Behavioral Issues Therapists in Bryn Mawr, PA

Photo of Sarah Espenshade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Sarah Espenshade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Founder of a full-service concierge outpatient behavioral health practice with over 15 years of experience working in residential, outpatient and community-based settings treating adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating complex individuals and families employing a comprehensive, multi-systematic treatment approach utilizing evidence-based practices: motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and experiential therapy. Services include: Interventions, coaching, crisis management, comprehensive evaluation, individual & family counseling, treatment consultation and case management.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Founder of a full-service concierge outpatient behavioral health practice with over 15 years of experience working in residential, outpatient and community-based settings treating adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating complex individuals and families employing a comprehensive, multi-systematic treatment approach utilizing evidence-based practices: motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, EMDR and experiential therapy. Services include: Interventions, coaching, crisis management, comprehensive evaluation, individual & family counseling, treatment consultation and case management.
(484) 380-9197 View (484) 380-9197
Photo of Rachael Ariel Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bryn Mawr, PA
Rachael Ariel Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My sessions offer help with family systems, behavioral difficulties across settings, and trauma work in a mindful, client centered approach.
My mindfulness based, play therapy training has taught me how to help children that have gone through or may be going through a trauma. A child's language is play. A play therapy room offers a variety of mediums that will help a child safely express what they need to in order to heal through their play. My sessions also will partially include the parents, where feelings and coping skills can be discussed before the play time begins.
My sessions offer help with family systems, behavioral difficulties across settings, and trauma work in a mindful, client centered approach.
My mindfulness based, play therapy training has taught me how to help children that have gone through or may be going through a trauma. A child's language is play. A play therapy room offers a variety of mediums that will help a child safely express what they need to in order to heal through their play. My sessions also will partially include the parents, where feelings and coping skills can be discussed before the play time begins.
(484) 699-0930 View (484) 699-0930
Photo of Spilove Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Spilove Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I have been providing therapy for children and families for several years after graduating from Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research. I am trauma informed and specialize in child development, attachment, mindful parenting, sensory integration, behavioral challenges, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD and grief and loss.
I have been providing therapy for children and families for several years after graduating from Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research. I am trauma informed and specialize in child development, attachment, mindful parenting, sensory integration, behavioral challenges, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD and grief and loss.
(484) 382-3843 View (484) 382-3843
Photo of Emily B. Chaffin, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Emily B. Chaffin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
The process of finding a psychologist who is a good fit for either yourself or a family member can be overwhelming and frustrating. I make it a point to ensure that clients who reach out to me feel heard and understood. Therapy can only be effective if it is a collaborative process in which clients feel they have a say in their own treatment. I mainly practice from a cognitive-behavioral perspective (CBT), but I also use other modalities in sessions in order to best meet the needs of my clients.
The process of finding a psychologist who is a good fit for either yourself or a family member can be overwhelming and frustrating. I make it a point to ensure that clients who reach out to me feel heard and understood. Therapy can only be effective if it is a collaborative process in which clients feel they have a say in their own treatment. I mainly practice from a cognitive-behavioral perspective (CBT), but I also use other modalities in sessions in order to best meet the needs of my clients.
(610) 991-8730 x3 View (610) 991-8730 x3
Photo of Andrew J. D'Amico, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Andrew J. D'Amico
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Andrew J. D'Amico PH.D LLC is a highly skilled cognitive behavioral therapist who uses a number of well researched methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Relational Frame Theory, and Compassionate Focused Therapy to treat children, adolescents, adults and families. Dr. D'Amico specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety. A seasoned family therapist, he is an expert in childhood behavioral concerns and parenting skills. Dr. D'Amico has been trained by some of the world leading cognitive behaviorists.
Andrew J. D'Amico PH.D LLC is a highly skilled cognitive behavioral therapist who uses a number of well researched methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Relational Frame Theory, and Compassionate Focused Therapy to treat children, adolescents, adults and families. Dr. D'Amico specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety. A seasoned family therapist, he is an expert in childhood behavioral concerns and parenting skills. Dr. D'Amico has been trained by some of the world leading cognitive behaviorists.
(610) 298-1484 View (610) 298-1484
Photo of Beth Rosenwasser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bryn Mawr, PA
Beth Rosenwasser
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I use a range of research-based cognitive, behavioral and family therapy approaches.
Reaching out is the 1st step toward feeling relief and achieving personal, family or professional goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation and evaluate options. I bring to the room more than 20 years of experience in clinical practice, as well as designing and directing treatment programs, training therapists, and publishing in the field. People I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in 3 - 12 sessions, or in longer-term therapy.
I use a range of research-based cognitive, behavioral and family therapy approaches.
Reaching out is the 1st step toward feeling relief and achieving personal, family or professional goals. Therapy offers private time with support to take a fresh look at your situation and evaluate options. I bring to the room more than 20 years of experience in clinical practice, as well as designing and directing treatment programs, training therapists, and publishing in the field. People I work with tell me I am easy to talk to, warm and non-judgmental. They appreciate my ability to 'keep it real,' helping develop practical solutions in 3 - 12 sessions, or in longer-term therapy.
(484) 334-2963 View (484) 334-2963
Photo of Melissa Brand, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Melissa Brand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of children with behavior, social and developmental concerns.
Parenting is one of life's greatest adventures. Amid the numerous books, experts, and voices out there it can be difficult to determine what to do when faced with a challenge. Parents of spirited, high-energy, rigid, anxious, or disruptive children or of those who carry diagnoses may feel alone with their challenges. As your psychologist, I offer empathy, support and a collaborative approach for fostering goodness-of-fit parenting in your family. That is, I help you to discover the most effective ways for you to parent your unique child.
I also specialize in the assessment and treatment of children with behavior, social and developmental concerns.
Parenting is one of life's greatest adventures. Amid the numerous books, experts, and voices out there it can be difficult to determine what to do when faced with a challenge. Parents of spirited, high-energy, rigid, anxious, or disruptive children or of those who carry diagnoses may feel alone with their challenges. As your psychologist, I offer empathy, support and a collaborative approach for fostering goodness-of-fit parenting in your family. That is, I help you to discover the most effective ways for you to parent your unique child.
(267) 820-9551 View (267) 820-9551
Photo of Neal Stolar in Bryn Mawr, PA
Neal Stolar
MD-PhD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
At nPSYGHT, we emphasize the use of psychotherapy, while supplementing it with medication as needed and at minimum effective doses. We incorporate neuropsychotherapeutic concepts whenever possible, meaning we recognize that advances in our understanding of how the brain works can inform how psychotherapy can be conducted. We stress the importance of general good health habits - diet, exercise, sleep, relaxation methods (meditation, yoga, tai chi) - in promoting mental and behavioral well-being.
At nPSYGHT, we emphasize the use of psychotherapy, while supplementing it with medication as needed and at minimum effective doses. We incorporate neuropsychotherapeutic concepts whenever possible, meaning we recognize that advances in our understanding of how the brain works can inform how psychotherapy can be conducted. We stress the importance of general good health habits - diet, exercise, sleep, relaxation methods (meditation, yoga, tai chi) - in promoting mental and behavioral well-being.
(267) 983-5528 View (267) 983-5528
Photo of Cognitive Behavioral Counseling LLC, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Cognitive Behavioral Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, Dr.
Do racing thoughts or depressive feelings keep you from being your authentic self? Do you want to live a richer and fuller life? Life transition, trauma, stress, insomnia and addiction are difficult experiences to navigate. Dr. Berman will help you to build a sense of confidence when confronted with these issues while becoming more at ease in your life. Combining compassionate care with evidence-based therapy, Dr. Berman uses techniques proven to build self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, Dr.
Do racing thoughts or depressive feelings keep you from being your authentic self? Do you want to live a richer and fuller life? Life transition, trauma, stress, insomnia and addiction are difficult experiences to navigate. Dr. Berman will help you to build a sense of confidence when confronted with these issues while becoming more at ease in your life. Combining compassionate care with evidence-based therapy, Dr. Berman uses techniques proven to build self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
(610) 839-8938 View (610) 839-8938
Photo of Christine M Baur, Counselor in Bryn Mawr, PA
Christine M Baur
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My therapeutic style is eclectic with a focus on cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and person centered techniques.
My clients often tell me how safe and comfortable they feel in our work together. I dedicate myself to creating an environment of trust, acceptance, and empowerment where my clients can discuss their innermost thoughts, feelings and fears without any judgement. For over 17 years I've worked to help my clients explore and learn healthier ways to cope with and change the parts of their lives that cause them pain or discomfort. I am incredibly passionate about the work I do and am truly dedicated toward helping people create happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives through positive lasting change.
My therapeutic style is eclectic with a focus on cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and person centered techniques.
My clients often tell me how safe and comfortable they feel in our work together. I dedicate myself to creating an environment of trust, acceptance, and empowerment where my clients can discuss their innermost thoughts, feelings and fears without any judgement. For over 17 years I've worked to help my clients explore and learn healthier ways to cope with and change the parts of their lives that cause them pain or discomfort. I am incredibly passionate about the work I do and am truly dedicated toward helping people create happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives through positive lasting change.
(267) 394-9722 View (267) 394-9722
Photo of Samantha Levinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bryn Mawr, PA
Samantha Levinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
These treatment modalities include: person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), child development, and play therapy.
One of the main components of therapy is to provide a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. My office offers teletherapy play sessions with children and is also easily transformed into a space comfortable for adolescents, adults, and couples. For more than 15 years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral and emotional challenges. My professional experience consists of working in a variety of settings including: in-home therapy, outpatient, and group practice. My clinical areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, autism and trauma.
These treatment modalities include: person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), child development, and play therapy.
One of the main components of therapy is to provide a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. My office offers teletherapy play sessions with children and is also easily transformed into a space comfortable for adolescents, adults, and couples. For more than 15 years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral and emotional challenges. My professional experience consists of working in a variety of settings including: in-home therapy, outpatient, and group practice. My clinical areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, autism and trauma.
(484) 214-2429 View (484) 214-2429
Photo of Paula Durlofsky, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Paula Durlofsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Welcome to my practice! My practice has a focus on psychological issues affecting individuals, couples, and families. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, psychodynamic and dialectical behavioral therapies. Psychoanalytic-psychodynamic therapy strives for personal growth through insight-oriented approaches. Dialectical behavioral therapies examine thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the relationships and patterns between them. Additionally, I am the Co-Director of the Psychoanalytic-Psychotherapy Certification Program at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia.
Welcome to my practice! My practice has a focus on psychological issues affecting individuals, couples, and families. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, psychodynamic and dialectical behavioral therapies. Psychoanalytic-psychodynamic therapy strives for personal growth through insight-oriented approaches. Dialectical behavioral therapies examine thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the relationships and patterns between them. Additionally, I am the Co-Director of the Psychoanalytic-Psychotherapy Certification Program at the Psychoanalytic Center of Philadelphia.
(610) 527-1107 View (610) 527-1107
Photo of Katherine Baum, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Katherine Baum
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I am a board-certified neuropsychologist with specialized training in understanding how neurological, developmental, and medical conditions affect children, teens', and young adults', and their families. I work with families to understand their concerns and use evidence-based approaches to evaluate the dynamic relationship between the brain, and an individual’s thoughts, behavior, learning, emotions, culture, and environment. Armed with this information, I work with families and others (teachers, doctors) to identify specific next steps. The goal is greater joy, fulfillment, purpose, satisfaction, and connectedness.
I am a board-certified neuropsychologist with specialized training in understanding how neurological, developmental, and medical conditions affect children, teens', and young adults', and their families. I work with families to understand their concerns and use evidence-based approaches to evaluate the dynamic relationship between the brain, and an individual’s thoughts, behavior, learning, emotions, culture, and environment. Armed with this information, I work with families and others (teachers, doctors) to identify specific next steps. The goal is greater joy, fulfillment, purpose, satisfaction, and connectedness.
(215) 631-8207 View (215) 631-8207
Photo of Julia Vahlsing, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Julia Vahlsing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Dr. Vahlsing is experienced in treating children, adolescents, and adults. She has specialized interests in treating all types of anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, grief issues, college stress, trauma, and developmental concerns. By virtue of a diverse training background, Dr. Vahlsing utilizes a variety of treatment orientations in her approach to therapy designed to meet the specific needs of individuals or families seeking care, although she is grounded in a cognitive-behavioral framework.
Dr. Vahlsing is experienced in treating children, adolescents, and adults. She has specialized interests in treating all types of anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, grief issues, college stress, trauma, and developmental concerns. By virtue of a diverse training background, Dr. Vahlsing utilizes a variety of treatment orientations in her approach to therapy designed to meet the specific needs of individuals or families seeking care, although she is grounded in a cognitive-behavioral framework.
(484) 969-9392 View (484) 969-9392
Photo of Dawn Amey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Dawn Amey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCBA
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
As a licensed clinical social worker & board certified behavior analyst, my approach to therapy blends a person's perspective with the environmental & learning components surrounding his/her life.
My practice focuses on helping preteens, teens, and young adults and/or their families feel better via individual and group treatment. Seeking help and accepting guidance can be the first steps toward creating the life you want and deserve.
As a licensed clinical social worker & board certified behavior analyst, my approach to therapy blends a person's perspective with the environmental & learning components surrounding his/her life.
My practice focuses on helping preteens, teens, and young adults and/or their families feel better via individual and group treatment. Seeking help and accepting guidance can be the first steps toward creating the life you want and deserve.
(302) 360-8086 View (302) 360-8086
Photo of Jeannine C Alvare', Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Jeannine C Alvare'
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
In addition to a Psycho-dynamic approach I offer expertise in Play Therapy with children, Experiential/Wilderness Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques as well as Mindfulness methods.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
In addition to a Psycho-dynamic approach I offer expertise in Play Therapy with children, Experiential/Wilderness Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques as well as Mindfulness methods.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
(484) 494-2899 View (484) 494-2899
Photo of Krista Mancarella, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Krista Mancarella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
Concerns related to sex and intimacy are some of the most sensitive and personal. Experiencing sexual concerns, such as low sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, or difficulty with orgasm no longer has to be secretive or embarrassing. Finding a therapist who is open, supportive, and has effective tools is imperative on the journey to satisfaction and pleasure. Using a Cognitive Behavioral & collaborative approach, I work with individuals or couples to help them further understand the concerns that effect them, their relationships, & their sexual functioning.
Concerns related to sex and intimacy are some of the most sensitive and personal. Experiencing sexual concerns, such as low sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, or difficulty with orgasm no longer has to be secretive or embarrassing. Finding a therapist who is open, supportive, and has effective tools is imperative on the journey to satisfaction and pleasure. Using a Cognitive Behavioral & collaborative approach, I work with individuals or couples to help them further understand the concerns that effect them, their relationships, & their sexual functioning.
(215) 461-3711 View (215) 461-3711
Photo of Marissa Lipkin Nathan, Psychologist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Marissa Lipkin Nathan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I emphasize a variety of scientifically proven treatments, including cognitive behavioral, exposure-based, and acceptance & mindfulness-based, which allows me to tailor treatment to your specific needs, incorporate your values & goals, and achieve effective results.
Anxiety, stress, and depression can present in many different ways, including a sense of unease, worry, negative thinking, emotional distress, bad habits, avoidance, irritability, low self-esteem, & strained relationships. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old unproductive patterns, and finding that your ways of coping with life stressors are no longer working, or making things worse, I am here to help. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, fears & phobias, social anxiety, trichotillomania & skin-picking, and relationship concerns.
I emphasize a variety of scientifically proven treatments, including cognitive behavioral, exposure-based, and acceptance & mindfulness-based, which allows me to tailor treatment to your specific needs, incorporate your values & goals, and achieve effective results.
Anxiety, stress, and depression can present in many different ways, including a sense of unease, worry, negative thinking, emotional distress, bad habits, avoidance, irritability, low self-esteem, & strained relationships. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old unproductive patterns, and finding that your ways of coping with life stressors are no longer working, or making things worse, I am here to help. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, fears & phobias, social anxiety, trichotillomania & skin-picking, and relationship concerns.
(484) 592-2691 View (484) 592-2691
Sharon Pollak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Life poses many challenges. As an experienced therapist I will work with you to help understand your feelings and experiences in order to make sense of the issues in your life. Perhaps you are struggling with relationships, life transitions or with feelings of inadequacy, perhaps life feels out of balance, or you are concerned about bothersome patterns of behavior. Anxiety, depression and grief may all accompany us as we live our lives. Listening to your story will allow me to assist you in better helping you cope. Working together I aim to help you discover new pathways to move forward on your journey.
Life poses many challenges. As an experienced therapist I will work with you to help understand your feelings and experiences in order to make sense of the issues in your life. Perhaps you are struggling with relationships, life transitions or with feelings of inadequacy, perhaps life feels out of balance, or you are concerned about bothersome patterns of behavior. Anxiety, depression and grief may all accompany us as we live our lives. Listening to your story will allow me to assist you in better helping you cope. Working together I aim to help you discover new pathways to move forward on your journey.
(267) 744-2035 View (267) 744-2035
Photo of Justin Jenkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bryn Mawr, PA
Justin Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
I am experienced in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based, and narrative therapy.
Welcome to therapy! I am here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I understand asking for help is hard; it can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
I am experienced in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based, and narrative therapy.
Welcome to therapy! I am here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I understand asking for help is hard; it can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
(484) 603-6143 View (484) 603-6143
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.