Raising children has its ups and downs.
If having a child is such a blessing, why does it sometimes feel like a punishment?
The temper tantrums, the not listening, and the constant calls from the school can all leave you feeling frustrated, exhausted, and unsure about what to do next.
The feelings of failure (as a parent) set in; you feel discouraged and hopeless about whether you can ever make a difference.
Playtime with your child is no longer enjoyable, and you now dread it – leaving you feeling frustrated, guilty, and confused about what to do.
But here’s the good news.
You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. The design of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) helps you and your child develop a stronger, more positive relationship while addressing and improving seemingly impossible behaviors. And best of all, you do this virtually, allowing you to access support from your home.
PCIT is an evidence-based treatment for young children (2-7 years old) with emotional and behavioral difficulties. It involves coaching parents in real-time interactions with their children, teaching them effective techniques to improve behavior and enhance the parent-child relationship.
As a Certified PCIT provider, I help you and your child communicate better and develop healthier, more positive interactions. This structured approach focuses on improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and changing ineffective interaction patterns.
But wait, what about Play Therapy?
You ask, “Isn’t my child the one who needs help?”
Well, while I do love play therapy and have seen it work wonders with former clients, I find PCIT works best to address behavioral problems (and research says so, too).
I will teach you some play therapy skills so you can use them with your child.
Here’s how PCIT works.
Our work will begin with a comprehensive initial assessment to understand your child’s behavior, parenting style, and relationship dynamics. This assessment helps us set specific, achievable goals.
You’ll learn techniques to increase positive interactions with your child, including praising good behavior, reflecting on your child’s words to show understanding, and imitating their play to build connection. Then, I’ll coach you while you interact with your child. This real-time coaching provides immediate feedback and helps you apply new skills effectively and confidently.
We’ll work on strategies to address, manage, and reduce challenging behaviors. This approach includes setting clear expectations, consistently enforcing consequences, and using calm, firm commands. Building consistency is vital in PCIT. Therefore, we’ll focus on helping you implement these techniques consistently at home, ensuring lasting changes in your child’s behavior.
Our goal is to strengthen the Parent-Child Relationship. By improving your interactions, you’ll build a stronger, more positive relationship with your child. This foundation of trust and respect makes it easier to manage behavior and enhances your overall family dynamic.
Start building a stronger relationship.
Extensive research supports the effectiveness of PCIT, which has a proven track record for improving child behavior, reducing parenting stress, and strengthening the parent-child relationship.
The skills you learn are practical, effective, and tailored to your unique situation.
You don’t have to face parenting challenges alone. PCIT provides the tools and support to improve your child’s behavior and build a more positive, rewarding relationship.
Contact me for more information on how PCIT can enhance the relationship between you and your child.