Behavioral Issues Therapists in Pleasantville, NY

Photo of Laura M. Greene in Pleasantville, NY
Laura M. Greene
LMSW, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
I am a licensed social worker and behavior analyst, with a decade of experience working with children and adults to bring about meaningful and positive change through the use of behavioral techniques. I am passionate about empowering individuals on the autism spectrum! My approach is strength-based and client centered, with a focus on creating a strong working alliance. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and mindfulness techniques to build resilience, improve self-regulation, and enhance well being. Together, we will develop coping strategies needed to create positive change.
I am a licensed social worker and behavior analyst, with a decade of experience working with children and adults to bring about meaningful and positive change through the use of behavioral techniques. I am passionate about empowering individuals on the autism spectrum! My approach is strength-based and client centered, with a focus on creating a strong working alliance. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and mindfulness techniques to build resilience, improve self-regulation, and enhance well being. Together, we will develop coping strategies needed to create positive change.
(845) 448-0628 View (845) 448-0628
Photo of Amy Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Amy Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SEP
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Making the decision to change takes courage. When that change involves our private inner world, it takes the most courage of all. My work is centered on helping clients gain freedom from the complaints that brought them in. My aim is to be an unwavering ally and partner in this journey. We will work together to dismantle belief and behavior patterns that interfere with finding joy and the freedom to live as fully as possible. My areas of specialty are relationship difficulties, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, problematic behaviors with food, and out-of-control behaviors of all kind.
Making the decision to change takes courage. When that change involves our private inner world, it takes the most courage of all. My work is centered on helping clients gain freedom from the complaints that brought them in. My aim is to be an unwavering ally and partner in this journey. We will work together to dismantle belief and behavior patterns that interfere with finding joy and the freedom to live as fully as possible. My areas of specialty are relationship difficulties, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, problematic behaviors with food, and out-of-control behaviors of all kind.
(917) 746-7306 View (917) 746-7306
Photo of Maria G Shkreli, Counselor in Pleasantville, NY
Maria G Shkreli
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
“The Only Impossible Journey is the One You Never Begin.” Thank you for visiting my profile. Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and empowerment! I'm a dedicated therapist passionate about guiding individuals through life's complexities while equipping them with the tools to thrive. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to your well-being. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Disorder, Narcissistic Abuse, behavior challenges, toxic relationships, family and couple conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am a first-generation Albanian and understand the importance of cultural
“The Only Impossible Journey is the One You Never Begin.” Thank you for visiting my profile. Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and empowerment! I'm a dedicated therapist passionate about guiding individuals through life's complexities while equipping them with the tools to thrive. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to your well-being. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Bipolar Disorder, Narcissistic Abuse, behavior challenges, toxic relationships, family and couple conflict, and life transitions. Additionally, I am a first-generation Albanian and understand the importance of cultural
(914) 368-6236 View (914) 368-6236
Photo of Christina Repp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Christina Repp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I use a range of approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome. For over 30+ years I have helped tweens, teens and adults negotiate their world. At times people can feel worried, frustrated and overwhelmed about their life, work, and relationships. We all have been there. It takes courage to find the guidance for getting out of a bad spot, feeling less stressed out, and just trying to live a better life. I have helped many people at different stages in life, with different situations. Let me help you and yours reduce negative life stressors, find some relief, and create a life worth living.
I use a range of approaches including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome. For over 30+ years I have helped tweens, teens and adults negotiate their world. At times people can feel worried, frustrated and overwhelmed about their life, work, and relationships. We all have been there. It takes courage to find the guidance for getting out of a bad spot, feeling less stressed out, and just trying to live a better life. I have helped many people at different stages in life, with different situations. Let me help you and yours reduce negative life stressors, find some relief, and create a life worth living.
(914) 984-4530 View (914) 984-4530
Photo of Coren Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Coren Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Choosing the right therapist can make all the difference. You may be someone who understands that a behavioral issue is getting in the way of successful relationships at work or at home, but can't figure out how to change it. You may be someone who is going through a life transition such as the birth of a new baby, career change, retirement, or loss of a partner. You may feel anxious, down, or have a general inability to feel happy. You may be someone who is seeking neuroaffirming care from a therapist who is sensitive, or you may feel burnout from masking or trying to conform to a world that doesn’t “get” you.
Choosing the right therapist can make all the difference. You may be someone who understands that a behavioral issue is getting in the way of successful relationships at work or at home, but can't figure out how to change it. You may be someone who is going through a life transition such as the birth of a new baby, career change, retirement, or loss of a partner. You may feel anxious, down, or have a general inability to feel happy. You may be someone who is seeking neuroaffirming care from a therapist who is sensitive, or you may feel burnout from masking or trying to conform to a world that doesn’t “get” you.
(914) 297-9297 View (914) 297-9297
Photo of Mitchell Jay Samet, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Mitchell Jay Samet
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Hello. Are you looking for a therapist who understands children, adolescents and young adults? I am a licensed psychologist and specialist in diagnosing learning and attention difficulties. I have over 25 years of experience working with young people and families. As a therapist, I utilize a variety of treatment modalities aimed at short-term, solution oriented problem resolution, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have prepared thousands of expert Psychological and Neuropsychological evaluations, and have chaired and participated in many, many CSE and Section 504 meetings.
Hello. Are you looking for a therapist who understands children, adolescents and young adults? I am a licensed psychologist and specialist in diagnosing learning and attention difficulties. I have over 25 years of experience working with young people and families. As a therapist, I utilize a variety of treatment modalities aimed at short-term, solution oriented problem resolution, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have prepared thousands of expert Psychological and Neuropsychological evaluations, and have chaired and participated in many, many CSE and Section 504 meetings.
(914) 573-4581 View (914) 573-4581
Photo of Elyse Beyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Elyse Beyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I work with adults and teens, couples and families seeking help with overcoming issues in everyday life having to do with marital and parenting concerns, issues surrounding divorce and separation, relationship issues, life transitions, school and work, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, social anxiety and behavioral problems. I engage with my clients in a professional, warm, caring and empathic manner, helping people to make positive changes in their lives. I offer support and guidance to overcome unsuccessful and self-defeating patterns and help you learn more about yourself in order to make successful positive changes towards personal growth.
I work with adults and teens, couples and families seeking help with overcoming issues in everyday life having to do with marital and parenting concerns, issues surrounding divorce and separation, relationship issues, life transitions, school and work, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, social anxiety and behavioral problems. I engage with my clients in a professional, warm, caring and empathic manner, helping people to make positive changes in their lives. I offer support and guidance to overcome unsuccessful and self-defeating patterns and help you learn more about yourself in order to make successful positive changes towards personal growth.
(914) 935-7735 View (914) 935-7735
Photo of Donald Merriman, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Donald Merriman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Certified School Psychologist specializing in individual and group counseling for children, adolescents and young adults. I have over nine years of experience as a clinician working with a broad spectrum of clients. My areas of special training and expertise include working with individuals with anxiety, depression, AD/HD, oppositional/defiant behavior, developmental disabilities, academic difficulties, peer related issues; providing parent training; and conducting psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Certified School Psychologist specializing in individual and group counseling for children, adolescents and young adults. I have over nine years of experience as a clinician working with a broad spectrum of clients. My areas of special training and expertise include working with individuals with anxiety, depression, AD/HD, oppositional/defiant behavior, developmental disabilities, academic difficulties, peer related issues; providing parent training; and conducting psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations.
(845) 208-0737 View (845) 208-0737
Photo of Michaela D'Urso in Pleasantville, NY
Michaela D'Urso
MS
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
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Photo of Deborah Botnick, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Deborah Botnick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who uses a supportive and integrative approach that relies on psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral modalities.
I view psychotherapy as a safe and nurturing environment where you feel comfortable exploring the thoughts and feelings that are linked to distress or problems. I specialize in working with adults, early career professionals, and women and/or couples who have been confronted with issues of infertility and miscarriage. Within these populations, I commonly work with issues of anxiety, depression, loss, relationship problems, career dilemmas, and life transitions. I tend to take an active role in helping you better understand your issues that often lead to feeling stuck, helpless or overwhelmed in life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who uses a supportive and integrative approach that relies on psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral modalities.
I view psychotherapy as a safe and nurturing environment where you feel comfortable exploring the thoughts and feelings that are linked to distress or problems. I specialize in working with adults, early career professionals, and women and/or couples who have been confronted with issues of infertility and miscarriage. Within these populations, I commonly work with issues of anxiety, depression, loss, relationship problems, career dilemmas, and life transitions. I tend to take an active role in helping you better understand your issues that often lead to feeling stuck, helpless or overwhelmed in life.
(914) 502-3342 View (914) 502-3342
Photo of Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being PLLC, Counselor in Pleasantville, NY
Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Jonathan Marrero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has comprehensive training in evidenced based counseling practices of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which targets how our thoughts impact our emotions and behaviors as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training. He works with children, adolescents, college-aged, and adult clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions to help resolve the distress they are experiencing. Jonathan collaborates with his clients to develop solution-focused approaches to help them feel less stuck, more present, and more in control of their daily experiences.
Jonathan Marrero is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has comprehensive training in evidenced based counseling practices of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which targets how our thoughts impact our emotions and behaviors as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training. He works with children, adolescents, college-aged, and adult clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions to help resolve the distress they are experiencing. Jonathan collaborates with his clients to develop solution-focused approaches to help them feel less stuck, more present, and more in control of their daily experiences.
(914) 598-9979 x1 View (914) 598-9979 x1
Photo of Marissa Kornblau, Licensed Master Social Worker in Pleasantville, NY
Marissa Kornblau
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I combine psychotherapy, elements from the Ackerman Relational Model, and evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I provide supportive therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I treat patients with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, infertility, grief, loss, health related issues, and more. I offer a warm and empathetic approach. This is my personal style, and also reflects my core belief that progress is more achievable when patients feel at ease, and can be their true selves in a safe space without fear of judgment. Together, we will identify your strengths and use them to address obstacles. I will ask probing questions that challenge you to think about your assumptions from a new perspective, and I will actively listen.
I combine psychotherapy, elements from the Ackerman Relational Model, and evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I provide supportive therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I treat patients with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, infertility, grief, loss, health related issues, and more. I offer a warm and empathetic approach. This is my personal style, and also reflects my core belief that progress is more achievable when patients feel at ease, and can be their true selves in a safe space without fear of judgment. Together, we will identify your strengths and use them to address obstacles. I will ask probing questions that challenge you to think about your assumptions from a new perspective, and I will actively listen.
(914) 559-7492 View (914) 559-7492
Photo of Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being, Counselor in Pleasantville, NY
Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being
Counselor, MSPD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
We are a small group of Licensed Mental Health Counselors who use short-term, skill-based counseling called cognitive behavior therapy (cbt) and dialectical behavior therapy (dbt) that is proven to be effective.
We work with our clients to help them to have more caring and steady relationships, control over intense emotions, ability to tolerate difficult times and enhanced communication skills. We partner with you to help you to gain the skills and coping strategies needed to enjoy your life. Our therapists are highly skilled and are passionate about helping our clients to meet their goals.
We are a small group of Licensed Mental Health Counselors who use short-term, skill-based counseling called cognitive behavior therapy (cbt) and dialectical behavior therapy (dbt) that is proven to be effective.
We work with our clients to help them to have more caring and steady relationships, control over intense emotions, ability to tolerate difficult times and enhanced communication skills. We partner with you to help you to gain the skills and coping strategies needed to enjoy your life. Our therapists are highly skilled and are passionate about helping our clients to meet their goals.
(914) 984-4159 x1 View (914) 984-4159 x1
Photo of Samuel Parton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Samuel Parton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
Working in schools and foster care settings for years, Sam is an expert in child and adolescent therapy. He utilizes two of the leading therapies, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). With CBT, Sam helps clients change unhelpful thought processes and behavioral patterns and aids clients in bravely facing their fears. While with DBT, he helps clients learn better emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. He is passionate about building connections and assists clients in finding strengths and skills within themselves to work through any struggles they might be experiencing.
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Photo of Clorinda Bulfamante, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Clorinda Bulfamante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
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Photo of Cheryl Pacione in Pleasantville, NY
Cheryl Pacione
LMHC
Not Verified Not Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns.
I establish trust and rapport with many diverse populations such as LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous relationships. I sat on the New York State committee for inclusion and diversity for several years. I specialize in working with persons with a variety of mental health concerns such as: Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders and Sexual Identity. I also work with transition age youth who are on the spectrum. In addition, I am a Vocational Counselor so I can assist with job-related issues. My familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act puts me in a uniquely qualified position to help the disabled population.
By applying complementary therapy approaches, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns.
I establish trust and rapport with many diverse populations such as LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous relationships. I sat on the New York State committee for inclusion and diversity for several years. I specialize in working with persons with a variety of mental health concerns such as: Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders and Sexual Identity. I also work with transition age youth who are on the spectrum. In addition, I am a Vocational Counselor so I can assist with job-related issues. My familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act puts me in a uniquely qualified position to help the disabled population.
(914) 743-3839 View (914) 743-3839
Photo of Benjamin Garfein in Pleasantville, NY
Benjamin Garfein
BCBA, MS-Ed
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I've created special interest social groups that can function as a base of support for kids looking to share their passions, connect with like-minded peers, choose their own social goals, do group hikes/meals/games/discussions, and get bi-weekly 1:1 coaching with behavioral skills training.
Adolescents, especially neurodiverse middle & high schoolers, are increasingly reporting social isolation. For some, reaching out and trying to connect can be so filled with pressure & doubt, so dispiriting when it doesn’t work out, that they opt out. Others feel variations of overwhelmed, angry, or alienated. These kids have a lot to offer, but struggle to navigate our hidden, often irrational social rulebook, and their practical opportunities have often dried up. They deserve a psychologically safe place where they can pursue their passions alongside peers. I've created groups and reserved 1:1 sessions to address this need.
I've created special interest social groups that can function as a base of support for kids looking to share their passions, connect with like-minded peers, choose their own social goals, do group hikes/meals/games/discussions, and get bi-weekly 1:1 coaching with behavioral skills training.
Adolescents, especially neurodiverse middle & high schoolers, are increasingly reporting social isolation. For some, reaching out and trying to connect can be so filled with pressure & doubt, so dispiriting when it doesn’t work out, that they opt out. Others feel variations of overwhelmed, angry, or alienated. These kids have a lot to offer, but struggle to navigate our hidden, often irrational social rulebook, and their practical opportunities have often dried up. They deserve a psychologically safe place where they can pursue their passions alongside peers. I've created groups and reserved 1:1 sessions to address this need.
(914) 303-7743 View (914) 303-7743
Photo of Donna Herman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Donna Herman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
The work I do is primarity cognitive behavioral therapy enabling the client to work on core issues which are most persistent in their lives.
I started my social work career working with children and families. This experience has helped to shape my work with clients and to understand how our experiences in our own families affect our lives. Since I have been in the field for over 30 years, I utilize both my analytic training (four years post masters) as well my roots as a social worker. I believe in enabling clients to work in the here and now to make good choices based on sound understanding of their motivations. My experience is wide ranging but working with clients who have depression and anxiety is a specialty as well as clients suffering from OCD. For the past 15 years I have worked with adult children of alcoholics as well as those in early recovery from a variety of addictions including drug, alcohol, smoking, gambling and shopping. I look forward to meeting with you and to encourage and support you on your journey of self discovery.
The work I do is primarity cognitive behavioral therapy enabling the client to work on core issues which are most persistent in their lives.
I started my social work career working with children and families. This experience has helped to shape my work with clients and to understand how our experiences in our own families affect our lives. Since I have been in the field for over 30 years, I utilize both my analytic training (four years post masters) as well my roots as a social worker. I believe in enabling clients to work in the here and now to make good choices based on sound understanding of their motivations. My experience is wide ranging but working with clients who have depression and anxiety is a specialty as well as clients suffering from OCD. For the past 15 years I have worked with adult children of alcoholics as well as those in early recovery from a variety of addictions including drug, alcohol, smoking, gambling and shopping. I look forward to meeting with you and to encourage and support you on your journey of self discovery.
(914) 458-2966 x1 View (914) 458-2966 x1
Photo of Michael L. Costa, Psychologist in Pleasantville, NY
Michael L. Costa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Dr. Michael Costa is passionate about providing effective individual and group therapy based in scientific research. He has expertise in the the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, such as OCD and PTSD, mood disorders, such as depression, and behavioral difficulties in children and adolescents. As such, Dr. Costa has gained extensive experience providing evidence-based treatments, specifically cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs), such as exposure therapy, exposure and response prevention (E/RP), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and behavioral parent training (BPT).
Dr. Michael Costa is passionate about providing effective individual and group therapy based in scientific research. He has expertise in the the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, such as OCD and PTSD, mood disorders, such as depression, and behavioral difficulties in children and adolescents. As such, Dr. Costa has gained extensive experience providing evidence-based treatments, specifically cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs), such as exposure therapy, exposure and response prevention (E/RP), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and behavioral parent training (BPT).
(914) 342-7998 View (914) 342-7998
Photo of Christine Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasantville, NY
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
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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.