Building Stronger Family Connections
Parenting can be challenging even in the best circumstances. When your child shows difficult behaviors, family life can become stressful. Perhaps you’ve tried various approaches and found yourself feeling frustrated, worried, or unsure of how to respond. Parent-Child Interaction Training (PCIT) offers a different approach. It builds on your parental strengths while teaching specific skills to improve connection and cooperation.
PCIT is an evidence-based approach designed for families with children ages 2-7 who are experiencing behavioral challenges. This program, which can be in-person or virtual, focuses on strengthening relationships while providing parents with effective, positive strategies to handle difficult behaviors. The skills you learn can transform challenging moments into opportunities.
Unlike some parenting approaches that rely on general advice, PCIT provides real-time coaching and practice. You’ll receive immediate feedback while interacting with your child, helping you master new skills. As you build confidence in these techniques, you’ll see positive changes both at home and in other settings.
Benefits for Families
Families who complete PCIT typically experience significant improvements:
- Stronger, more secure parent-child relationships
- Reduced frequency and intensity of challenging behaviors
- Increased child compliance with instructions
- Greater parental confidence and reduced stress
- More enjoyable family interactions
- Improved child self-esteem and social skills
- Lasting positive changes that extend beyond the home
Who Can Benefit From PCIT
PCIT is particularly helpful for families with children who:
- Frequently refuse to follow directions
- Have intense tantrums or emotional outbursts
- Show aggressive behaviors toward others
- Struggle with attention and focus
- Have difficulty in preschool or school settings
- Seem to respond poorly to typical discipline approaches
- Have experienced significant life changes or stresses
Virtual PCIT – A Modern Twist on a Proven Method
In a virtual setting, you can think of your computer as the two-way mirror. Just like in a traditional PCIT clinic, you’ll wear an earpiece while I observe your interaction with your child in real time.
You and your child see only each other, but I can see and coach you from the other side of the screen, offering real-time support and guidance.
You’re never alone. I’m with you every step of the way, gently coaching you through play and discipline techniques that build connection and reduce frustration.
Here are some reasons why families prefer Virtual PCIT sessions:
- Kids are more comfortable at home. The sessions feel more natural and fun
- No commuting or traffic woes
- You practice your skills in a real-time environment which provides faster results
- Parents feel empowered as they learn tools that really work
All sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, designed specifically for confidential telehealth therapy.
What You Can Expect
The PCIT program has two main phases. In the first phase (Child-Directed Interaction), you’ll learn specific skills to strengthen your relationship with your child through special play time. The second phase (Parent-Directed Interaction) teaches effective, consistent discipline strategies that work while maintaining a positive connection.
Sessions typically involve you and your child together. Using a special earpiece, I’ll coach you through interactions with your child, providing immediate guidance and support. This real-time feedback helps you master new skills quickly. Between sessions, brief daily practice activities help reinforce what you’re learning.
Most families complete the program in 12-20 sessions, with noticeable improvements often beginning within the first few weeks. Throughout the process, we’ll track progress using specific measures to ensure the approach is working for your family.
Your First Step Can Be the Most Powerful
Taking the first step toward positive change in your family might feel uncertain, but it’s often the most powerful one. With specialized training in PCIT, I’m here to support you with compassionate, evidence-based methods that truly help. You don’t have to navigate parenting challenges alone. Reach out through the “Contact Me” button below, and let’s take that first step together.