Parent-Child Interaction Training (PCIT)

Parent-Child Interaction Training (PCIT) is designed to decrease oppositional and aggressive behaviors among children. This therapeutic approach uses direct coaching to help parents modify their child's behavior. A psychologist observing the parent-child interaction from an adjoining room prompts parents unobtrusively, using a tiny wireless earbug receiver.

Who Benefits

PCIT is most effective for children 2 to 7 years of age. It can be used for a variety of presenting problems, including verbal and physical aggression, inattention, overactivity, low self-esteem, anxiety, and parent-child relationship problems stemming from divorce or adoption. Children and parents experiencing these situations are likely to benefit from PCIT.

Commitment

Parents need to be present for the intake session, training sessions, and therapy sessions as well as various feedback meetings. Children need to be present for the intake session and the 10 direct therapy sessions (some children will need fewer sessions).

Cost

The fee for PCIT is $600. This fee includes a one-hour intake session (which consists of interviews and the completion of questionnaires); 2 one-hour parent-training sessions, 10 one-hour therapy sessions, and feedback from the psychologist. A sliding scale (based upon household income) is used to determine the cost of PCIT. In some cases, the PCIT will be provided free of charge.