PARENT-CHILD INTERACTION THERAPY

Parenting young children can be incredibly rewarding. But it can also be challenging when a child struggles with frequent tantrums, aggression, defiance, or difficulty managing emotions. At the OLV Human Services' Outpatient Clinic, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) provides families with proven tools to strengthen relationships and create calmer, more positive home environments.

PCIT is an evidence-based therapy designed for children ages 2 to 7 and their caregivers. Through live coaching and guided interactions, therapists help parents learn practical skills that support positive behavior, strengthen communication, and build a more secure parent-child connection.

At OLV Human Services, four of our therapists, including the program’s Clinical Supervisor, are trained in PCIT. This specialized training allows us to meet the growing need for effective behavioral and mental health support for young children and their families.

How PCIT Helps Families

PCIT focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship while teaching caregivers consistent, supportive ways to guide behavior. Through this approach, families can:

• Reduce tantrums, aggression, and defiant behavior
• Improve a child’s emotional regulation
• Strengthen communication and connection between parent and child
• Build confidence in parenting strategies
• Create more positive experiences at home and at school

By reshaping the social environment around a child—including family and classroom interactions—PCIT helps foster a child’s social, emotional, and intellectual development.

Support for Children with Developmental Needs

PCIT has also proven helpful for families whose children have developmental disabilities such as Autism or ADHD. OLV’s trained therapists work closely with caregivers to adapt strategies that support each child’s individual strengths and needs.

A Partnership with Parents

PCIT is unique because parents are active participants in every session. With real-time coaching from trained therapists, caregivers gain the skills and confidence they need to guide behavior and strengthen their relationship with their child. Families often see meaningful improvements in behavior, reduced stress in the home, and greater success in school and social settings.

If you would like to learn more about Parent Child Interaction Therapy at OLV Human Services, or schedule a consultation, please call (716) 828-9651.