Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Continuing Education for children ages 2–7 who need extra support with big feelings and behaviors
At Creative Continuum Therapy, PCIT helps you feel more confident as a parent while helping your child feel more connected, secure, and able to listen and cooperate.
What Is PCIT?
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment backed by decades of research. It is designed for young children who are experiencing behavioral or emotional challenges.
PCIT focuses on two things at the same time:
Strengthening your relationship with your child
Teaching you clear, effective ways to manage behavior
This approach is grounded in attachment and balanced parenting. You will learn how to combine warmth and connection with consistent structure and follow-through.
One thing that makes PCIT unique is live coaching. During sessions, your therapist observes you interacting with your child and gently coaches you in real time through a small earpiece. You are supported in the moment, not just after the fact.
Families often notice:
Fewer behavior challenges
Less stress and frustration
Stronger connection with their child
Lasting results that continue well beyond therapy
Who Is PCIT For?
PCIT is a great fit for families with children ages 2–7 who may be:
Having frequent tantrums or big emotional reactions
Struggling to listen or follow directions
Showing aggressive or defiant behavior
Having difficulty with attention or impulse control
It is also helpful for parents who want more tools, more confidence, and a calmer home environment.
How the Process Works
PCIT happens in two phases. Each phase builds on the other.
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You will learn how to follow your child’s lead in play and strengthen your connection.
You will practice skills that help your child feel:
Seen
Safe
Enjoyed
These skills are often called PRIDE:
Praise
Reflection
Imitation
Description
Enjoyment
This phase lays the foundation for cooperation.
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Once the relationship is strong, you will learn how to guide behavior more effectively.
You will learn how to:
Give clear, direct instructions
Set consistent limits
Follow through calmly with consequences
This phase helps reduce challenging behaviors and increases listening and cooperation.
Your Options: Choosing the Right Format
We offer two ways to complete PCIT so you can choose what fits your family best.
Option 1: A La Carte (Weekly Sessions)
Best for families who prefer a steady, flexible pace
One 60-minute session per week
Ongoing guidance and coaching
Pay per session
Good fit if you:
Want to integrate PCIT gradually into your routine
Prefer spreading out the financial investment
Like consistent weekly support
Option 2: Intensive Model
Best for families who want faster results and a more immersive experience
Multiple sessions per week over a shorter time frame
More concentrated coaching and feedback
Accelerated skill development
Good fit if you:
Want quicker progress
Have a flexible schedule for a short period of time
Prefer a focused, high-support approach
What to Expect
Telehealth Format
PCIT is delivered through secure telehealth and is just as effective as in-person care.
In many cases, it works even better because:
You are practicing in your real home environment
Your therapist can coach you through real-life situations
You will receive support setting up your space and technology before starting.
Who Participates
You and your child attend sessions together
One or both caregivers can participate
There are a few parent-only teaching sessions at the start of each phase
Session Structure
Each session is about 60 minutes and typically includes:
Check In
You’ll talk through how the week went and review your practice.Live Coaching
You play with your child while your therapist coaches you in real time through earbuds.Feedback
You’ll receive clear, supportive guidance on what is working and what to adjust.Plan for the Week
You’ll leave with a simple, specific plan to practice at home.
Pricing
Pricing varies based on the format you choose.
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Per-session rate
Pay as you go
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Bundled pricing for a structured program
Designed for a shorter, more concentrated experience
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We will walk you through both options and help you choose what makes the most sense for your:
Schedule
Budget
Goals for your child and family
How to Get Started
Step One:
Reach out to schedule an initial consultation
Step Two:
We will assess fit and answer your questions
Step Three:
You will choose the format that works best for your family
Step Four:
We will guide you through setup and your first session