Behavioral Issues Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Michael Christiansen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Christiansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Parts Work Therapy, and PCIT.
I work with a variety of clients, ranging in age from 2 years old through late 20s and early 30s. My hope is that I can help individuals and families learn more effective ways to respond to challenges in their lives that may come from things such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to large changes. PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), in particular, is an approach that I specialize in. PCIT is focused on helping caregivers learn effective ways to address problematic behavior from their children who are between the ages of 2 and 7.
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Parts Work Therapy, and PCIT.
I work with a variety of clients, ranging in age from 2 years old through late 20s and early 30s. My hope is that I can help individuals and families learn more effective ways to respond to challenges in their lives that may come from things such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to large changes. PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy), in particular, is an approach that I specialize in. PCIT is focused on helping caregivers learn effective ways to address problematic behavior from their children who are between the ages of 2 and 7.
(412) 891-6875 View (412) 891-6875
Photo of Sheila Milnes, MSc, MA, NPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila Milnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, MA, NPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Accenting new clients Fall 2024. Afterschool and Weekend Appointments Available, UPMC, Highmark, Optum, Aetna insurance. These are tough times for children and the parents who love them. One in six American children are struggling with mental health issues. You may feel worried about your child and unsure of what to do to help. Unfortunately, children don’t have the ability to tell us what is wrong. They tell us with their behavior. I specialize exclusively in the treatment of children, and have 40 years of experience learning to understand them and how best to help.
Accenting new clients Fall 2024. Afterschool and Weekend Appointments Available, UPMC, Highmark, Optum, Aetna insurance. These are tough times for children and the parents who love them. One in six American children are struggling with mental health issues. You may feel worried about your child and unsure of what to do to help. Unfortunately, children don’t have the ability to tell us what is wrong. They tell us with their behavior. I specialize exclusively in the treatment of children, and have 40 years of experience learning to understand them and how best to help.
(412) 838-4889 View (412) 838-4889
Photo of Mariellen Kerr, PhD, LPC, CSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariellen Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive- behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive- behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
(412) 891-6906 View (412) 891-6906
Photo of Vanessa Talkington Michael - Psychological Perspectives LLC, Psychologist
Psychological Perspectives LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
We assess concerns for social, emotional, and behavioral health needs.
We are now accepting new therapy clients with daytime availability! Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
We assess concerns for social, emotional, and behavioral health needs.
We are now accepting new therapy clients with daytime availability! Psychological Perspectives LLC is a group private practice located in Pleasant Hills, right off of Route 51. We are comprised of licensed psychologists, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Woker (LCSW) and doctoral trainees. The focus of the practice is to provide a safe and supportive environment to address treatment issues, along with building a positive and caring therapeutic relationship.
(412) 275-6939 View (412) 275-6939
Photo of Jodi Affuso, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jodi Affuso
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
Jodi is a Master’s level clinician in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is LGBTQ+ allied, gender affirming, trauma informed, and dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere for all clients. Jodi draws from a variety of techniques in her client-centered approach. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma and solution-based approaches help her connect with clients where they are now, in order to help them get to where they want to be.
Jodi is a Master’s level clinician in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is LGBTQ+ allied, gender affirming, trauma informed, and dedicated to creating a safe atmosphere for all clients. Jodi draws from a variety of techniques in her client-centered approach. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma and solution-based approaches help her connect with clients where they are now, in order to help them get to where they want to be.
(412) 990-1628 View (412) 990-1628
Photo of Rachel Hill, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Rachel utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy.
Rachel Hill is a Pre-Licensed Therapist, who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to help them become the best version of themselves. She has experience working with a wide range of mental health issues and daily life stressors. These experiences include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anger, and ADHD. Rachel specializes in depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, anger, grief, and stress.
Rachel utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy.
Rachel Hill is a Pre-Licensed Therapist, who is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to help them become the best version of themselves. She has experience working with a wide range of mental health issues and daily life stressors. These experiences include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anger, and ADHD. Rachel specializes in depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, anger, grief, and stress.
(412) 896-7941 View (412) 896-7941
Photo of Charles H Kuhn - Charles H Kuhn, LCSW, BCD, LCSW, BCD, DAPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles H Kuhn, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, DAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238  (Online Only)
Often emotional or behavioral problems emerge as a symptom of an underlying family problem.
I offer effective help for life's problems in a pleasant and discreet private practice setting. Communication and conflict resolution training for couples is a special area of concentration. I provide psychotherapy for people with angry, fearful, depressed and anxious moods; obsessive thoughts; impulsive behavior, adult or child attention deficits; posttraumatic stress and other common problems. Adults, adolescents and children are seen individually, in couples or in family sessions during convenient evening and weekend hours by appointment. I help couples to improve their ability to communicate with each other and reduce conflicts.
Often emotional or behavioral problems emerge as a symptom of an underlying family problem.
I offer effective help for life's problems in a pleasant and discreet private practice setting. Communication and conflict resolution training for couples is a special area of concentration. I provide psychotherapy for people with angry, fearful, depressed and anxious moods; obsessive thoughts; impulsive behavior, adult or child attention deficits; posttraumatic stress and other common problems. Adults, adolescents and children are seen individually, in couples or in family sessions during convenient evening and weekend hours by appointment. I help couples to improve their ability to communicate with each other and reduce conflicts.
(412) 567-3258 View (412) 567-3258
Photo of Christine Lynn Sheffey - Sheffey Consultants LLC, MSW, BCBA
Sheffey Consultants LLC
MSW, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I provide consulting, behavior modification and therapy that is grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and evidence-based practice.
I have over 21 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults impacted by autism, developmental disabilities, and/or behavioral health needs. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and specialize in individual and family therapy.
I provide consulting, behavior modification and therapy that is grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and evidence-based practice.
I have over 21 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults impacted by autism, developmental disabilities, and/or behavioral health needs. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and specialize in individual and family therapy.
(412) 278-7762 View (412) 278-7762
Photo of Sara Rothstein, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Rothstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I use a holistic, client-centered approach, drawing on behavioral, interpretive and solution-focused models to improve your life.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don’t leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office – whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
I use a holistic, client-centered approach, drawing on behavioral, interpretive and solution-focused models to improve your life.
Raising children is a fulfilling and puzzling part of our lives. From that first day we meet our new baby, a world of hope, wishes, and new possibilities begin. Parents don’t leave the hospital with a guidebook on how to address every bump and hurdle along the way. Children are unique, complex, and exciting. Sometimes however, they also need extra support. In my therapeutic work, I partner with you to understand the needs of your family and that of your child. Together we explore the concerns which bring you into my office – whether trauma, adjustment, anxiety, school related concerns, or behavioral challenges.
(412) 516-3389 View (412) 516-3389
Photo of Liana Scalise, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liana Scalise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I’m certified in Eco Systemic Structural Family Therapy, a modality that helps children and families who experience behavioral and relationship challenges find healthier ways to interact and communicate.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.
I’m certified in Eco Systemic Structural Family Therapy, a modality that helps children and families who experience behavioral and relationship challenges find healthier ways to interact and communicate.
I have over two decades of experience working within various community mental health settings helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health needs. I create a goal-oriented treatment for those experiencing, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intrapersonal conflict, relationship and communication issues, childhood trauma, stressful events, life transitions, and parenting needs.
(717) 915-5883 View (717) 915-5883
Photo of Brent W Hansen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brent W Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I have experience helping children and adults facing numerous emotional and behavioral challenges.
Is something keeping you from being your best? We all have great value and the ability to achieve great things. Sometimes, the burdens of this life, including past trouble, negative thinking/emotions, difficult circumstances, poor choices and lack of support can hold us back from reaching our potential. I believe my role as a counselor is to help others be more aware of their own strengths and abilities, so they can set and achieve positive goals. I believe in welcoming people with unconditional acceptance and support, and helping them work through difficulty to build and execute a plan to become the best version of themselves.
I have experience helping children and adults facing numerous emotional and behavioral challenges.
Is something keeping you from being your best? We all have great value and the ability to achieve great things. Sometimes, the burdens of this life, including past trouble, negative thinking/emotions, difficult circumstances, poor choices and lack of support can hold us back from reaching our potential. I believe my role as a counselor is to help others be more aware of their own strengths and abilities, so they can set and achieve positive goals. I believe in welcoming people with unconditional acceptance and support, and helping them work through difficulty to build and execute a plan to become the best version of themselves.
(878) 205-0531 View (878) 205-0531
Photo of Molly Gordon, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I use evidence-based theories to help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma disorders, & general behavioral challenges.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and families to understand, accept, and overcome challenges related to their mental health. I support my clients and their families by collaborating every step of the way to process emotions, create attainable goals, learn new skills, and improve everyday behaviors and routines across home, school, and community environments.
I use evidence-based theories to help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma disorders, & general behavioral challenges.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and families to understand, accept, and overcome challenges related to their mental health. I support my clients and their families by collaborating every step of the way to process emotions, create attainable goals, learn new skills, and improve everyday behaviors and routines across home, school, and community environments.
(412) 275-5326 View (412) 275-5326
Photo of Molly Scott-Anthony, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Molly Scott-Anthony
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229
**Currently on leave. Please contact via website to be placed on the wait list/schedule upon return ** I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in work with children and their families. I am trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, an evidence-based therapy for young children between 2.5-7 exhibiting behavioral challenges such as aggression, negative attention-seeking behaviors, low self-esteem, and defiance. Many parents who enroll in PCIT express feelings of stress, frustration, and are overwhelmed by attempts to manage their child's behavior while maintaining a positive relationship.
**Currently on leave. Please contact via website to be placed on the wait list/schedule upon return ** I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in work with children and their families. I am trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, an evidence-based therapy for young children between 2.5-7 exhibiting behavioral challenges such as aggression, negative attention-seeking behaviors, low self-esteem, and defiance. Many parents who enroll in PCIT express feelings of stress, frustration, and are overwhelmed by attempts to manage their child's behavior while maintaining a positive relationship.
(412) 328-2789 View (412) 328-2789
Photo of Howard P Dobrushin, LPC, CCPT, NCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Howard P Dobrushin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, CCPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Howard is trained in family therapy, Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and group therapy.
Howard has been a providing psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and consultation to mental health and developmentally disabled populations since 1973. He has also directed both adult and children's partial hospital programs for consumers from the ages of 4-60+.
Howard is trained in family therapy, Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and group therapy.
Howard has been a providing psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and consultation to mental health and developmentally disabled populations since 1973. He has also directed both adult and children's partial hospital programs for consumers from the ages of 4-60+.
(878) 201-6742 View (878) 201-6742
Photo of Jenna Mates, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenna Mates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience implementing behavioral approaches.
I work with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with managing their emotional, behavioral, and social needs. I know that therapy can be initially uncomfortable and/or anxiety provoking, yet I create a safe and supportive space for my patients. The therapeutic relationship is extremely important in my practice, as I believe that we need to work together in order to meet your goals. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, schools, and other medical professionals. I utilize various approaches and interventions to target each individual's needs and to create the best treatment for you.
I have extensive experience implementing behavioral approaches.
I work with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with managing their emotional, behavioral, and social needs. I know that therapy can be initially uncomfortable and/or anxiety provoking, yet I create a safe and supportive space for my patients. The therapeutic relationship is extremely important in my practice, as I believe that we need to work together in order to meet your goals. Additionally, I collaborate with parents, schools, and other medical professionals. I utilize various approaches and interventions to target each individual's needs and to create the best treatment for you.
(412) 784-6218 View (412) 784-6218
Photo of Monica Waitkus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Waitkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
Depending on your personalized needs, I may incorporate the following treatment modalities into the therapeutic process: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Focused treatment.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
(412) 528-6365 View (412) 528-6365
Photo of Karen J Stickel - Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD, LCSW, BCD, FAPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen J Stickel, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Issues of concern include mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, marital difficulties, communication problems, child/adolescent behavior, bereavement and emotional trauma, among others.
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
Issues of concern include mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, marital difficulties, communication problems, child/adolescent behavior, bereavement and emotional trauma, among others.
We all deal with changes. Change is inevitable in our lives and you can either manage change and shape it to your advantage, or let those changes manage and shape you. We have the abilities to cope with the changes in our lives. Sometimes we don't realize that we can and feel overwhelmed in dealing with stress. At other times we find ourselves in unexpected or extreme situations for which our normal coping skills are inadequate. Whatever the sources of your stress, the result could be anxious or depressed moods, panic attacks and more.
(412) 214-8785 View (412) 214-8785
Photo of Paige Malnofsky, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Malnofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
(412) 419-3421 View (412) 419-3421
Photo of Margaret Christopher, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Christopher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
After several years of working in the mental and behavioral health areas, I added a public health specialization that focused on practice in health care.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
After several years of working in the mental and behavioral health areas, I added a public health specialization that focused on practice in health care.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
(724) 227-0660 View (724) 227-0660
Photo of Maureen Finnegan Gebler, LCSW, MSW, ACSW, CSAT, CPTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Finnegan Gebler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, ACSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
"Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how'."--Victor Frankl I offer a private and confidential space for individuals to join me in removing walls that separate themselves from others. I treat a wide range of issues, including grief, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, spiritual crises, infidelity, sexual compulsivity behavior and betrayed partner trauma. I provide an atmosphere with no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions. I embrace a non-judgmental approach which facilitates the healing process.
"Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how'."--Victor Frankl I offer a private and confidential space for individuals to join me in removing walls that separate themselves from others. I treat a wide range of issues, including grief, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, spiritual crises, infidelity, sexual compulsivity behavior and betrayed partner trauma. I provide an atmosphere with no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions. I embrace a non-judgmental approach which facilitates the healing process.
(412) 906-9238 View (412) 906-9238
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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.