Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment program that assists parents of children with behavioral problems. PCIT focuses on promoting positive parent-child relationships while teaching parents the necessary skills to effectively manage their child's behavior problems.

PCIT is appropriate for:

• Children who are between the ages of 2 and 7 years
• Children who exhibit the following behavioral concerns:
  • Aggression toward parents, siblings, and/or other children
  • "Sassing" back to their parents
  • Refusing to follow directions
  • Frequent temper tantrums
  • Defiance
• Parents willing to participate in services and learn new techniques
• Parents who need to learn appropriate discipline methods
• Parents who want to improve the bond with their child

PCIT is NOT appropriate:

• If the participating parent has a severe untreated mental illness
• If there is ongoing, serious domestic violence in the home
• With a parent who has sexually offended against a child
• With a child with pervasive developmental disorders

For referrals or further information, please contact Christie Pelz at (509) 473-4829 or cpelz@partnerswithfamilies.org