Clinical Services

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an empirically-based, positive and intensive treatment program designed to help parents and children together to improve the quality of the parent-child relationship and to teach parents the skills necessary to manage their children's behavior problems.

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy consists of three parts:

1.    Assessment

Prior to beginning treatment, families will receive a comprehensive evaluation of their children's behavior problems.

2.    Relationship Enhancement

In the Relationship Enhancement component of the program, parents are taught and "coached" how to increase the positive aspects of their relationship with their child and develop consistently positive and supportive communication.

3.    Discipline

In the Discipline component of the program, parents are taught and "coached" the elements of effective discipline and child management skills.  In both components of this program, parents are taught specific skills, and given the opportunity to practice these skills during therapy until mastery is acquired and the child's behavior is improved.

PCIT is appropriate for children who:

• are between the ages of 2 and 7 years of age.

• are exhibiting chronic behavior problems at home, school, preschool or daycare.

• may be on medication to manage their behavioral problems.

• live with caregivers (parents, foster parents, grandparents, etc.) who are willing to participate in treatment.

Referrals for services will be taken from parents, teachers, physicians, day care providers, and other child service professionals.

The charges for services are based on a sliding fee scale taking into consideration family size and income. No one will be refused services due to inability to pay.

For more information about Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT):

University of Florida

Auburn University

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Clinic

Central Michigan University