Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Overview

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment for young children with behavioral difficulties. The program focuses on improving the relationship between caregivers and children while helping caregivers develop effective behavior-management strategies. PCIT is designed for children typically ages 2–7 who experience challenges such as frequent tantrums, defiance, aggression, or difficulty following directions.

Benefits to Children

• Improved behavior, including better compliance with adult instructions
• Increased feelings of safety and attachment to caregivers
• Enhanced attention spans, self-esteem, and social skills like sharing and taking turns
• Decreased frequency and intensity of tantrums, as well as reduced aggressive behavior
• Lower levels of hyperactivity and fewer negative attention-seeking behaviors, such as whining

Benefits to Caregivers

• Reduced stress and frustration in parenting
• Increased confidence in parenting skills

Our Approach

PCIT sessions involve both the caregiver and the child. During treatment, therapists coach caregivers in real time as they interact with their child.

Treatment focuses on two phases:

• Child-Directed Interaction (CDI)
  Caregivers learn relationship-building skills that promote positive interactions and strengthen the emotional connection with their child.
• Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI)
  Caregivers learn structured techniques to give clear directions, set limits, and manage challenging behaviors effectively.

How Parent-Child Interaction Therapy ( PCIT) Works

In PCIT, caregivers receive real-time constructive coaching. Here’s how it all comes together:

• Play as Communication: Play serves as a child’s way of communicating, offering a relaxed and safe setting
• Therapist’s Role: The therapist will review the skills you are learning and observe a brief interaction between you and your child during play
• Coaching: For the rest of the session, the therapist will coach you in using these skills with your child during play
• Coaching Settings: The therapist can coach you from another room using a provided earpiece, or they can sit nearby in the same room
• Practice at Home: In addition to the sessions, caregivers are expected to practice these skills every day at home and complete a practice sheet

What Sets Us Apart?

The PCIT program offers:

• Real-time coaching from trained therapists
• A structured, evidence-based treatment model
• Focus on strengthening the parent-child relationship
• Skill-building that caregivers can continue using at home
• Proven results in reducing disruptive behaviors in young children

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (585) 279-7800.

Locations

Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness
1860 South Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620

200 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623

Hours

Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness Outpatient Services
Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday (select locations): 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.