Skip to content

Other ways to search: Events Calendar | UTHSC News

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) at the Center for Developmental Disabilities in Memphis, TN is a behavioral family-oriented therapy and an evidence-based practice for children with disruptive behavior problems between the ages of two and six. The PCIT clinic is managed by the psychology department, with psychology trainees and community providers serving as therapists. Supervision is provided by licensed psychologists and postdoctoral psychology fellows who have extensive training and expertise in the PCIT model.

Developed by Dr. Sheila Eyberg, President and CEO of PCIT International, PCIT integrates concepts from social learning theory, traditional play therapy, and attachment theory to enhance the parent-child relationship, increase children’s prosocial behaviors, and increase parents’ behavior management skills. The program is implemented in two phases: The first phase is the Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) phase during which parents develop child-centered interaction skills. The second phase is the Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI) phase during which effective discipline skills are the focus. PCIT gives equal attention to the development of the parent-child relationship and the development of parents’ behavior management skills.

A critical goal of PCIT is to increase positive, nurturing interactions by including the child and caregiver in treatment, both in session and during daily homework assignments. In contrast to the traditional approach to parent training that focuses on discussion and role play of techniques, caregivers in PCIT rehearse skills weekly in session through live interactions with their children. Further, during parent-child interactions, immediate feedback is given by the therapist from an observation room, while the parent wears a radio frequency earphone.

Services Provided to Families

The PCIT Clinic at CDD serves children functioning at the age of 2-6 years and their families. Children’s primary or secondary diagnoses typically include disruptive behavior disorders, (e.g. ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder) although children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, developmental delays, anxiety, or mood problems are also served. Clients are referred to the PCIT Clinic from CDD evaluations, as well as from the community. The typical population served is diverse in ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Services provided are billed under the supervisor.

The PCIT Clinics at CDD typically begin in late September to early October, and again in late January to early February. However, this schedule is subject to change, and there may be other appointment times depending on therapist availability. Sessions are once weekly and last 60-90 minutes each. Both the caregiver and child are expected to attend each session. This specialized program typically takes 16-20 weeks to complete, but is dependent on families consistently completing “homework” and attending scheduled sessions.

If a family is interested in PCIT services, it is highly recommended that they contact the PCIT Clinic as soon as possible, for there is typically a waitlist for services.

Last Published: May 26, 2022