Parent Child Interaction Therapy

Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based, short-term treatment designed to help young children (2-7 years old) with behavioral issues. PCIT treats the parent, the child, and most importantly their interactions.

PCIT is done in two treatment phases

Phase 1

Dad and young boy paying cars while lying on the floor in a living room.

The first phase of treatment focuses on establishing warmth in the relationship between parent/caregiver and child.  This is done through learning and applying skills proven to help children feel calm, secure in their relationships with their parents/caregivers, and good about themselves.

This phase is built upon the work of Filial Therapy.

Phase 2

The second phase of treatment will equip the parent/caregiver to manage the most challenging of their child’s behaviors while remaining confident, calm, and consistent in their approach to discipline.

In this phase, parents/caregivers will learn proven strategies to help their child accept limits, comply with direction, respect house rules, and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public. ​

The PCIT Program is made possible by a grant from the Oregon Health Authority.

Since 2019, a grant from OHA has provided funding for our PCIT program. These funds have allowed us to complete facility updates, purchase necessary equipment and supplies, provide therapist training and scholarships, and implement advertising campaigns to increase awareness about PCIT.