of Veterans Affairs, Employee Assistance Programs and Group Practice. I have special interest in Student Athletes with Depression/Anxiety, Veterans with PTSD/negative military experiences, African Americans and Mental Health.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression/PTSD/Anger Management/ Anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with an extensive work history over 30 years within the Rockford Area/surrounding community; providing Counseling, Therapy, Case Management, Problem Solving/Solution Focused Treatments. I have provided Clinical Social Work Services in a number of settings; local Community Mental Health Center, Hospitals, School Districts, Winnebago County Jail, Department of Veterans Affairs, Employee Assistance Programs and Group Practice. I have special interest in Student Athletes with Depression/Anxiety, Veterans with PTSD/negative military experiences, African Americans and Mental Health.
(815) 324-1356 View (815) 324-1356
Photo of Lisa Schwab, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Lisa Schwab
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CTC, DCC, EAS-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
It has been my honor to serve Central Illinois for over 15 years with a broad experience in working with patients through mental health concerns, relationship issues, infidelity and marriage issues, brokenness and low self-worth, behavioral issues, addiction recovery, and gay, lesbian and transgender issues, and much more.
Life can be hard, painful, confusing, scary, and challenging. Events happen that leave us reeling with brokenness, grief, disbelief, guilt, fear, insecurity, and shame. We don't know what to do or which way to turn or how we got here in the first place. We may hold onto false beliefs about our self-worth, negative thoughts that tear us apart, relationships that are toxic, and behaviors that are destructive. All in an attempt to somehow alleviate how we are feeling. I am here to partner with you in working towards wholeness and healing and to empower you to move forward, happily and confidently.
It has been my honor to serve Central Illinois for over 15 years with a broad experience in working with patients through mental health concerns, relationship issues, infidelity and marriage issues, brokenness and low self-worth, behavioral issues, addiction recovery, and gay, lesbian and transgender issues, and much more.
Life can be hard, painful, confusing, scary, and challenging. Events happen that leave us reeling with brokenness, grief, disbelief, guilt, fear, insecurity, and shame. We don't know what to do or which way to turn or how we got here in the first place. We may hold onto false beliefs about our self-worth, negative thoughts that tear us apart, relationships that are toxic, and behaviors that are destructive. All in an attempt to somehow alleviate how we are feeling. I am here to partner with you in working towards wholeness and healing and to empower you to move forward, happily and confidently.
(309) 228-4676 View (309) 228-4676
Photo of Sandi Kellerstrass, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Sandi Kellerstrass
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morton, IL 61550
These include parent/child and couples relational problems, grief, trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems.
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
These include parent/child and couples relational problems, grief, trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems.
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
(309) 312-9010 View (309) 312-9010
Photo of Partners For Inner Healing, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Partners For Inner Healing
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCJTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
For the past 41 years I have provided children, adolescents, couples and families with support in the school, community, and private practice setting. I specialize in providing services, support, and advocacy for those with special needs and behavior issues. My experience as a special education teacher and school counselor has been an asset in my work with diverse populations and various needs at my private practice. I am a Certified LifeMap Coach and provide services to adults with Autism Spectrum profiles..
For the past 41 years I have provided children, adolescents, couples and families with support in the school, community, and private practice setting. I specialize in providing services, support, and advocacy for those with special needs and behavior issues. My experience as a special education teacher and school counselor has been an asset in my work with diverse populations and various needs at my private practice. I am a Certified LifeMap Coach and provide services to adults with Autism Spectrum profiles..
(815) 828-6297 View (815) 828-6297
Photo of Shannon C Dean, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
Shannon C Dean
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dixon, IL 61021
Waitlist for new clients
I've provided a wide variety of behavioral health services over the past 20+ years in a variety of community settings. During that time, I've had the opportunity to help families, individuals, and couples on their journey to be their healthiest version of themselves. It is my belief that we all strive to be as healthy as we can. However, sometimes we need support, new skills, and a dedicated time to reflect on the changes we will make. I am honored to have clients share their journey with me and to be given the opportunity to help clients attain personal growth. I am devoted to helping clients achieve their goals.
I've provided a wide variety of behavioral health services over the past 20+ years in a variety of community settings. During that time, I've had the opportunity to help families, individuals, and couples on their journey to be their healthiest version of themselves. It is my belief that we all strive to be as healthy as we can. However, sometimes we need support, new skills, and a dedicated time to reflect on the changes we will make. I am honored to have clients share their journey with me and to be given the opportunity to help clients attain personal growth. I am devoted to helping clients achieve their goals.
(779) 228-4063 View (779) 228-4063
Photo of Melissa Gates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rock Island County, IL
Melissa Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
(815) 288-1235 View (815) 288-1235
Photo of New Hope Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rock Island County, IL
New Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
New Office Opening in DeKalb! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
New Office Opening in DeKalb! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
(224) 302-6961 View (224) 302-6961
Photo of James Thomson, Counselor in Rock Island County, IL
James Thomson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY? Discover "What Your Anxiety is telling You." If you have a fever, your temperature is not what's wrong; it's a symptom that points to what's wrong. Let's work together to reduce your symptom of anxiety that is robbing you of your peace of mind. FOR RELATIONSHIPS: I developed the program "A World Class Love: Building the Relationship of Your Dreams" to teach couples how to stop fighting, improve their communication skills and re-kindle their love. When we work together, I will guide you through this step by step process to help you build the relationship of your dreams.
STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY? Discover "What Your Anxiety is telling You." If you have a fever, your temperature is not what's wrong; it's a symptom that points to what's wrong. Let's work together to reduce your symptom of anxiety that is robbing you of your peace of mind. FOR RELATIONSHIPS: I developed the program "A World Class Love: Building the Relationship of Your Dreams" to teach couples how to stop fighting, improve their communication skills and re-kindle their love. When we work together, I will guide you through this step by step process to help you build the relationship of your dreams.
(815) 217-2186 View (815) 217-2186

See more therapy options for Rock Island 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.