Parent�child interaction therapy

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Play therapy had been found to be effective among children and behaviour therapy has been found to efficient to bring about changes in a short span of time when applied aptly. The two have been successfully integrated in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) which involves both young children and their parents or caregivers for speedy recovery. The adults is grained and instructed to practice new skills and techniques so that they relate to children with emotional or behavior problems, developmental disabilities, mental health disorders or  language issues.

What to expect?

The child is allowed to play with the parent and the caregiver in one room, while the observation is made by the therapist and coaches from an adjacent chamber which is  equipped with a one-way mirror. The therapist makes necessary communication with the adults through an earphone, rendering training and guidance. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to use positive language and to ignore harmless negative behaviors and in the process show enthusiasm and praise for positive behaviors of the child. In the process other skills can also be taught like reflecting the child’s language back to him or her to enhance communication, describing or speaking out loud what the child is doing to enhance the child’s vocabulary, imitating and acting out the child’s good behavior to demonstrate approval and reinforce them.

How does it Work?

In the process of therapy as the parent or the caregiver learn to interact and effectively deal with the child, there is significant change evident in the behaviour of the child.. therefore, it can be stated in a nutshell that, PCIT can help in improving family dynamics through reducing negative behaviour and negative worded interaction within the family and proceed by  incorporating novice behaviors and ways of communicating which are usually more encouraging and reassuring. Upon proper practice and implementation, these new skills and techniques can bring about more confidence, result in reduction of anger and aggression, encouraging better individual as well as interactive behavior in both the parent (or the caregiver) and the child.

When is it Used?

The aim of the therapy being better and enhanced child and parent interaction and hence a better family structure, the therapy is not typically an answer to any disease model, in other words it does not aim at symptom relief. However it have been increasingly used for children of ages 2 to 7 and have been found effective for children whohave experienced trauma,  exhibit disruptive behavior and also those children who are diagnosed with the autism spectrum disorders. It have also proved its worth in treating children who exhibit juvenile delinquency.
 
Role of a Parent-Child Interaction Therapist:

PCIT therapists, social workers, and counselors usually work in a clinical setting. The therapist in this therapeutic process after recording the necessary information in the case record file acts as an active observer. As the therapy proceeds, the child and the primary caregivers are allowed to interact in a separate room or cubicle which the therapist only observes from a different room and instructs the parents to interact in a way that is constructive.

REFERENCE