Parent-Child Interaction Therapy has two primary goals:

• To enhance a positive relationship between caregiver and child.
• To promote effective behavior management and discipline techniques.

To accomplish goals, PCIT is conducted through 12 to 20 weekly sessions that uses two types of interactions.

Child-Directed Interaction

• The parent/caregiver follows the child's lead
• PRIDE skills: Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe, Enthusiasm
• Ignore annoying behavior
• Control dangerous behavior

Parent-Directed Interaction

• Parents learn how to help their children behave
• Parents learn how to help their children listen

Who Benefits?

Children (Ages 2-7)

• Refuse or defy adult requests
• Lose temper easily
• Purposely annoy others
• Steal things
• Destroy things
• Start fights or hurt others
• Have trouble staying seated
• Have trouble playing quietly
• Have trouble taking turns

Caregivers

• Parents
• Foster parents
• Adoptive parents
• Legal guardians
• Residential caregiver staff

Caregivers are the heart of the program. PCIT cares for caregivers.

How well does it work?

PCIT is an evidence-based treatment that has demonstrated clinical improvements in the behavior of pre-school-aged children. Research shows children's behavior is usually within the normal range after 12 to 20 weekly sessions. Parents and other caregivers report being highly satisfied with the treatment process and results.

Positive Changes Reported

• Improved communication between parents and children
• Improved listening skills
• Fewer family disruptions
• Better attention skills on the part of the child
• Improved compliance with parent's direction and requests
• Improved language development
• Enhanced social skills

Most importantly, children participating in PCIT with their parents or other caregivers increase their chances of reaching their full potential.

Treatment Locations:

• 335 South Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. Phone number: (570) 825-6425
• 133 West Tioga Street, Tunkhannock, PA 18657. Phone number: (570) 836-2722
• 20 North Laurel Street, Hazleton, PA 18201. Phone number: (570) 497-4282
• 840 Main Street, Honesdale, PA 18431. Phone number: (570) 253-0321

Direct Contact