Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): an Evidence-Based Treatment
PCIT was developed by Sheila Eyberg in the early 1970s and continues to be recognized as an effective and proven evidence-based form of treatment worldwide earning the highest scientific rating (1, meaning well-supported by research evidence) by the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare. Research has also shown PCIT to have lasting benefits.
Who Benefits From PCIT
Targeted for children, ages 2-6, and their caregivers, PCIT is a behavior-based and parent coaching program designed to strengthen the parent-child relationship and decrease behaviors such as aggression, defiance, short temper, and non-compliance. The goal of PCIT is to help adapt negative behaviors into more positive behaviors. Children who participate in PCIT may increase their self-esteem, have less anger and frustration, improve social skills, feel more safe and calm, and communicate more effectively. Parents will gain confidence when dealing with child behaviors, both at and away from home, by learning consistent and predictable parenting techniques which can reduce parental stress.
What To Expect In Session
The length of PCIT is typically 16-20 weekly sessions, that includes two phases. The first two sessions are information gathering and establishing a baseline of interaction. Next the caregiver(s) will meet with the therapist for the first phase teaching, known as CDI (child-directed interaction). CDI emphasizes building on the bond between the caregiver(s) and child. After the teaching session, the caregiver(s) and child return for CDI sessions. Caregivers follow the child’s lead in play while being coached by the therapist. This skill building phase utilizes the use of PRIDE skills (praise, reflect, imitate, describe, and enjoy). Once the caregiver(s) meet mastery they will move on to phase two.
Phase two will begin with the caregiver(s) participating in the second teaching session for PDI, parent-directed interaction. The teach session will educate the caregiver(s) on how to provide clear, consistent, and direct instructions to the child incorporating effective consequences. After the teaching session, the caregiver(s) and the child return for the remaining sessions until they meet mastery and are ready for graduation.
Limitations to PCIT
Although PCIT is an effective treatment approach for many childhood concerns, there are some situations where PCIT would not be recommended. These would include parents having little to no contact with their children, parents/caregivers who have a hearing or language impairment, parents/caregivers experiencing mental health concerns that include having hallucinations or delusions, and parents/caregiver(s) who are experiencing difficulties with substance use, and parents/caregivers who have been abusive.
PCIT Therapist
Just like a family receives education and training, a therapist providing PCIT also goes through training. A PCIT therapist is required to be certified or in-training for PCIT certification. You can identify a therapist with certification on the PCIT International website registered under the providers page. Most agencies list PCIT certified therapists on their website as well.
Lori Cull-Deshmukh, LMSW, CPT