Photo of Sora Vigorito Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Sora Vigorito Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Safety Harbor, FL 34695  (Online Only)
I have 23+ years experience supporting a safe place to heal for individuals, couples, families and adolescents from a variety of experiences, faiths, and situations. I have an eclectic approach due to my many years of practice counseling, running groups and teaching. My goal is to treat each person as a unique individual and to encourage their reflection to create the life that you wish. I have many areas of expertise including all types of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, anger issues, communication skills, as well as career and self esteem. I am able to also use a spiritual perspective if that speaks to you.
I have 23+ years experience supporting a safe place to heal for individuals, couples, families and adolescents from a variety of experiences, faiths, and situations. I have an eclectic approach due to my many years of practice counseling, running groups and teaching. My goal is to treat each person as a unique individual and to encourage their reflection to create the life that you wish. I have many areas of expertise including all types of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, anger issues, communication skills, as well as career and self esteem. I am able to also use a spiritual perspective if that speaks to you.
(216) 777-1398 View (216) 777-1398

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kada Stull, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Kada Stull
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Kada enjoys working with children, teenagers and adults. Kada graduated with her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from The University of Florida. She genuinely cares for her clients and puts a lot of time and effort into making sure they are getting the help that they need. She takes a trauma-informed approach and uses attachment-based theory in her practice. She also utilizes CBT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness Based Interventions. When working with children, she loves using Play Therapy Techniques as play is a child’s primary form of communication and processing.
Kada enjoys working with children, teenagers and adults. Kada graduated with her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from The University of Florida. She genuinely cares for her clients and puts a lot of time and effort into making sure they are getting the help that they need. She takes a trauma-informed approach and uses attachment-based theory in her practice. She also utilizes CBT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness Based Interventions. When working with children, she loves using Play Therapy Techniques as play is a child’s primary form of communication and processing.
(727) 205-8817 View (727) 205-8817
Photo of David S. La Pensee LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
David S. La Pensee LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33625
During my long career, treating adolescents, adults, couples and families I have striven to provide high quality behavioral health services to a very diverse and broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic style is caring and compassionate, always with the goal of assisting you to overcome the challenges you are facing, in the most effective way I can. I strive to partner with you and to create a therapeutic alliance so you will feel that you have a thepist who wants to listen and help. I look forward to meeting with you, so we can begin the process of change. The first step is the hardest, but it can lead to enhancing your life.
During my long career, treating adolescents, adults, couples and families I have striven to provide high quality behavioral health services to a very diverse and broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic style is caring and compassionate, always with the goal of assisting you to overcome the challenges you are facing, in the most effective way I can. I strive to partner with you and to create a therapeutic alliance so you will feel that you have a thepist who wants to listen and help. I look forward to meeting with you, so we can begin the process of change. The first step is the hardest, but it can lead to enhancing your life.
(813) 336-8036 View (813) 336-8036
Photo of Patrick Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Patrick Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
Patrick’s counseling approach is solution focused and utilizes various therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral (REBT), Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed, and Acceptance Centered (ACT).
Patrick has more than eight years of experience in the mental health and addictions field, having worked in many different settings with diverse populations. Patrick is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army, where he served multiple combat deployments. His areas of clinical expertise include: co-occurring disorders, trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, male sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addictions, anger management, crisis intervention, childhood issues, grief/loss, couples and families.
(727) 240-2279 View (727) 240-2279
Photo of Tyne Hurtado, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Tyne Hurtado
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, QS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Hurtado Counseling is dedicated to providing Quality Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Workplace Consultations, Internships, Education & Training, and much more. Hurtado Counseling is made up of a diverse group of counselors with various backgrounds, treatment methods, training, education, and more. However, ALL the Counselors with Hurtado Counseling share a common goal of providing personalized care for their client’s needs. We see all types of needs, offer services from ages 3+, are LGBTQIA+ advocates, utilize a variety of treatment modalities, etc. We aim to personalize your treatment to the best fit for you.
Hurtado Counseling is dedicated to providing Quality Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Workplace Consultations, Internships, Education & Training, and much more. Hurtado Counseling is made up of a diverse group of counselors with various backgrounds, treatment methods, training, education, and more. However, ALL the Counselors with Hurtado Counseling share a common goal of providing personalized care for their client’s needs. We see all types of needs, offer services from ages 3+, are LGBTQIA+ advocates, utilize a variety of treatment modalities, etc. We aim to personalize your treatment to the best fit for you.
(727) 478-2377 View (727) 478-2377
Photo of Jennifer Ingrao, Pre-Licensed Professional in Safety Harbor, FL
Jennifer Ingrao
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Palm Harbor, FL 34682
I utilize a compassion-based, person-centered approach, while using cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT) to teach skills for living a happier life and encourage forward movement and scalable, manageable change.
I’m passionate about helping individuals live their fullest life and uncovering any barriers that are hindering them from this pursuit. I believe in tailoring treatment to the individual and balancing the art of therapy with neuroscience. I specialize in therapy with individuals with a wide variety of mental health issues and diagnoses including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, self-worth, and more. My goal is to help clients work toward the life they want, cope with uncertainty, handle difficult emotions, develop skills to manage day-to-day life effectively, and most importantly: find happiness.
I utilize a compassion-based, person-centered approach, while using cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT) to teach skills for living a happier life and encourage forward movement and scalable, manageable change.
I’m passionate about helping individuals live their fullest life and uncovering any barriers that are hindering them from this pursuit. I believe in tailoring treatment to the individual and balancing the art of therapy with neuroscience. I specialize in therapy with individuals with a wide variety of mental health issues and diagnoses including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, self-worth, and more. My goal is to help clients work toward the life they want, cope with uncertainty, handle difficult emotions, develop skills to manage day-to-day life effectively, and most importantly: find happiness.
(727) 594-6351 View (727) 594-6351
Photo of Diana Sills - Bailin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Diana Sills - Bailin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33763
My approach includes psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, Gestalt and humanistic.
Do you know that you want therapy, but you're not sure whom to call? I have more than 30 years experience as a therapist helping hundreds of people resolve their problems, improve their relationships and heal. I would like to help you! It is important to me that you have the opportunity to work towards health and well-being. Life can be so much more fulfilling than most people realize. Sometimes we only need some insights into what's really going on in our relationships. I can give you the necessary insights you need to make important life changes.
My approach includes psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, Gestalt and humanistic.
Do you know that you want therapy, but you're not sure whom to call? I have more than 30 years experience as a therapist helping hundreds of people resolve their problems, improve their relationships and heal. I would like to help you! It is important to me that you have the opportunity to work towards health and well-being. Life can be so much more fulfilling than most people realize. Sometimes we only need some insights into what's really going on in our relationships. I can give you the necessary insights you need to make important life changes.
(727) 953-7505 View (727) 953-7505
Photo of Tampa Bay Area Counseling, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Tampa Bay Area Counseling
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
(727) 758-3948 View (727) 758-3948
Photo of Tricia Shelden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Tricia Shelden, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
I will provide you with the necessary coping skills in order to explore new possibilities and ways of experiencing life with a sense of increased confidence. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and eclectic. Among other techniques, I am efficient in utilizing CBT for re-framing and the formation of immediate coping skills to provide quick relief. Therapy is a journey of discovery, healing and personal growth that enables you to cope with difficult relationships, past trauma, depression, anxiety, health issues and life stressors. My skills will be utilized to address your immediate concerns and enable you to forge forward.
I will provide you with the necessary coping skills in order to explore new possibilities and ways of experiencing life with a sense of increased confidence. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and eclectic. Among other techniques, I am efficient in utilizing CBT for re-framing and the formation of immediate coping skills to provide quick relief. Therapy is a journey of discovery, healing and personal growth that enables you to cope with difficult relationships, past trauma, depression, anxiety, health issues and life stressors. My skills will be utilized to address your immediate concerns and enable you to forge forward.
(918) 863-2441 View (918) 863-2441
Photo of Mary Leanes, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Mary Leanes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
(727) 359-0335 View (727) 359-0335
Photo of Clean Recovery Centers, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Clean Recovery Centers
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33770
Unique Three Phase Approach Every day the plagues of alcoholism, drug addiction and untreated mental health issues impact millions of lives. Clean Recovery Centers treats alcohol abuse, addiction and mental health based on a 3-phase approach: Get Clean. Live Clean. Stay Clean. Services include a full spectrum of treatment options from Medical Detox, Residential I, Residential II with Mental Health, Day/Night Treatment (DNT) with Community Housing, Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP) with Transitional Living for both Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Mental Health, to Outpatient (OP) Treatment for both Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Mental Health. Clean Recovery Centers provides tools to achieve permanent recovery. Our highly skilled staff knows addiction and understands what it takes to beat the disease and lead successful, rewarding lives. Clean Recovery Centers has several locations on the Sun Coast of Florida.
Unique Three Phase Approach Every day the plagues of alcoholism, drug addiction and untreated mental health issues impact millions of lives. Clean Recovery Centers treats alcohol abuse, addiction and mental health based on a 3-phase approach: Get Clean. Live Clean. Stay Clean. Services include a full spectrum of treatment options from Medical Detox, Residential I, Residential II with Mental Health, Day/Night Treatment (DNT) with Community Housing, Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP) with Transitional Living for both Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Mental Health, to Outpatient (OP) Treatment for both Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Mental Health. Clean Recovery Centers provides tools to achieve permanent recovery. Our highly skilled staff knows addiction and understands what it takes to beat the disease and lead successful, rewarding lives. Clean Recovery Centers has several locations on the Sun Coast of Florida.
(727) 353-1742 View (727) 353-1742
Photo of Lauren Roberts, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Lauren Roberts
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
Lauren’s approach is trauma informed along with utilizing skills and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered therapy with a strength-based approach along with Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Lauren truly enjoys working with adults, couples, and children ages two and older, along with providing parental support through a love and logic approach. Lauren enjoys working with a variety of issues ranging from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), Adjustment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Depression and Couple’s Counseling.
Lauren’s approach is trauma informed along with utilizing skills and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered therapy with a strength-based approach along with Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Lauren truly enjoys working with adults, couples, and children ages two and older, along with providing parental support through a love and logic approach. Lauren enjoys working with a variety of issues ranging from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), Adjustment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Depression and Couple’s Counseling.
(727) 732-4549 View (727) 732-4549
Photo of Alejandra Otero Mori, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern in Safety Harbor, FL
Alejandra Otero Mori
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
I am here for you and with you. You are many things to many people in your life. You are a partner, parent, grandparent, friend, professional, neighbor, but who are you to yourself? How are you taking care of you? Are you taking time for yourself, without guilt, to work towards your personal, emotional, physical, psychological, and professional goals? As we navigate our experiences and choices in life, we often carry complex feelings and unresolved baggage. These feelings become unbearable at times. Fear, doubt, insecurities, and worry can take a hold of us, resulting in us neglecting ourselves and repeating the same patterns
I am here for you and with you. You are many things to many people in your life. You are a partner, parent, grandparent, friend, professional, neighbor, but who are you to yourself? How are you taking care of you? Are you taking time for yourself, without guilt, to work towards your personal, emotional, physical, psychological, and professional goals? As we navigate our experiences and choices in life, we often carry complex feelings and unresolved baggage. These feelings become unbearable at times. Fear, doubt, insecurities, and worry can take a hold of us, resulting in us neglecting ourselves and repeating the same patterns
(727) 317-6246 View (727) 317-6246

Online Therapists

Photo of Robert J Fennewald-Vélez, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Robert J Fennewald-Vélez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
In my capacity as a mental health professional, I utilized sound theoretically based modalities, reality therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy.
Anxiety, depression, marital/work problems, children, losses and trauma unfortunately are part of life. Quite often you may delay seeking counseling due to a variety of reasons; shame, fear, time, cultural values. You may seek help from non professionals only to delay finding an appropriate solution and emotional relief for you. In my twenty eight years of combined education and experience in the field, I can help.
In my capacity as a mental health professional, I utilized sound theoretically based modalities, reality therapy/cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy.
Anxiety, depression, marital/work problems, children, losses and trauma unfortunately are part of life. Quite often you may delay seeking counseling due to a variety of reasons; shame, fear, time, cultural values. You may seek help from non professionals only to delay finding an appropriate solution and emotional relief for you. In my twenty eight years of combined education and experience in the field, I can help.
(407) 392-1317 View (407) 392-1317
Photo of Pascale Augustine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Pascale Augustine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC) with over 24 years of experience working with both Adults and adolescents, I have seen a wide range of mental health diagnosis that do not need to define who my clients are, but rather are unique elements of their own journeys. As each journey is unique, my role is to help my clients on that journey to navigate those obstacles, build new skills, and seek personal insight on how those obstacles can be overcome or managed.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC) with over 24 years of experience working with both Adults and adolescents, I have seen a wide range of mental health diagnosis that do not need to define who my clients are, but rather are unique elements of their own journeys. As each journey is unique, my role is to help my clients on that journey to navigate those obstacles, build new skills, and seek personal insight on how those obstacles can be overcome or managed.
(551) 239-9439 View (551) 239-9439
Photo of Rachel Thorpe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Rachel Thorpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DAPA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233
Hello there, and welcome to my profile. My decision to work in this field was fueled by my observations of my mom's experiences with mental health treatment. As a result, I have strong compassion for people and I approach treatment differently. I am constantly looking for new and effective treatments that can be pleasant and enjoyable. I am a huge animal lover and I believe that animals enrich our lives and trigger our natural compassion for others. This is why I incorporate animals in my practice. There is nothing more uplifting than to be greeted by two wagging tails.
Hello there, and welcome to my profile. My decision to work in this field was fueled by my observations of my mom's experiences with mental health treatment. As a result, I have strong compassion for people and I approach treatment differently. I am constantly looking for new and effective treatments that can be pleasant and enjoyable. I am a huge animal lover and I believe that animals enrich our lives and trigger our natural compassion for others. This is why I incorporate animals in my practice. There is nothing more uplifting than to be greeted by two wagging tails.
(941) 803-1263 View (941) 803-1263
Photo of Cory Pacheck M.ed. Lmft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Safety Harbor, FL
Cory Pacheck M.ed. Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
24 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, children & adolescents, experiencing a wide variety of problems. Marital problems, Military & Law Enforcement families, PTSD, relationship issues, infidelity, depression, anxiety, poor communication, substance abuse & addiction, fighting over finances & parenting, sex & intimacy problems, blended families, effects of divorce, anger management, life coaching, college students, adolescent issues, school related problems, self esteem, ADHD, kids who self-injure, traumatic experiences, sports athletes of all levels. Men’s issues.
24 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, children & adolescents, experiencing a wide variety of problems. Marital problems, Military & Law Enforcement families, PTSD, relationship issues, infidelity, depression, anxiety, poor communication, substance abuse & addiction, fighting over finances & parenting, sex & intimacy problems, blended families, effects of divorce, anger management, life coaching, college students, adolescent issues, school related problems, self esteem, ADHD, kids who self-injure, traumatic experiences, sports athletes of all levels. Men’s issues.
(860) 670-1892 View (860) 670-1892
Photo of Boss Wellness, LLC, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
Boss Wellness, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Mary, FL 32746
I have extensive experience working with families and children by providing play therapy as well as cognitive and behavioral based approaches to help children and adolescents reach their fullest potential in school and at home.
Louise Hay said it best: "Every thought we think is creating our future!" What you believe and think, is your reality. I offer a positive, cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients realize their dreams, reach their goals and maintain success. I work with individuals, families and children. Most major insurance groups are accepted, and Skype sessions are available.
I have extensive experience working with families and children by providing play therapy as well as cognitive and behavioral based approaches to help children and adolescents reach their fullest potential in school and at home.
Louise Hay said it best: "Every thought we think is creating our future!" What you believe and think, is your reality. I offer a positive, cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients realize their dreams, reach their goals and maintain success. I work with individuals, families and children. Most major insurance groups are accepted, and Skype sessions are available.
(407) 915-3678 View (407) 915-3678
Photo of James Bryan Bartlett, Counselor in Safety Harbor, FL
James Bryan Bartlett
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dade City, FL 33523
Purposeful growth...... it's what we all want. A chance to make a difference in our day to day lives. And, at one time or another, we need the help of others to do this. Whether it is to gain insight, develop a plan of action, or push to levels we could only dream of, I am here to navigate circumstances with you. Take a look at my website for more details.
Purposeful growth...... it's what we all want. A chance to make a difference in our day to day lives. And, at one time or another, we need the help of others to do this. Whether it is to gain insight, develop a plan of action, or push to levels we could only dream of, I am here to navigate circumstances with you. Take a look at my website for more details.
(727) 478-2270 View (727) 478-2270
Tampa Bay Therapist & Associates
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33614
We are a trauma-informed practice with the main therapeutic modality of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy or TF-CBT.
Greetings! Tampa Bay Therapist & Associates are ready to meet your professional coaching and counseling needs. We have several therapists on staff ready to begin. Our group therapists offer compassionate care with years of experience. We are a diverse practice with counselors from many differing backgrounds. Please inquire with us to learn more. We have Spanish Speaking counselors as well.
We are a trauma-informed practice with the main therapeutic modality of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy or TF-CBT.
Greetings! Tampa Bay Therapist & Associates are ready to meet your professional coaching and counseling needs. We have several therapists on staff ready to begin. Our group therapists offer compassionate care with years of experience. We are a diverse practice with counselors from many differing backgrounds. Please inquire with us to learn more. We have Spanish Speaking counselors as well.
(813) 397-6744 View (813) 397-6744

See more therapy options for Safety Harbor

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.