How We Treat
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
PCIT is an evidence-based treatment that combines components of attachment, social learning, developmental and behavioral theories.
The ultimate goal of PCIT is to enhance the parent-child relationship by helping caregivers learn ways to relate to their children warmly while also having a predictable and consistent strategy to manage undesired behaviors through limit setting.
Who PCIT Serves
PCIT is designed for families whose children (ages 2 through 7) are experiencing:
- difficulty listening
- difficulty following directions
- regulating emotions
- frequent temper tantrums
- constantly seeking attention
- hyperactivity
PCIT/First Phase
The first phase, Child Directed Interaction (CDI), seeks to strengthen the relationship between parent and child. In CDI parents are introduced to child-centered interactions through the use of PRIDE skills. The PRIDE skills enhance the parent child relationship by incorporating positive communication, praise and side by side child-led play.
PCIT/Second Phase
Once a parent has mastered the PRIDE skills in CDI, parents move into the second phase of treatment, Parent Directed Interaction therapy (PDI). In PDI, parents learn strategies to manage undesired behaviors in their child. Parents will learn how to give effective commands and develop a consistent and predictable time-out routine to decrease undesired behaviors.
How we offer PCIT
Currently, CCG provides PCIT via tele-health. PCIT lends itself to virtual sessions effectively as it allows the therapist to observe the parent-child interactions in their natural environment. PCIT services should only be delivered by Certified PCIT clinicians. The average length of treatment is 12-20 weeks. Many parents begin to see changes in the first phase of treatment. Each phase of PCIT consists of didactic teaching sessions, where caregivers meet with the therapist and are taught the skills of that phase. Teaching phases are then followed by coaching sessions where therapists use a variety of techniques to provide in the moment coaching of skills until mastery is achieved.
FAQs
How do I know if PCIT is the right fit for my child and family?
PCIT may be a good fit if your child shows challenging behaviors such as frequent temper tantrums, defiance or refusing directions, aggression, hyperactivity, or difficulties at preschool or school. If such behaviors are creating stress in daily life or affecting relationships, PCIT could help. A trained PCIT therapist can assess your child’s needs and determine if this treatment is appropriate.
What ages is PCIT appropriate for?
The core age range for PCIT is 2 to 7 years old. Adaptations exist for older children or younger toddlers in certain cases.
How long does PCIT treatment take?
Treatment length typically ranges from about 12 to 20 weekly sessions. Some families may complete it in less time, others may need more, depending on the severity of behavior, consistency of attendance, and how quickly parents learn and apply the parenting skills.
What happens during a PCIT session?
In PCIT sessions, the parent and child interact while a therapist observes. The therapist provides live coaching to the parent—either through a “bug in the ear,” behind a mirror, or via telehealth—to help guide positive behaviors, set clear instructions, and manage misbehavior. Sessions include two phases:
Child-Directed Interaction (CDI): focus on building warmth, positive communication, follow the child’s lead, using PRIDE skills (Praise, Reflection, Imitation, Description, Enjoyment).
Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI): focus on discipline strategies, giving effective commands, consistent consequences for misbehavior.
What are the PRIDE skills in PCIT?
PRIDE stands for Praise, Reflection, Imitation, Description, Enjoyment. These are skills parents learn and practice in the CDI phase to foster positive interaction, strengthen the relationship, and reduce negative behaviors.
Can PCIT be done via telehealth, or does it have to be in person?
Yes—PCIT can be delivered via telehealth. Clinicians have adapted the live coaching model so parents can receive guidance remotely, using video and audio tools. Telehealth PCIT has been shown to be effective when done properly.
What kinds of results or outcomes can families expect from PCIT?
Families who complete PCIT often experience reduced disruptive behaviors, improved compliance, stronger parent-child relationships, and reduced parenting stress. Changes tend to persist after therapy ends. Skills learned are designed to be used in everyday life.
What if my child has other challenges (e.g., ADHD, trauma, anxiety)? Can PCIT still help?
Yes. PCIT has been adapted and shown effective for children who have co-occurring issues such as ADHD, anxiety, trauma histories, or other developmental challenges. A therapist can tailor certain parts of the therapy to meet those additional needs.
Resources
If you are interested in learning more about PCIT, below are some helpful resources of this evidenced-based treatment model:
https://www.pcit.org/what-is-pcit.html
https://www.nctsn.org/interventions/parent-child-interaction-therapy“