Now offering Parent child interaction therapy with toddlers! (virtual only)

PCIT-T implements novel components for the special needs of toddlers, including specific procedures for promoting the attachment relationship and emotion regulation in both caregivers and children. Central to the model is the understanding that difficult behaviors in toddlers are a sign of emotion dysregulation rather than deliberate defiance. With the assistance of a nurturing and sensitive caregiver, the child’s capacity to manage emotion develops. The CARES model of PCIT-T involves coaching parents to come in close, assist, reassure, validate emotions, and soothe when the toddlers experience the “big emotions” characteristic of this age range. Parents are also coached in their own set of adult CARES skills designed to promote relaxation and positive self-talk during stressful parenting situations.  Finally, PCIT-T includes an adapted parent-directed interaction in which children learn to follow directions through a tell-show-try again-guide procedure and labeled praise for listening. Appropriate candidates may demonstrate:

• Tantrums

• Aggression (e.g., hitting, biting, pinching)

• Fussiness (e.g., screaming, whining, crying)

•  Anger, frustration, head-banging

• Attachment difficulties (e.g., rejection of parent, difficult to comfort)

• Separation anxiety or withdrawal from parent

• Developmental concerns (e.g., autistic behaviors, language problems)

• Child abuse and neglect

• Parental stress (e.g., anxiety, dissatisfaction, difficulty coping, lack of confidence)