Photo of Andrea Carpenter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Andrea Carpenter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PCIT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating children & adolescents, as well as adults who struggle with behavioral needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD & life transitions among other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor & a certified PCIT therapist/trainer. I have been working with children, youth, families, & adults for the past 10 years who have experienced a variety of different stressors, traumatic situations, & transitions/adjustments. My approach is therapy is to create a safe & accepting environment, help you develop insight into your thoughts, feelings & actions as well as develop effective coping strategies to manage stressors. Therapy will help you feel more confident & supported while also helping you/or your child learn to manage your emotions, needs & be able to communicate those with others.
I specialize in treating children & adolescents, as well as adults who struggle with behavioral needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD & life transitions among other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor & a certified PCIT therapist/trainer. I have been working with children, youth, families, & adults for the past 10 years who have experienced a variety of different stressors, traumatic situations, & transitions/adjustments. My approach is therapy is to create a safe & accepting environment, help you develop insight into your thoughts, feelings & actions as well as develop effective coping strategies to manage stressors. Therapy will help you feel more confident & supported while also helping you/or your child learn to manage your emotions, needs & be able to communicate those with others.
View
Photo of Jenna Cataldi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Jenna Cataldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating individuals who are struggling with sexual relationships, gender identity, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Therapy can be scary. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. As a therapist, I believe art making provides another language to communicate and process life experiences that are difficult to verbalize. Mark making represents evidence of our existence, and having a witness to your story is a powerful first step.
I specialize in treating individuals who are struggling with sexual relationships, gender identity, trauma, and behavioral issues.
Therapy can be scary. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. As a therapist, I believe art making provides another language to communicate and process life experiences that are difficult to verbalize. Mark making represents evidence of our existence, and having a witness to your story is a powerful first step.
(703) 705-2565 View (703) 705-2565
Photo of Tracey E Guard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Tracey E Guard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Problematic use of pornography? Promiscuous sexual behavior that is impacting your relationships? Legal involvement as the result of sexual behavior? I can help you understand where and how these behaviors originate and give you the tools to implement change which will in turn assist in gaining more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
Problematic use of pornography? Promiscuous sexual behavior that is impacting your relationships? Legal involvement as the result of sexual behavior? I can help you understand where and how these behaviors originate and give you the tools to implement change which will in turn assist in gaining more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
(703) 457-8839 View (703) 457-8839
Photo of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
It focuses on what is causing the behavior so it can be dealt with directly and the behavioral or emotional symptoms are no longer needed.
Being a child is a special time full of curiosity, exploration, and learning. It is also a time when your body is growing, language is developing, social skills are evolving, and your capacity to cope is a work in progress. It doesn’t take much to feel unsure, overwhelmed, stressed, or unseen. Struggles are expressed through emotional and behavioral distress - tantrums, defiance, dysregulation, difficulty with focus, transitions, separation, or withdrawal from others/school/activities. It can also show up as jealousy, attention-seeking, aggression, anxiety, depression, or hyperactivity. PCIT is specifically designed for this stage.
It focuses on what is causing the behavior so it can be dealt with directly and the behavioral or emotional symptoms are no longer needed.
Being a child is a special time full of curiosity, exploration, and learning. It is also a time when your body is growing, language is developing, social skills are evolving, and your capacity to cope is a work in progress. It doesn’t take much to feel unsure, overwhelmed, stressed, or unseen. Struggles are expressed through emotional and behavioral distress - tantrums, defiance, dysregulation, difficulty with focus, transitions, separation, or withdrawal from others/school/activities. It can also show up as jealousy, attention-seeking, aggression, anxiety, depression, or hyperactivity. PCIT is specifically designed for this stage.
(804) 395-7020 View (804) 395-7020
Virginia Home-Based Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to adult individuals with impairments in major life activities that have mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders with the purpose of facilitating an individual's functioning and promoting his/her autonomy.
Virginia Home-Based Counseling, P.C. is an intensive in-home counseling service for children, adolescents, and their families. The goal is to address problems and provide therapeutic services designed to empower individuals and families, allowing them to develop and lead healthier lives. The primary goal of this program is to preserve the family unit and prevent the unnecessary placement of children outside of their homes or community. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services to our community, including but not limited to: assessments, crisis intervention and treatment, individual and family counseling, life skills training, therapeutic parenting techniques, communication and relationship enhancement, individual case management, and 24-hour emergency response.
provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to adult individuals with impairments in major life activities that have mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders with the purpose of facilitating an individual's functioning and promoting his/her autonomy.
Virginia Home-Based Counseling, P.C. is an intensive in-home counseling service for children, adolescents, and their families. The goal is to address problems and provide therapeutic services designed to empower individuals and families, allowing them to develop and lead healthier lives. The primary goal of this program is to preserve the family unit and prevent the unnecessary placement of children outside of their homes or community. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services to our community, including but not limited to: assessments, crisis intervention and treatment, individual and family counseling, life skills training, therapeutic parenting techniques, communication and relationship enhancement, individual case management, and 24-hour emergency response.
(571) 620-6788 View (571) 620-6788
Photo of Martia Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Martia Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20153  (Online Only)
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, to bring healing by providing a comfortable and optimistic environment where therapy is collaborative, supportive, non-judgmental, safe, and accessible.
Living life brings on many challenges that can be difficult to navigate from time to time. On occasions, we may feel stuck on our journey or lost and don't know which way to go. Troubles that arise in life, whether it be within the home, relationships, parenting, phase of life adjustment, or just prolong exposure to life's everyday stressful events and unanticipated circumstances, can lead to a kind of mental/self/spiritual erosion and before we realize it, we are crumbling beneath the weight and pressures of life.
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, to bring healing by providing a comfortable and optimistic environment where therapy is collaborative, supportive, non-judgmental, safe, and accessible.
Living life brings on many challenges that can be difficult to navigate from time to time. On occasions, we may feel stuck on our journey or lost and don't know which way to go. Troubles that arise in life, whether it be within the home, relationships, parenting, phase of life adjustment, or just prolong exposure to life's everyday stressful events and unanticipated circumstances, can lead to a kind of mental/self/spiritual erosion and before we realize it, we are crumbling beneath the weight and pressures of life.
(571) 520-5560 View (571) 520-5560
Photo of Crystal Boateng, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fairfax, VA
Crystal Boateng
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20151  (Online Only)
My unconditional passion for the Mental Health field is beyond measures. I have worked with a dynamic age range, but mostly specialize in the ages of 11-45 years of age. I provide services to clients that have struggled with behavioral issues, mental health issues, addictions, active psychosis, psychological disorders, genetic disorders, crisis stabilization purposes, substance abuse, and much more. My motto for all my clients is that I do not have a magic wand to ensure all issues will disappear in the blink of an eye, but I do have the patience, endurance, and heart to create change in any individual's life that I may encounter.
My unconditional passion for the Mental Health field is beyond measures. I have worked with a dynamic age range, but mostly specialize in the ages of 11-45 years of age. I provide services to clients that have struggled with behavioral issues, mental health issues, addictions, active psychosis, psychological disorders, genetic disorders, crisis stabilization purposes, substance abuse, and much more. My motto for all my clients is that I do not have a magic wand to ensure all issues will disappear in the blink of an eye, but I do have the patience, endurance, and heart to create change in any individual's life that I may encounter.
(571) 200-5627 View (571) 200-5627
Photo of Kristin Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Kristin Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 20151  (Online Only)
I like to use a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Person Centered.
Whether you’re facing new personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed by life’s stresses, seeking self-growth, or looking for help for your teen or tween, I am grateful to explore the possibility of therapy with you. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to process your thoughts and concerns together. I value being present with you and exploring how you can utilize your strengths to overcome life’s challenges. My hope is that through therapy you will feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach your personal goals. My therapy style is not only heart warming but tough love and support as well in nature.
I like to use a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Person Centered.
Whether you’re facing new personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed by life’s stresses, seeking self-growth, or looking for help for your teen or tween, I am grateful to explore the possibility of therapy with you. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to process your thoughts and concerns together. I value being present with you and exploring how you can utilize your strengths to overcome life’s challenges. My hope is that through therapy you will feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach your personal goals. My therapy style is not only heart warming but tough love and support as well in nature.
(757) 919-9360 View (757) 919-9360
Photo of Center for Clinical Health Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Center for Clinical Health Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22034
We are experienced mental health and behavioral health professionals working closely with the families, individuals and couples in processing the undesirable situations and maladaptive behaviors, identifying the dysfunctional coping strategies and substituting it with appropriate skills in a therapeutic setting. We work together to advocate for self and thrive. We open a new horizon for individuals diagnosed under autism spectrum, learning disabilities and Serious Mental Illnesses to fulfill and achieve life long goals. We provide support as it fits your life style and preferences to have successful stand in life.
We are experienced mental health and behavioral health professionals working closely with the families, individuals and couples in processing the undesirable situations and maladaptive behaviors, identifying the dysfunctional coping strategies and substituting it with appropriate skills in a therapeutic setting. We work together to advocate for self and thrive. We open a new horizon for individuals diagnosed under autism spectrum, learning disabilities and Serious Mental Illnesses to fulfill and achieve life long goals. We provide support as it fits your life style and preferences to have successful stand in life.
(571) 620-6019 View (571) 620-6019
Photo of David Paul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
David Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Through mindfulness practices grounded in cognitive behavioral theory along with psychodynamic techniques you will gain new insights and awareness of old patterns that cause undue suffering.
The goal of all therapy and counseling is to reduce suffering. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, ADHD, relationship problems, traumatic past, gender identity, sexual orientation, or just feeling stuck and dissatisfied with life, therapy can be a powerful vehicle for holistic change and increased peace and contentment. By focusing on your natural strengths we work collaboratively to identify the roadblocks internally and externally getting in the way of leading a fulfilled life.
Through mindfulness practices grounded in cognitive behavioral theory along with psychodynamic techniques you will gain new insights and awareness of old patterns that cause undue suffering.
The goal of all therapy and counseling is to reduce suffering. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, impulsivity, ADHD, relationship problems, traumatic past, gender identity, sexual orientation, or just feeling stuck and dissatisfied with life, therapy can be a powerful vehicle for holistic change and increased peace and contentment. By focusing on your natural strengths we work collaboratively to identify the roadblocks internally and externally getting in the way of leading a fulfilled life.
(202) 849-9624 View (202) 849-9624
Photo of Stephanie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Stephanie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trained in EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am a trauma-informed licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who is dedicated to helping people from diverse backgrounds reach their personal goals and lead more satisfying lives. My areas of clinical expertise include supporting clients with issues related to mood, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, attention, learning, behavior, stress management, substance abuse and life transitions.
I am Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trained in EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am a trauma-informed licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who is dedicated to helping people from diverse backgrounds reach their personal goals and lead more satisfying lives. My areas of clinical expertise include supporting clients with issues related to mood, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, attention, learning, behavior, stress management, substance abuse and life transitions.
(571) 281-4047 View (571) 281-4047
Photo of Diana Dahlgren, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Diana Dahlgren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in psychological testing and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults to assess intellectual, educational, personality, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I offer ADHD, LD, GT (AAP), and ED evaluations for purposes of school placement, as well as special education services and accommodations, including on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT. I provide forensic services which include court evaluations and child custody evaluations, and therapy services include individual, marital, and family therapy.
I specialize in psychological testing and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults to assess intellectual, educational, personality, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I offer ADHD, LD, GT (AAP), and ED evaluations for purposes of school placement, as well as special education services and accommodations, including on standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT and MCAT. I provide forensic services which include court evaluations and child custody evaluations, and therapy services include individual, marital, and family therapy.
(703) 997-8635 View (703) 997-8635
Photo of Ronnie Zuessman, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Ronnie Zuessman
Psychologist, PhD, LCP-VA, LMFT-VA, LMHC-NY
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
As a psychologist and psychotherapist, I have an integrative theoretical orientation, grounded in existential and humanistic psychology, drawing from psychodynamic, systemic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches.
People often seek counseling or psychotherapy to change and to resolve difficulties or problems. Seeking consultation is personal and it takes some courage to initiate contact. Sometimes the impetus comes from within; sometimes your circumstances or others close to you provide a nudge. Finding the 'right' therapist for you may take some exploration. Some people simply seek to talk privately about a subject or an issue. This may involve one's direction in life, career, management role, or decision-making. Some people seek to address deeply personal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, spirituality, or other concerns.
As a psychologist and psychotherapist, I have an integrative theoretical orientation, grounded in existential and humanistic psychology, drawing from psychodynamic, systemic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches.
People often seek counseling or psychotherapy to change and to resolve difficulties or problems. Seeking consultation is personal and it takes some courage to initiate contact. Sometimes the impetus comes from within; sometimes your circumstances or others close to you provide a nudge. Finding the 'right' therapist for you may take some exploration. Some people simply seek to talk privately about a subject or an issue. This may involve one's direction in life, career, management role, or decision-making. Some people seek to address deeply personal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, spirituality, or other concerns.
(703) 260-9459 View (703) 260-9459
Photo of Fairfax Integrative Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Fairfax Integrative Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
We have current openings for family, couple, and individual (adult and child) therapy and for EMDR intensives. We are a collaborative practice of Licensed and Resident Marriage and Family Therapists. We come from a warm, direct approach aimed at helping our clients feel comfortable and safe while actively working to meet their goals. Our therapists work from a systemic, strength based approach to treat a variety of issues including mood struggles, relationship and conflict issues, anger management, behavioral issues, trauma, and parenting and family issues. We are licensed to treat clients in VA, DC, MD, NC, and NH.
We have current openings for family, couple, and individual (adult and child) therapy and for EMDR intensives. We are a collaborative practice of Licensed and Resident Marriage and Family Therapists. We come from a warm, direct approach aimed at helping our clients feel comfortable and safe while actively working to meet their goals. Our therapists work from a systemic, strength based approach to treat a variety of issues including mood struggles, relationship and conflict issues, anger management, behavioral issues, trauma, and parenting and family issues. We are licensed to treat clients in VA, DC, MD, NC, and NH.
(571) 223-6515 View (571) 223-6515
Photo of Takhyun Cho, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Takhyun Cho
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My areas of expertise include working with individuals of all ages struggling with behavioral and emotional issues, including anger management, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Additionally, I have experience working with clients struggling with spiritual issues and those with family members with emotional struggles. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision (VA & MD) to intern counselors, helping them develop their skills and knowledge to become effective therapists. I am also pleased to offer therapy sessions in Korean as well.
Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My areas of expertise include working with individuals of all ages struggling with behavioral and emotional issues, including anger management, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Additionally, I have experience working with clients struggling with spiritual issues and those with family members with emotional struggles. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision (VA & MD) to intern counselors, helping them develop their skills and knowledge to become effective therapists. I am also pleased to offer therapy sessions in Korean as well.
(703) 420-7481 View (703) 420-7481
Photo of Heather Ann Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Heather Ann Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have worked in many settings including inpatient, outpatient, schools, home based therapy, sexual assault services, respite care, family services, emergency/crisis intervention and community mental health. I am trained and certified in many clinical interventions that allows for an integrative approach. I incorporate skill building, trauma interventions, behavioral modification, resourcing, and collaborative work with others to provide the most effective results possible.
I have worked in many settings including inpatient, outpatient, schools, home based therapy, sexual assault services, respite care, family services, emergency/crisis intervention and community mental health. I am trained and certified in many clinical interventions that allows for an integrative approach. I incorporate skill building, trauma interventions, behavioral modification, resourcing, and collaborative work with others to provide the most effective results possible.
(571) 248-7027 View (571) 248-7027
Photo of Tawana Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Tawana Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033  (Online Only)
The mind is the most powerful resource of the body. It is also, unfortunately, the least managed. It keeps a record of experiences and dictates emotions to us based on those experiences. What we think, feel, and believe impacts how we interact and perform. Often, more than we know. What I do is help facilitate mind and body realignment for the achievement of optimal performance in school, at work, and in personal lives. With an eclectic and flexible approach, I integrate mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, self-reflection, and different holistic approaches to address your overall well-being.
The mind is the most powerful resource of the body. It is also, unfortunately, the least managed. It keeps a record of experiences and dictates emotions to us based on those experiences. What we think, feel, and believe impacts how we interact and perform. Often, more than we know. What I do is help facilitate mind and body realignment for the achievement of optimal performance in school, at work, and in personal lives. With an eclectic and flexible approach, I integrate mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, self-reflection, and different holistic approaches to address your overall well-being.
(703) 260-8650 View (703) 260-8650
Photo of Bernadette Landry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Bernadette Landry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Working with a psychotherapist in individual therapy can be the key in generating positive change and real growth. Devoted to providing therapy to individuals, couples and families of all ages and populations, I have numerous years of experience in a variety of settings including private practices in the Northern VA area, substance abuse treatment centers and most recently, the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB). I have a personal interest in working with severe-mental illness and running Dialectal Behavior Therapy Groups.
Working with a psychotherapist in individual therapy can be the key in generating positive change and real growth. Devoted to providing therapy to individuals, couples and families of all ages and populations, I have numerous years of experience in a variety of settings including private practices in the Northern VA area, substance abuse treatment centers and most recently, the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB). I have a personal interest in working with severe-mental illness and running Dialectal Behavior Therapy Groups.
(571) 777-0348 View (571) 777-0348
Photo of Cathi Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Cathi Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I opened In Step, a private mental health practice, 25 years ago in the hope that children, teens, parents, and adults would see us as a safe place where they can learn and grow. I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting struggles, and relationship problems. Using various approaches – Relational Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), and Parent Coaching, I see clients alone, as part of a couple, and as part of the family.
I opened In Step, a private mental health practice, 25 years ago in the hope that children, teens, parents, and adults would see us as a safe place where they can learn and grow. I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting struggles, and relationship problems. Using various approaches – Relational Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), and Parent Coaching, I see clients alone, as part of a couple, and as part of the family.
(703) 291-6374 View (703) 291-6374
Photo of Sharon Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Sharon Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Living a life with more joy and fulfillment is truly possible for you. With a full heart, I will walk with you to develop a healthier sense of self, nurture positive behavioral and thought patterns that leads to personal growth and healing. My personal model of therapy integrates your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while providing a way for you to drive your therapy sessions to a place where you feel acknowledged and empowered. As a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) in Virginia, my core competencies center around my work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(571) 339-5661 View (571) 339-5661
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.