Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps families build stronger relationships while reducing children’s challenging behaviors. Through parent-child sessions with live coaching, parents learn effective skills that encourage cooperative behaviors, better listening skills, and emotional regulation.
ADHD & BEHAVIOR DISORDERS CENTER
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Live coaching during parent-child sessions to improve cooperation, listening, and emotional regulation.
Interested in Learning More?
Please submit our interest form or call us at 212.308.3118.
What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)?
Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based therapy designed for children ages 2–7 and their caregivers. PCIT helps families build stronger relationships while reducing children’s challenging behaviors. Through parent-child sessions with live coaching, parents learn effective skills that encourage cooperative behaviors, better listening skills, and emotional regulation.
Families don’t need to know which service is right for their child before reaching out. Fill out our Request Appointment form, and our team will contact you to find the best fit.
About Our Treatment
PCIT allows parents to practice new skills in the moment while receiving immediate support and feedback. Most families attend 14–17 weekly sessions, though the length of treatment varies depending on each family’s needs. PCIT can be delivered either in person or through telehealth. Virtual PCIT brings expert coaching directly into the home, allowing families to practice skills within their everyday routines and environment. Research has shown that virtual PCIT produces outcomes comparable to in-person treatment while offering greater convenience and accessibility for many families.
Parents learn research-backed skills that help them:
- Reduce behavior problems and stress at home
- Feel more confident in their parenting skills and strengthen the parent-child relationship
How PCIT Works
PCIT uses a unique live coaching model.
During sessions, your child plays with you in a therapy room or at home and a therapist observes through a one-way mirror or telehealth screen. Then, the therapist gives you real-time guidance through a small earpiece.
PCIT supports children ages 2–7 who need help with any or all of the following:
- Frequently refuse or defy adult requests
- Lose their temper easily and frequently
- Display aggressive or disruptive behaviors
- Experience relationship difficulties at home and school/childcare
Why This Service?
Practice in Real Time
Parents learn skills quickly because they practice with their child during the session.
Supportive Guidance
Therapists provide caring, step-by-step coaching.
Confidence Building
Parents gain confidence as they see their child respond positively to the new skills.
Our Team
Angela Breidenstine, PhD
Senior Psychologist, ADHD and Behavior, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders Centers
Hannah Cooper, PhD
Psychological Associate, Anxiety Disorders Center, Mood Disorders Center
Larisa (Lara) Litvinov, PhD
Director, Senior Psychologist, ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center
Tiffany Phu, PhD
Psychologist, Gund Learning and Diagnostic Center, ADHD and Behavior Disorder Center
Kristen Wolf, LMHC
Senior Licensed Mental Health Counselor, ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center
Frequently Asked Questions
PCIT supports children ages 2–7 who need help with any or all of the following:
- Frequently refuse or defy adult requests
- Lose their temper easily and frequently
- Display aggressive or disruptive behaviors
- Experience relationship difficulties at home and school/childcare
Parents learn research-backed skills that help them:
- Reduce behavior problems and stress at home
- Feel more confident in their parenting skills and strengthen the parent-child relationship
You don’t need to know before reaching out. After you submit our Request Appointment form, our team will learn about your child and recommend the treatment, program, or level of support that best meets their needs.
Ready to Get Started?
Please submit our interest form or call us at 212.308.3118.
More ADHD Treatments & Services
Our ADHD & Behavior Disorders Center also offers the following specialized group treatment programs and services.
Summer Program
Help your child build confidence, friendships, and real-life skills in our highly structured, expert-led program. Ages 5–10.
After-School Groups & Booster Program
Helping children strengthen self-regulation, social skills, and classroom behavior.
Intensive Behavior Treatment
Specialized behavioral treatment for children with severe symptoms or families traveling long distances.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Request an appointment at the Child Mind Institute to get your child evaluated by one of our expert clinicians today.
