Photo of Linda W. Melnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Linda W. Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
Work areas include anxiety/depression, behavioral problems at school and/or home, parenting, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, work related issues, separation/divorce, trauma, abuse.
Life changes quickly, and we all hit speed bumps that stop or slow us down. Social and academic crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions are some of the challenges my clients face. I see children 11 years and up, adolescents, families and adults, and offer a safe, supportive environment for clients to find options. I work to help clients build and deepen healthy connections within families, fine tune or learn new skills, and increase confidence. My approach is direct, respectful, collaborative. I listen closely to help build an individual plan.
Work areas include anxiety/depression, behavioral problems at school and/or home, parenting, relationship issues, interpersonal skills, work related issues, separation/divorce, trauma, abuse.
Life changes quickly, and we all hit speed bumps that stop or slow us down. Social and academic crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions are some of the challenges my clients face. I see children 11 years and up, adolescents, families and adults, and offer a safe, supportive environment for clients to find options. I work to help clients build and deepen healthy connections within families, fine tune or learn new skills, and increase confidence. My approach is direct, respectful, collaborative. I listen closely to help build an individual plan.
(512) 861-8467 View (512) 861-8467
Photo of Albert Bellard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Albert Bellard, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
My work is primarily informed by Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Reality Oriented theoretical orientations, and Mindfulness based concepts and practices.
Hi and thanks for checking out my Psychology Today profile.... I've worked for 35 years as a psychotherapist in the Austin area . My approach to my work is inclusive of mindfulness, compassion, graciousness and humility, always respectful of the notion that the client is ultimately the expert on and the decision maker for his/her life. Please visit my website for more about me and my work. All the best to you!
My work is primarily informed by Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Reality Oriented theoretical orientations, and Mindfulness based concepts and practices.
Hi and thanks for checking out my Psychology Today profile.... I've worked for 35 years as a psychotherapist in the Austin area . My approach to my work is inclusive of mindfulness, compassion, graciousness and humility, always respectful of the notion that the client is ultimately the expert on and the decision maker for his/her life. Please visit my website for more about me and my work. All the best to you!
(512) 523-4823 View (512) 523-4823
Photo of Jennifer Willoughby Sear, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Austin, TX
Jennifer Willoughby Sear
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Did you know that being skilled at setting boundaries actually brings your loved ones closer and can significantly improve all your interpersonal relationships? Our problems often stem from behavior that is self-protective. We may have learned ways to avoid emotional pain, disappointment, and grief, but sometimes those protective behaviors become roadblocks to personal growth. Perhaps we have unconsciously decided that living with the problems we already know seems safer than approaching the changes that will help us heal and move forward.
Did you know that being skilled at setting boundaries actually brings your loved ones closer and can significantly improve all your interpersonal relationships? Our problems often stem from behavior that is self-protective. We may have learned ways to avoid emotional pain, disappointment, and grief, but sometimes those protective behaviors become roadblocks to personal growth. Perhaps we have unconsciously decided that living with the problems we already know seems safer than approaching the changes that will help us heal and move forward.
(512) 675-5914 View (512) 675-5914
Photo of Deb Burkhardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Deb Burkhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78751  (Online Only)
I work from a relational, attachment-based perspective, helping clients create change through the recognition and dismantling of behavioral patterns that may be holding them back from living authentically.
Realizing our own needs for acceptance and validation can be hard, especially when we have not been taught to ask for them ourselves. If you feel like you are bursting at the seams with new ideas but don't know where to start or are feeling pressured by new life transitions or impending crises, therapy may be a helpful place to lay your cards on the table and decide the next step.
I work from a relational, attachment-based perspective, helping clients create change through the recognition and dismantling of behavioral patterns that may be holding them back from living authentically.
Realizing our own needs for acceptance and validation can be hard, especially when we have not been taught to ask for them ourselves. If you feel like you are bursting at the seams with new ideas but don't know where to start or are feeling pressured by new life transitions or impending crises, therapy may be a helpful place to lay your cards on the table and decide the next step.
(512) 890-0413 View (512) 890-0413
Photo of Gloria Gitlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Gloria Gitlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78744
In counseling, we will consider your thoughts, beliefs, feelings, current relationships, past relationships, activities, behavior, feelings about others in your circle, etc.
Hello, I am Gloria Gitlin, a licensed professional counselor with forty-two years of clinical experience. I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are facing Behavioral Issues, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Anxiety, and many more. I use a mix of ACT, Adlerian, Christian Counseling, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, CPT, Compassion Focused, Couples Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, EFT, Family Systems, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Interpersonal, Jungian, MBCT, Intervention, and many more. I believe I could help others in distress and give peace in their situations.
In counseling, we will consider your thoughts, beliefs, feelings, current relationships, past relationships, activities, behavior, feelings about others in your circle, etc.
Hello, I am Gloria Gitlin, a licensed professional counselor with forty-two years of clinical experience. I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are facing Behavioral Issues, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Anxiety, and many more. I use a mix of ACT, Adlerian, Christian Counseling, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, CPT, Compassion Focused, Couples Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, EFT, Family Systems, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Interpersonal, Jungian, MBCT, Intervention, and many more. I believe I could help others in distress and give peace in their situations.
(430) 213-4241 View (430) 213-4241
Photo of Kayla Corazao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Kayla Corazao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Change is hard, not having the tools, direction, and support make the process even harder. I can help you identify areas that may be keeping you stuck. I also provide wellness and behavioral health coaching in addition to traditional therapy.
Change is hard, not having the tools, direction, and support make the process even harder. I can help you identify areas that may be keeping you stuck. I also provide wellness and behavioral health coaching in addition to traditional therapy.
(619) 304-9155 View (619) 304-9155
Photo of San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Austin, TX 73301
San Antonio Counseling & Behavioral Center provides psychotherapy services to all age groups. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for children, adolescents, adults and families through exceptional and discreet mental health counseling.
San Antonio Counseling & Behavioral Center provides psychotherapy services to all age groups. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for children, adolescents, adults and families through exceptional and discreet mental health counseling.
(210) 625-8034 View (210) 625-8034
Photo of Taneka Patrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Taneka Patrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Social Worker, educator and behavior health consultant.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Are you feeling down or overwhelmed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you need help with identifying appropriate life goals; developing effective coping skills; improving stress; alleviating depressive symptoms or embracing life. People enter counseling for many reasons, from anxiety, stress, mental health fitness, depression, trauma and grief. Still others are curious to discover more about themselves and keen to enrich their relationships and inner lives. Whatever your circumstances, counseling can be the first step in an empowering journey of self-awareness and change.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, educator and behavior health consultant.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Are you feeling down or overwhelmed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you need help with identifying appropriate life goals; developing effective coping skills; improving stress; alleviating depressive symptoms or embracing life. People enter counseling for many reasons, from anxiety, stress, mental health fitness, depression, trauma and grief. Still others are curious to discover more about themselves and keen to enrich their relationships and inner lives. Whatever your circumstances, counseling can be the first step in an empowering journey of self-awareness and change.
(254) 271-3359 View (254) 271-3359
Photo of Shilpa Mutyala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Shilpa Mutyala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78729
It is typically a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, talk-therapy and mindfulness components.
Welcome to Thriving Heart Therapy! I specialize in working with children, teens and young adults. I have a client-centered approach employing compassion, warmth and collaboration. If you or your child are struggling with navigating the hills of life, having an experienced, competent therapist is the first step! For young children and teens we will use creativity to identify goals and strategies in a safe, nonjudgmental space. For very young ones (3-6), a play therapy approach is used. I also enjoy helping Southeast Asian- American families with the challenges that come with acculturation.
It is typically a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, talk-therapy and mindfulness components.
Welcome to Thriving Heart Therapy! I specialize in working with children, teens and young adults. I have a client-centered approach employing compassion, warmth and collaboration. If you or your child are struggling with navigating the hills of life, having an experienced, competent therapist is the first step! For young children and teens we will use creativity to identify goals and strategies in a safe, nonjudgmental space. For very young ones (3-6), a play therapy approach is used. I also enjoy helping Southeast Asian- American families with the challenges that come with acculturation.
(512) 359-3836 View (512) 359-3836
Photo of Courtney Guess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Courtney Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Im a Certified EMDR therapist and also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
Im a Certified EMDR therapist and also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
(512) 730-0181 View (512) 730-0181
Photo of Jenna L. Steen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Jenna L. Steen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons. Perhaps you struggle with unwanted behavior patterns or difficulties in your relationships. Maybe you’re challenged by overwhelming emotions or struggle to know what you’re feeling at all. Or maybe you’re having trouble adjusting to new circumstances or making a big decision. These problems in living and many others may respond well to psychotherapy.
People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons. Perhaps you struggle with unwanted behavior patterns or difficulties in your relationships. Maybe you’re challenged by overwhelming emotions or struggle to know what you’re feeling at all. Or maybe you’re having trouble adjusting to new circumstances or making a big decision. These problems in living and many others may respond well to psychotherapy.
(512) 518-4765 View (512) 518-4765
Photo of Tiffany Deer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Tiffany Deer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I enjoy guiding clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and many other evidenced based practices.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or disconnected? Therapy offers safe space to show up authentically, and build greater self-awareness and acceptance. Therapy can help give you a vision and the necessary tools to move from living to thriving. I want to help you thrive! I focus on creating a warm, nonjudgmental environment to work through current challenges and long-standing issues. I listen to each client's specific needs and tailor the therapeutic process to provide the most beneficial, effective, and enjoyable experience possible. We work together so that you can achieve personal growth, and a happier you!
I enjoy guiding clients in effective therapeutic exercises integrated from Cognitive Behavior Therapy and many other evidenced based practices.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or disconnected? Therapy offers safe space to show up authentically, and build greater self-awareness and acceptance. Therapy can help give you a vision and the necessary tools to move from living to thriving. I want to help you thrive! I focus on creating a warm, nonjudgmental environment to work through current challenges and long-standing issues. I listen to each client's specific needs and tailor the therapeutic process to provide the most beneficial, effective, and enjoyable experience possible. We work together so that you can achieve personal growth, and a happier you!
(512) 222-9166 View (512) 222-9166
Photo of Michelle Zadrozny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Michelle Zadrozny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EAS-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78717
I have extensive experience providing intensive care management for adults with severe mental/behavioral health diagnoses, including co-occurring substance abuse issues.
Are you having trouble letting go of painful and unhelpful patterns? Feeling a vague sense of 'now what?' or even more debilitating anxious feelings? Perhaps you are a loving and supportive parent who has reached your limit and don't know where to turn to support your struggling, adult child. My passion is helping adults of every age navigate through life's inevitable transitions. I will help you uncover the underlying issues keeping you from moving forward, and help you to process complicated feelings while creating a plan to live more authentically and aligned with your soul's purpose.
I have extensive experience providing intensive care management for adults with severe mental/behavioral health diagnoses, including co-occurring substance abuse issues.
Are you having trouble letting go of painful and unhelpful patterns? Feeling a vague sense of 'now what?' or even more debilitating anxious feelings? Perhaps you are a loving and supportive parent who has reached your limit and don't know where to turn to support your struggling, adult child. My passion is helping adults of every age navigate through life's inevitable transitions. I will help you uncover the underlying issues keeping you from moving forward, and help you to process complicated feelings while creating a plan to live more authentically and aligned with your soul's purpose.
(512) 710-1322 View (512) 710-1322
Photo of Michelle John, PhD, LPC-S, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Michelle John, PhD, LPC-S, SEP
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, SEP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
You are making the choice to embrace a new empowered you! Realizing that there is strength in finding support, this choice can lead you to a positive path of growth and well-being. Applying integrative therapeutic techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. If you're looking for support and guidance through challenging situations or you're ready to move in another direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. In a creative atmosphere I can help you uncover your true potential and a life worth celebrating!
You are making the choice to embrace a new empowered you! Realizing that there is strength in finding support, this choice can lead you to a positive path of growth and well-being. Applying integrative therapeutic techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. If you're looking for support and guidance through challenging situations or you're ready to move in another direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. In a creative atmosphere I can help you uncover your true potential and a life worth celebrating!
(512) 213-4840 View (512) 213-4840
Photo of Nicollette Violante, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Nicollette Violante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CLC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
As human beings, we are hard-wired for two things: to survive and to connect. I whole-heartedly believe that in order to survive (and thrive!) in life, we need connection. We all want to feel seen, heard, understood, and accepted; these are the basic ingredients in order for us to feel safe in our relationships, and what I strive to bring to you as your therapist. I am equipped to support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, and parents facing behavioral and relational challenges with children under the age of 7. I also specialize in perinatal mental health and lactation.
As human beings, we are hard-wired for two things: to survive and to connect. I whole-heartedly believe that in order to survive (and thrive!) in life, we need connection. We all want to feel seen, heard, understood, and accepted; these are the basic ingredients in order for us to feel safe in our relationships, and what I strive to bring to you as your therapist. I am equipped to support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, and parents facing behavioral and relational challenges with children under the age of 7. I also specialize in perinatal mental health and lactation.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of James Allen Carter-Haith Jr, Psychologist in Austin, TX
James Allen Carter-Haith Jr
Psychologist, PhD, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78752
My experience is in working with families, couples, adults, adolescents and children in the central Texas community with issues such as: relationships, behavioral problems, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Anger problems, and transitional life issues (e.
Many of life's stressors continue to interfere with the potential joys of life, we can work together to help you minimize the effect of life's stressors so you can begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
My experience is in working with families, couples, adults, adolescents and children in the central Texas community with issues such as: relationships, behavioral problems, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Anger problems, and transitional life issues (e.
Many of life's stressors continue to interfere with the potential joys of life, we can work together to help you minimize the effect of life's stressors so you can begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
(979) 227-2303 View (979) 227-2303
Photo of Bev Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Bev Lucas, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
My DBT training is through Behavioral Tech, founded by Marsha Linehan who developed Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Are you having difficulty managing barriers that are keeping you from living life as completely as you would like? Working on agreed upon goals, I help clients with skills that offer movement towards change. Are you experiencing high anxiety, panic, thoughts of suicide, or relationship problems that seem impossible to change?
My DBT training is through Behavioral Tech, founded by Marsha Linehan who developed Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Are you having difficulty managing barriers that are keeping you from living life as completely as you would like? Working on agreed upon goals, I help clients with skills that offer movement towards change. Are you experiencing high anxiety, panic, thoughts of suicide, or relationship problems that seem impossible to change?
(512) 237-7908 View (512) 237-7908
Photo of Danielle J. Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Danielle J. Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78757
My foundation is Dialectical Behavior Therapy, with additional training in Prolonged Exposure, Gottman Level 1&2, Intuitive Eating, and relational therapies.
I’m here to help you feel less overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless or helpless. To help you quiet your brain/body, organize your thoughts, and figure out not just where all this stuff comes from, but what you can do about it. Sometimes I help people find answers inside themselves they already knew, sometimes I help people get outside of themselves and use insights from our fellow humans, from nature, science, spirituality, philosophy, you name it. I’m a straight talker, AND I don’t judge— literally, I can teach you how to use a nonjudgmental stance— and possibly most importantly, I bring some FUN to this process!
My foundation is Dialectical Behavior Therapy, with additional training in Prolonged Exposure, Gottman Level 1&2, Intuitive Eating, and relational therapies.
I’m here to help you feel less overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless or helpless. To help you quiet your brain/body, organize your thoughts, and figure out not just where all this stuff comes from, but what you can do about it. Sometimes I help people find answers inside themselves they already knew, sometimes I help people get outside of themselves and use insights from our fellow humans, from nature, science, spirituality, philosophy, you name it. I’m a straight talker, AND I don’t judge— literally, I can teach you how to use a nonjudgmental stance— and possibly most importantly, I bring some FUN to this process!
(737) 302-5242 View (737) 302-5242
Photo of Emily Matis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Austin, TX
Emily Matis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I strive to create a trusting bond with each of my clients as we work collaboratively to address specific needs and explore optimal goals. I combine aspects from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and culturally sensitive perspectives to help my clients through challenges they are facing while better appreciating who they are. Together, my patients and I will explore the stories and struggles that have shaped them including early familial attachments, traumas, and multigenerational patterns that have had great impact on the present day.
I strive to create a trusting bond with each of my clients as we work collaboratively to address specific needs and explore optimal goals. I combine aspects from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and culturally sensitive perspectives to help my clients through challenges they are facing while better appreciating who they are. Together, my patients and I will explore the stories and struggles that have shaped them including early familial attachments, traumas, and multigenerational patterns that have had great impact on the present day.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Linda Gamst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Linda Gamst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
For preteens and adolescents, I draw from cognitive behavioral and insight-oriented therapies that focus on identity development, value clarification, emotional regulation, and negotiating needs and wants effectively.
I enjoy working with children, adults, couples and families who are seeking support with relationships, managing emotion, co-parenting and navigating the obstacles of everyday life. Transitions can be challenging whether it be starting a new grade, adjusting to divorce, or leaving home to begin college. Mental health issues can complicate productivity making it difficult to experience happiness, joy and success. I enjoy working with the complex dynamics of couples and families. This might include helping children to improve peer or sibling relationships, adjust to a parent's divorce, or navigate their own powerful emotions.
For preteens and adolescents, I draw from cognitive behavioral and insight-oriented therapies that focus on identity development, value clarification, emotional regulation, and negotiating needs and wants effectively.
I enjoy working with children, adults, couples and families who are seeking support with relationships, managing emotion, co-parenting and navigating the obstacles of everyday life. Transitions can be challenging whether it be starting a new grade, adjusting to divorce, or leaving home to begin college. Mental health issues can complicate productivity making it difficult to experience happiness, joy and success. I enjoy working with the complex dynamics of couples and families. This might include helping children to improve peer or sibling relationships, adjust to a parent's divorce, or navigate their own powerful emotions.
(737) 204-8242 View (737) 204-8242
Behavioral Issues Therapists

What happens in therapy for behavioral issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behavior issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioral issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioral issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioral concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behavior management, often used when the underlying cause of behavior issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioral issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behavior issues?

Studies show that therapy for behavior issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behavior later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behavior. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.