Behavioral Issues Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Katie Schmitten, CSWA, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Schmitten
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
(206) 593-3834 View (206) 593-3834
Photo of Jill A Forsberg, MA, CMHS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill A Forsberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMHS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for. I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
I believe Success in therapy is built on the strengths you have within. Whether you are a young child, a teen an adult or a family, I will work with you to find those strengths and use them to find the change you are looking for. I work with individuals and families on issues ranging from depression and anxiety, behavior problems, school problems, and family conflict. I work with families with children of all ages. Whether working individually or with a family, I approach clinical issues from a systemic point of view.
(206) 745-4178 View (206) 745-4178
Photo of Suzanne Murray, MA, BCBA, LBA
Suzanne Murray
MA, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I strongly believe in the holistic power of behavior analysis to help any individual or family identify their needs, create meaningful goals, and learn actionable methods to achieve those goals.
I specialize in working with children diagnosed with autism, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and those needing support with emotion regulation. I provide 1:1 child behavioral therapy in the office, home, or school setting as well as parent coaching. Issues addressed may include: behavioral challenges, social skills, attention/focus, toilet training, bedtime routines, selective eating, and tantrum-type behavior. I also have extensive training in the application of behavior analysis to education including addressing special academic needs.
I strongly believe in the holistic power of behavior analysis to help any individual or family identify their needs, create meaningful goals, and learn actionable methods to achieve those goals.
I specialize in working with children diagnosed with autism, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and those needing support with emotion regulation. I provide 1:1 child behavioral therapy in the office, home, or school setting as well as parent coaching. Issues addressed may include: behavioral challenges, social skills, attention/focus, toilet training, bedtime routines, selective eating, and tantrum-type behavior. I also have extensive training in the application of behavior analysis to education including addressing special academic needs.
(206) 825-6693 View (206) 825-6693
Photo of Monica LaBrie - Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic approach to therapy which is heavily grounded in cognitive behavioral therapies such as mindfulness-based interventions and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
I use an eclectic approach to therapy which is heavily grounded in cognitive behavioral therapies such as mindfulness-based interventions and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
(509) 210-3700 View (509) 210-3700
Photo of Galen Kerrick, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Galen Kerrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Through evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I have worked with families and young children who have been impacted by trauma, LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, and people experiencing anxiety and depression.
I'm a big believer that we all want connection. In today's world, however, this can be increasingly difficult, and our sense of disconnection can manifest in numerous ways. Therefore the cornerstone of my work is building connection between myself and the person I work with. Through the container of this relationship, I aim to offer a warm and welcoming space to engage in curious self-reflection at your own pace, explore your thought and behavior patterns, and work towards your goals. And when we we can engage your own strengths and interests in the process, all the better!
Through evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I have worked with families and young children who have been impacted by trauma, LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, and people experiencing anxiety and depression.
I'm a big believer that we all want connection. In today's world, however, this can be increasingly difficult, and our sense of disconnection can manifest in numerous ways. Therefore the cornerstone of my work is building connection between myself and the person I work with. Through the container of this relationship, I aim to offer a warm and welcoming space to engage in curious self-reflection at your own pace, explore your thought and behavior patterns, and work towards your goals. And when we we can engage your own strengths and interests in the process, all the better!
(206) 823-0716 View (206) 823-0716
Stefanie Talmadge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse (all ages and genders, including adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse), gender identity, OCD, behavioral issues in children/teens, parent coaching and grief and loss.
I believe that every individual has the ability to make change, heal and grow. I will create a supportive environment where you will be heard, new skills can be learned and also practiced. My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based models, while allowing for the flexibility to individualize to best meet your needs. I want to make therapy work for you and know that no approach is perfect for everyone. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure, Mindfulness techniques and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Together we will decide what works for you.
(206) 207-4676 View (206) 207-4676
Photo of Jennifer Castillo- Wozniak, MS, NBCC, LMHC, LPC, ACS-NJ, Counselor
Jennifer Castillo- Wozniak
Counselor, MS, NBCC, LMHC, LPC, ACS-NJ
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
The focus of treatment will be to integrate mindfulness and behavioral therapy techniques.
I am a passionate clinician who sees each client as a person with individual needs, wants, and goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and direct. I have experience working with mood, adjustment and anxiety disorders, as well as co-occurring disorder and individuals struggling with interpersonal issues. In the counseling process, I strive to help each client find their own voice to communicate their thoughts and feelings about what they are experiencing on a day to day basis. The aim is that the counseling experience becomes one of comfort in expressing and reconstructing ones personal narrative.
The focus of treatment will be to integrate mindfulness and behavioral therapy techniques.
I am a passionate clinician who sees each client as a person with individual needs, wants, and goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and direct. I have experience working with mood, adjustment and anxiety disorders, as well as co-occurring disorder and individuals struggling with interpersonal issues. In the counseling process, I strive to help each client find their own voice to communicate their thoughts and feelings about what they are experiencing on a day to day basis. The aim is that the counseling experience becomes one of comfort in expressing and reconstructing ones personal narrative.
(206) 309-0710 View (206) 309-0710
Photo of Justice Stegall, LMHC, Counselor
Justice Stegall
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression and other co-morbid disorders, such as anxiety or other behavioral challenges? I can help you manage and overcome your symptoms using strategic and adaptive strategies. My goal is to empower you with practical skills that will help you feel comfortable with your thoughts and enhance your well-being. Let's work together to create a happier you !
Are you struggling with depression and other co-morbid disorders, such as anxiety or other behavioral challenges? I can help you manage and overcome your symptoms using strategic and adaptive strategies. My goal is to empower you with practical skills that will help you feel comfortable with your thoughts and enhance your well-being. Let's work together to create a happier you !
(425) 333-2160 View (425) 333-2160
Photo of Nancy E Cohen, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy E Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
ADULTS: I help adults in individual therapy - using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
ADULTS: I help adults in individual therapy - using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
(206) 329-1230 View (206) 329-1230
Photo of Dr. Chris Norris, LMHC, LPC, LAADC, LBA, BCBA, Counselor
Dr. Chris Norris
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LAADC, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178
I have built careers as an educator (K-12, and University), artist (IMDB & Actors Studio), and behavior based psychotherapist/counselor (Recovery Centers & Private).
As a LMHC and a LPC in WA and CO respectively, I use an integrated collaborative therapeutic approach to assess and support your journey in self-discovery and healing. As a internationally recognized Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a LBA in WA, I integrate the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to develop concrete observable and measurable treatment approaches built to support your desired change and growth. Are you struggling with an addiction disorder? As a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Addiction counselor, let’s create a viable attainable path to recovery together. Take that first step, reach out to me today.
I have built careers as an educator (K-12, and University), artist (IMDB & Actors Studio), and behavior based psychotherapist/counselor (Recovery Centers & Private).
As a LMHC and a LPC in WA and CO respectively, I use an integrated collaborative therapeutic approach to assess and support your journey in self-discovery and healing. As a internationally recognized Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a LBA in WA, I integrate the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to develop concrete observable and measurable treatment approaches built to support your desired change and growth. Are you struggling with an addiction disorder? As a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Addiction counselor, let’s create a viable attainable path to recovery together. Take that first step, reach out to me today.
(253) 400-2522 View (253) 400-2522
Photo of R. Corey Schmitt - R. Corey Schmitt, PsyD, Counseling, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
R. Corey Schmitt, PsyD, Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
We cannot separate our mind from our body and it is important to consider how biological, psychological, behavioral, and social factors impact our overall health.
I have a collaborative approach to counseling where I work with clients to help them identify areas for change and to make changes by setting specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-sensitive goals. To do this, I incorporate evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive- behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness meditation, and other modalities. Generally, this involves changing or adjusting our relationship to our thoughts and changing behaviors that negatively impact our functioning and get in the way of us living meaningful lives based on our values and what is important to us.
We cannot separate our mind from our body and it is important to consider how biological, psychological, behavioral, and social factors impact our overall health.
I have a collaborative approach to counseling where I work with clients to help them identify areas for change and to make changes by setting specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-sensitive goals. To do this, I incorporate evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive- behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness meditation, and other modalities. Generally, this involves changing or adjusting our relationship to our thoughts and changing behaviors that negatively impact our functioning and get in the way of us living meaningful lives based on our values and what is important to us.
(206) 737-3629 View (206) 737-3629
Photo of Kelly Egan, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Egan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I can work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues in a safe, comfortable, supportive atmosphere.
Hello! I am Kelly, a mental health therapist. My specialty is working with ADHD in adolescents and adults, as well as recently diagnosed adults. ADHD can have a crippling effect upon self esteem and general life functioning. I think ADHD is a gift and can allow us to operate and think in ways that can be very insightful. I have spent the last 4 years working in middle school, high schools and working with high level engineers and executives from major Seattle based companies with ADHD symptoms. ADHD comes in many packages, please allow me to assist in helping you to create a positive platform to launch from.
I can work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues in a safe, comfortable, supportive atmosphere.
Hello! I am Kelly, a mental health therapist. My specialty is working with ADHD in adolescents and adults, as well as recently diagnosed adults. ADHD can have a crippling effect upon self esteem and general life functioning. I think ADHD is a gift and can allow us to operate and think in ways that can be very insightful. I have spent the last 4 years working in middle school, high schools and working with high level engineers and executives from major Seattle based companies with ADHD symptoms. ADHD comes in many packages, please allow me to assist in helping you to create a positive platform to launch from.
(206) 984-2093 View (206) 984-2093
Photo of Andrei Dandescu - Andrei Dandescu Behavioral Care, LLC, MA, LMHC, CSOTP, Counselor
Andrei Dandescu Behavioral Care, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
The current focus is on time-effective cognitive- behavioral, psychosomatic and depth psychology approaches individually tailored for each patient.
The current focus is on time-effective cognitive- behavioral, psychosomatic and depth psychology approaches individually tailored for each patient.
(206) 557-3963 View (206) 557-3963
Photo of Madeline Frank, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Madeline Frank
PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I use positive behavior support strategies to support children, parents, and families with and without autism spectrum disorder.
My experience as a behavior analyst spans educational, clinical, and home/community settings. I worked for several years as a special education classroom teacher and I feel strongly that parent involvement/training is critical for a child's success. I aim to provide children and families with tools to rapidly improve language comprehension and vocalization, replace problem behaviors, teach self-help skills, and enhance age-appropriate social skills. I primarily work with children between 2-10 years old, but have experience working with clients up to 21 years old.
I use positive behavior support strategies to support children, parents, and families with and without autism spectrum disorder.
My experience as a behavior analyst spans educational, clinical, and home/community settings. I worked for several years as a special education classroom teacher and I feel strongly that parent involvement/training is critical for a child's success. I aim to provide children and families with tools to rapidly improve language comprehension and vocalization, replace problem behaviors, teach self-help skills, and enhance age-appropriate social skills. I primarily work with children between 2-10 years old, but have experience working with clients up to 21 years old.
(206) 312-6845 View (206) 312-6845
Photo of Stacey Haynes - Pacific Pediatric Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Pacific Pediatric Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Dr. Haynes has worked extensively with children and families, focusing both on pediatrics and the culturally-sensitive application of evidence-based psychology. She has been at Seattle Children's for more than 7 years and is presently in the Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dr. Haynes has extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, and other child and pediatric behavioral concerns. A primary objective of her integrative perspective is to understand negative reactions to stressors and appreciate adaptation, positive emotion, coping, resiliency, and wellbeing as a developmental process.
Dr. Haynes has worked extensively with children and families, focusing both on pediatrics and the culturally-sensitive application of evidence-based psychology. She has been at Seattle Children's for more than 7 years and is presently in the Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dr. Haynes has extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, and other child and pediatric behavioral concerns. A primary objective of her integrative perspective is to understand negative reactions to stressors and appreciate adaptation, positive emotion, coping, resiliency, and wellbeing as a developmental process.
(206) 984-1457 View (206) 984-1457
Photo of Vicki Keough, CHT, BHS
Vicki Keough
CHT, BHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
(206) 866-6227 View (206) 866-6227
Photo of Richard Packard, PhD, Psychologist
Richard Packard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I have several areas of particular expertise including sexual behavior problems, life crises, abuse, and neurodevelopmental problems.
With over 30 years of experience helping people with a wide variety of psychological problems, there's a very good chance I can help you, too. As a scientist-practitioner, my job is to bring the findings of psychological science to helping people with real-world problems. As such, it's important to keep a focus on what it is you're trying to change and then apply scientifically validated methods to help you reach your goals.
I have several areas of particular expertise including sexual behavior problems, life crises, abuse, and neurodevelopmental problems.
With over 30 years of experience helping people with a wide variety of psychological problems, there's a very good chance I can help you, too. As a scientist-practitioner, my job is to bring the findings of psychological science to helping people with real-world problems. As such, it's important to keep a focus on what it is you're trying to change and then apply scientifically validated methods to help you reach your goals.
(206) 535-1758 View (206) 535-1758
Photo of Michelle Anne Smith, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Anne Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I strive to create relationships based on acceptance in a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment and only utilize evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral and play therapies.
Even the most talkative child may not have the words to accurately and effectively communicate his/her/their emotions, experiences and needs. This can make a child feel frustrated, sad and misunderstood. As a result, some children may express themselves through aggressive behavior, impulsivity and defiance. Other children might direct their feelings inward and withdraw from social activities, become fearful or experience hopelessness and loneliness. Both externalizing and internalizing behaviors may lead to trouble concentrating, academic difficulties, somatic concerns (stomach aches and headaches) or changes in sleeping or eating.
I strive to create relationships based on acceptance in a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment and only utilize evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral and play therapies.
Even the most talkative child may not have the words to accurately and effectively communicate his/her/their emotions, experiences and needs. This can make a child feel frustrated, sad and misunderstood. As a result, some children may express themselves through aggressive behavior, impulsivity and defiance. Other children might direct their feelings inward and withdraw from social activities, become fearful or experience hopelessness and loneliness. Both externalizing and internalizing behaviors may lead to trouble concentrating, academic difficulties, somatic concerns (stomach aches and headaches) or changes in sleeping or eating.
(206) 258-7377 View (206) 258-7377
Photo of Andy Park - Andy Park, PLLC, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Andy Park, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98199
I am licensed in Washington and since 2015 have been specializing in treating children, adolescents, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and adjustments to unexpected life changes.
Throughout life's most interesting or challenging journeys, it is helpful to walk with and share your experiences with someone. I would love to work with you and your family! My goal is to provide an environment of safety, trust and respect, where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
I am licensed in Washington and since 2015 have been specializing in treating children, adolescents, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and adjustments to unexpected life changes.
Throughout life's most interesting or challenging journeys, it is helpful to walk with and share your experiences with someone. I would love to work with you and your family! My goal is to provide an environment of safety, trust and respect, where you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.
(425) 640-7009 x1 View (425) 640-7009 x1
Photo of Kirsten Jensen, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kirsten Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
You and your children develop healthy communication patterns that address your concerns and behavior issues, while helping your family connect in a warm, genuine way.
You’ve already tried the parenting tools you know, and the strategies you learned from a class or a book aren't working. I help parents use connection rather than control to create the relationship they want with their kids. Your children's anxiety diminishes and their behavior improves as they feel your warm connection. Enjoy more peace in your home, and more confidence as you shape your family culture. Together, we work to help you build confidence in your parenting and add playfulness and laughter back into your home. Get the support you deserve, and fill your own tank in the process.
You and your children develop healthy communication patterns that address your concerns and behavior issues, while helping your family connect in a warm, genuine way.
You’ve already tried the parenting tools you know, and the strategies you learned from a class or a book aren't working. I help parents use connection rather than control to create the relationship they want with their kids. Your children's anxiety diminishes and their behavior improves as they feel your warm connection. Enjoy more peace in your home, and more confidence as you shape your family culture. Together, we work to help you build confidence in your parenting and add playfulness and laughter back into your home. Get the support you deserve, and fill your own tank in the process.
(206) 899-4109 View (206) 899-4109
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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.