Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

At Relational Foundations Institute, we also specialize in evidence-based, play-focused therapies that strengthen the bond between parents and young children while reducing family stress. One of our primary services is Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a gold-standard treatment for families with children ages 2–7 who are experiencing disruptive or challenging behaviors.

 

As certified PCIT providers, we offer parents live, hands-on coaching during play to promote positive behaviors, improve communication, and develop effective discipline strategies that foster warmth, consistency, and confidence in parenting. For families with younger children, we also provide PCIT–Toddler, an adaptation designed for toddlers ages 12–24 months who may be showing early signs of emotional or attachment difficulties. These sessions use play as the foundation for learning, giving parents practical tools to support emotional regulation, respond calmly, and nurture secure, trusting relationships from the very beginning.

 

Whether the focus is reducing conflict, strengthening attachment, or supporting social-emotional development, our parent–child therapies create a supportive environment where parents feel empowered and children feel safe and understood.

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Our Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) services support families navigating a wide

range of challenges, including:

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• Emotion dysregulation

• Frequent tantrums or emotional outbursts

• Aggressive or defiant behaviors

• Difficulty following directions or routines

• Parent–child conflict and power struggles

• Challenges with attention, focus, or impulsivity

• Struggles with discipline and setting limits

 

Through PCIT, families also gain:

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• Stronger, more positive parent–child interactions

• Greater consistency, confidence, and warmth in parenting

• Effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors

• Improved communication between parent and child

• Reduced stress for both parents and children

• A more secure, trusting bond within the family