Behavioral Issues Therapists in Gaithersburg, MD

Photo of Ashley Williams, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Ashley Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
When supporting children, adolescents and caregivers in management of anxiety disorders, behavioral difficulties, traumatic experiences, parent-child interactions, and peer relationship difficulties, I like to expand on the individual's coping skills, emotion regulation techniques, executive functioning skills, problem-solving skills, and sense of self.
I love working with children, teens and caregivers to improve the quality of life for all members of the family system. As part of my client centered approach, I do ask that clients and caregivers are active participants in the therapeutic process. As an active participant, you and your child will be able to try various methods to improve and develop the life that you wish to have. I value a holistic approach to therapy which includes examination of the person and how they respond to their behaviors, beliefs, and the community around them by incorporating talk therapy and some expressive therapeutic techniques.
When supporting children, adolescents and caregivers in management of anxiety disorders, behavioral difficulties, traumatic experiences, parent-child interactions, and peer relationship difficulties, I like to expand on the individual's coping skills, emotion regulation techniques, executive functioning skills, problem-solving skills, and sense of self.
I love working with children, teens and caregivers to improve the quality of life for all members of the family system. As part of my client centered approach, I do ask that clients and caregivers are active participants in the therapeutic process. As an active participant, you and your child will be able to try various methods to improve and develop the life that you wish to have. I value a holistic approach to therapy which includes examination of the person and how they respond to their behaviors, beliefs, and the community around them by incorporating talk therapy and some expressive therapeutic techniques.
(240) 209-9965 View (240) 209-9965
Photo of Andrea Carpenter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Andrea Carpenter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PCIT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating children & adolescents, as well as adults who struggle with behavioral needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD & life transitions among other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor & a certified PCIT therapist/trainer. I have been working with children, youth, families, & adults for the past 10 years who have experienced a variety of different stressors, traumatic situations, & transitions/adjustments. My approach is therapy is to create a safe & accepting environment, help you develop insight into your thoughts, feelings & actions as well as develop effective coping strategies to manage stressors. Therapy will help you feel more confident & supported while also helping you/or your child learn to manage your emotions, needs & be able to communicate those with others.
I specialize in treating children & adolescents, as well as adults who struggle with behavioral needs, anxiety, depression, ADHD & life transitions among other issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor & a certified PCIT therapist/trainer. I have been working with children, youth, families, & adults for the past 10 years who have experienced a variety of different stressors, traumatic situations, & transitions/adjustments. My approach is therapy is to create a safe & accepting environment, help you develop insight into your thoughts, feelings & actions as well as develop effective coping strategies to manage stressors. Therapy will help you feel more confident & supported while also helping you/or your child learn to manage your emotions, needs & be able to communicate those with others.
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Photo of Nathaniel A Sawyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Nathaniel A Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
I specialize in treating behavioral issues such as defiant behavior and anger or aggression in children.
I have a lot of experience with both adults and children who have mental health, behavioral problems, and substance abuse issues. I use an ecclectic approach and tailor the therapy style to the individual patient.
I specialize in treating behavioral issues such as defiant behavior and anger or aggression in children.
I have a lot of experience with both adults and children who have mental health, behavioral problems, and substance abuse issues. I use an ecclectic approach and tailor the therapy style to the individual patient.
(301) 684-5041 View (301) 684-5041
Photo of Peter Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Peter Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20882
I specialize in working with individuals and families who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, thought/mood disorders, behavior challenges, executive functioning disorders, and ADD/ADHD.
Therapy is a vessel for a client to reach and achieve their personal goals. I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to create, implement, and achieve their goals with the help and assistance of their therapist. I've worked in a variety of settings, including residential rehabilitation programs supporting individuals living with chronic mental illness, outpatient mental health clinics and social/emotional support groups for transition aged youth and young adults.
I specialize in working with individuals and families who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, thought/mood disorders, behavior challenges, executive functioning disorders, and ADD/ADHD.
Therapy is a vessel for a client to reach and achieve their personal goals. I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to create, implement, and achieve their goals with the help and assistance of their therapist. I've worked in a variety of settings, including residential rehabilitation programs supporting individuals living with chronic mental illness, outpatient mental health clinics and social/emotional support groups for transition aged youth and young adults.
(301) 761-5965 View (301) 761-5965
Photo of Kathleen Van Meter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Kathleen Van Meter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
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Photo of HughesCounselingService, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
HughesCounselingService
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitizing Reprocessing Therapy.
Greetings, I am Ms. Hughes and if you are seeking a therapist to journey along side you as you evolve into an authentic version of yourself, please contact me, I am willing. The following summary describes my experiences to assist you with achieving the above stated endeavor. I am a License Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Professional. I have over fifteen years of work helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, regulation of emotions, impulsive behaviors and processing traumatic events. I am a seasoned therapist in the helping profession and have helped children, families and couples.
I have been trained in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitizing Reprocessing Therapy.
Greetings, I am Ms. Hughes and if you are seeking a therapist to journey along side you as you evolve into an authentic version of yourself, please contact me, I am willing. The following summary describes my experiences to assist you with achieving the above stated endeavor. I am a License Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Professional. I have over fifteen years of work helping individuals manage depression, anxiety, regulation of emotions, impulsive behaviors and processing traumatic events. I am a seasoned therapist in the helping profession and have helped children, families and couples.
(240) 770-0009 View (240) 770-0009
Photo of Keesha Collins-Griffin, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Keesha Collins-Griffin
Counselor, LCPC, , LPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Specialities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Person Centered, Mindfulness and Supportive Therapy as well as Behavior modification and treatment planning.
I am a seasoned clinician excited to listen and provide platforms designing and employing Psychotherapy approaches. Skill building, empowering others and using positive and strength-based individualized interventions are crafts I possess, reflective of rapport building, professionalism and experience. My goal, as a therapist, is to celebrate differences while counseling others and recognizing their strengths becoming experts of themselves and circumstances. All interventions are therapeutically driven, meeting people where they are, respecting lenses, and providing comfort, awareness and guidance through stages of desired outcomes.
Specialities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Person Centered, Mindfulness and Supportive Therapy as well as Behavior modification and treatment planning.
I am a seasoned clinician excited to listen and provide platforms designing and employing Psychotherapy approaches. Skill building, empowering others and using positive and strength-based individualized interventions are crafts I possess, reflective of rapport building, professionalism and experience. My goal, as a therapist, is to celebrate differences while counseling others and recognizing their strengths becoming experts of themselves and circumstances. All interventions are therapeutically driven, meeting people where they are, respecting lenses, and providing comfort, awareness and guidance through stages of desired outcomes.
(443) 241-6690 View (443) 241-6690
Photo of Safiyya Abdul Bari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Safiyya Abdul Bari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I use active listening, engaging responses, compassionate questioning, validation strategies and cognitive behavioral interventions to support clients in remaining committed to therapy as they challenge themselves to change well-established behavioral, cognitive and emotional patterns which they find frustrating but have relied on over time.
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
I use active listening, engaging responses, compassionate questioning, validation strategies and cognitive behavioral interventions to support clients in remaining committed to therapy as they challenge themselves to change well-established behavioral, cognitive and emotional patterns which they find frustrating but have relied on over time.
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
(410) 673-4873 View (410) 673-4873
Photo of Azhia-Lin Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Azhia-Lin Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I will frequently use the combination of client-centered approaches, mindfulness, play based therapy techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients reach their full potential.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
I will frequently use the combination of client-centered approaches, mindfulness, play based therapy techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients reach their full potential.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
(240) 820-2606 View (240) 820-2606
Photo of Perla Lay, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Perla Lay
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients from childhood to early adulthood, in addition to couples and families who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, self-harm, stress, grief, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. I have a particular interest in helping clients navigate life transitions, such as identity searching, career changes, and loss, and helping clients find meaning and purpose in their lives. I work to create a safe and supportive space where people can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I will help you to find your path forward.
Throughout my career, I have worked with clients from childhood to early adulthood, in addition to couples and families who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, self-harm, stress, grief, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. I have a particular interest in helping clients navigate life transitions, such as identity searching, career changes, and loss, and helping clients find meaning and purpose in their lives. I work to create a safe and supportive space where people can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I will help you to find your path forward.
(301) 450-6576 View (301) 450-6576
Photo of Michael A Bluestone, Psychologist in Gaithersburg, MD
Michael A Bluestone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
My therapeutic approach is based upon the principles of positive behavior supports, cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma informed care.
My therapeutic approach is based upon the principles of positive behavior supports, cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma informed care.
(240) 202-3093 View (240) 202-3093
Photo of Dr. Adam J McTighe, Psychologist in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Adam J McTighe
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My doctorate and primary orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral; I also have a masters in psychodynamic and pull from other evidenced-based practices as well.
I believe in the power of resilience and self-empowerment; however, for those times when that isn't working or a little more is needed, I am here for support. You are the expert on you; I am here to get you back to where want to be or help move you to where you want to go.
My doctorate and primary orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral; I also have a masters in psychodynamic and pull from other evidenced-based practices as well.
I believe in the power of resilience and self-empowerment; however, for those times when that isn't working or a little more is needed, I am here for support. You are the expert on you; I am here to get you back to where want to be or help move you to where you want to go.
(240) 823-5137 View (240) 823-5137
Photo of Letitia Flowers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Letitia Flowers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I use evidence-based techniques including as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I work hard to help you find lasting solutions to your struggles.
Are you tired of feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Ready to take control of your mental health and embrace a brighter future? I am, Flowers, LMSW, a compassionate and solution-oriented therapist, I specialize in providing exceptional care and crafting personalized evidenced-based treatment plans for children, adolescents and adults dealing with mental and/or behavioral health disorder. I'm here to support you every step of the way. Don't let life's challenges hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you. Contact me and/or one of my professional IBH collegures for a FREE consultaion ASAP.
I use evidence-based techniques including as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I work hard to help you find lasting solutions to your struggles.
Are you tired of feeling weighed down by life's challenges? Ready to take control of your mental health and embrace a brighter future? I am, Flowers, LMSW, a compassionate and solution-oriented therapist, I specialize in providing exceptional care and crafting personalized evidenced-based treatment plans for children, adolescents and adults dealing with mental and/or behavioral health disorder. I'm here to support you every step of the way. Don't let life's challenges hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you. Contact me and/or one of my professional IBH collegures for a FREE consultaion ASAP.
(240) 929-1769 View (240) 929-1769
Photo of Dawn Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Dawn Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Dawn is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 30 years of helping experience. Dawn is a compassionate, caring, & empathic therapist with extensive experience working within inpatient & outpatient mental health settings. She utilizes an integrative & strength-based approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy. Dawn specializes in many areas including, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, & stage of life concerns.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Dawn is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 30 years of helping experience. Dawn is a compassionate, caring, & empathic therapist with extensive experience working within inpatient & outpatient mental health settings. She utilizes an integrative & strength-based approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy. Dawn specializes in many areas including, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, & stage of life concerns.
(301) 769-5878 View (301) 769-5878
Photo of Eric W. Bravo, Psychologist in Gaithersburg, MD
Eric W. Bravo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I have been educated through an integrated psychotherapeutic framework and have received training in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, existential, and multicultural approaches.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to visit my profile. Your journey to this point has likely been considerable, and I acknowledge the challenges that have sparked your interest in psychotherapy. I extend an invitation for you to take the next step. Embarking on therapy represents a genuine commitment to your well-being, and I appreciate the significance of that decision. I aspire to accompany you on the path to self-improvement, providing unwavering support.
I have been educated through an integrated psychotherapeutic framework and have received training in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, existential, and multicultural approaches.
Thank you sincerely for taking the time to visit my profile. Your journey to this point has likely been considerable, and I acknowledge the challenges that have sparked your interest in psychotherapy. I extend an invitation for you to take the next step. Embarking on therapy represents a genuine commitment to your well-being, and I appreciate the significance of that decision. I aspire to accompany you on the path to self-improvement, providing unwavering support.
(301) 710-9186 View (301) 710-9186
Photo of Elizabeth D Robinson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Elizabeth D Robinson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Have you been experiencing increased anxiety, depression, fear or loneliness? Are you struggling with emotions and behaviors you would like to change? As humans, we need connections to others for encouragement, especially when we are suffering from the unexpected challenges this world brings. With support and feedback we can find meaning and purpose even through painful events. I combine Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, to provide a safe, confidential environment where you are free to explore, empower yourself and develop into the person you want to be.
Have you been experiencing increased anxiety, depression, fear or loneliness? Are you struggling with emotions and behaviors you would like to change? As humans, we need connections to others for encouragement, especially when we are suffering from the unexpected challenges this world brings. With support and feedback we can find meaning and purpose even through painful events. I combine Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, to provide a safe, confidential environment where you are free to explore, empower yourself and develop into the person you want to be.
(240) 949-2409 View (240) 949-2409
Photo of Fatima Massaquoi in Gaithersburg, MD
Fatima Massaquoi
LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I utilize a client-centered approach to my work, incorporating elements of a varied span of therapeutic modalities and interventions to include cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment based therapy, internal family systems, and mindfulness depending upon individualistic needs.
Providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I approach therapeutic engagements from a lens of compassion that helps to allow for the facilitation of safety, security, acknowledgement, and understanding within the therapeutic space; fundamental aspects to human engagement we all need and thrive on.
I utilize a client-centered approach to my work, incorporating elements of a varied span of therapeutic modalities and interventions to include cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment based therapy, internal family systems, and mindfulness depending upon individualistic needs.
Providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I approach therapeutic engagements from a lens of compassion that helps to allow for the facilitation of safety, security, acknowledgement, and understanding within the therapeutic space; fundamental aspects to human engagement we all need and thrive on.
(240) 623-2320 View (240) 623-2320
Photo of Kathryn Gargett-Jones, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Kathryn Gargett-Jones
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.
(301) 684-5185 View (301) 684-5185
Photo of Comfort Tetteh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Comfort Tetteh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
(240) 767-6411 View (240) 767-6411
Daniel C York
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Because I view each client as unique, I approach each case differently. I work from an integrative theoretical orientation and employ strategies from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamics, Family Systems, and other theories according to the varying needs of each client.
Because I view each client as unique, I approach each case differently. I work from an integrative theoretical orientation and employ strategies from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamics, Family Systems, and other theories according to the varying needs of each client.
(301) 710-9010 View (301) 710-9010

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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.