Parent Child Interaction Therapy

What is PCIT?

  • PCIT is conducted through “coaching” sessions during which the Caregiver and child are observed by a trained Clinician during their in the moment interactions.
  • The therapist provides feedback and coaching on skills identified and practiced to better manage the child’s behavior.
  • PCIT is done across two treatment phases – CDI (Child Directed Interactions) and PDI (Parent Directed Interactions). The first phase of treatment focuses on establishing warmth in the relationship through learning and applying skills proven to help children feel calm, secure in their relationships with their parents, and good about themselves. The second phase of treatment will equip parents to manage the most challenging of behaviors while remaining confident, calm, and consistent in implementing discipline.  In this phase, children will learn to accept limits, comply with directions, respect house rules, and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public. ​