What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)?

Written By Lauren Oddo

Parenting can be incredibly rewarding—and it can also come with real challenges, especially when young children struggle with ADHD and behavior or emotional regulation. One evidence-based approach that has helped many families is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).

PCIT is a form of therapy designed for young children (ages 2–7) and their parent(s) or caregiver(s), with novel adaptations for toddlers (12-24 months) and older children (7-10 years old). PCIT works by strengthening the relationship between parent and child while also teaching concrete skills for managing difficult behaviors (e.g., tantrums, not listening).

PCIT has two key phases. Parents first learn how to build a warm, positive connection with their child using specialized play therapy skills. This helps children feel safe, understood, and more willing to cooperate. Next, parents learn how to set clear expectations, give effective instructions, and follow through with consistent consequences.

One unique aspect of PCIT is that it’s live and interactive. A PCIT-certified therapist observes parent-child interactions (through a one-way mirror or video setup) and coaches the parent live using an earpiece. This immediate feedback helps parents practice new skills "in the moment." Parents often say that live coaching helps them build skills more quickly, and that having someone else observe and reflect what they’re seeing feels validating and highly supportive.

PCIT is well-supported by research, with multiple studies and meta-analyses showing it can meaningfully reduce child behavior problems such as tantrums, aggression, and defiance (Thomas & Zimmer-Gembeck, 2011; Ward et al., 2020). It has also been found to improve child compliance across various family structures and situations (Thomas et al., 2017). Beyond child behavior, PCIT also supports parents and caregivers. Families who complete PCIT often report a reduction in parenting stress, more confidence in their parenting skills, and enhanced caregiver–child relationships (Skowron et al., 2024; Thomas et al., 2017; Ward et al., 2020).

The research supporting PCIT is strong, but child and family therapy is always evolving! New studies help refine what works best for each family. We combine evidence-based practices, like PCIT, with flexibility. We often tailor our approach to your family’s unique needs, values, and goals to build lasting skills and stronger connections.

If you would like further readings on PCIT and related interventions like Behavioral Parent Training, please consider these materials below. Those who are interested in pursuing PCIT are welcome to contact Dr. Lauren Oddo directly (loddo@richmondfamilypsychology.com or (804) 214-6412) or complete an inquiry request. 

Peer-Reviewed Empirical Articles

  • Skowron, E. A., Nekkanti, A. K., Skoranski, A. M., Scholtes, C. M., Lyons, E. R., Mills, K. L., Bard, D., Rock, A., Berkman, E., Bard, E., & Funderburk, B. W. (2024). Randomized trial of parent-child interaction therapy improves child-welfare parents' behavior, self-regulation, and self-perceptions. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, 92(2), 75–92. https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000859

  • Thomas, R., & Zimmer-Gembeck, M. J. (2011). Accumulating evidence for parent–child interaction therapy in the prevention of child maltreatment. Child Development, 82(1), 177–192.

  • Thomas, R., Abell, B., Webb, H. J., Avdagic, E., & Zimmer-Gembeck, M. J. (2017). Parent–child interaction therapy: A meta-analysis. Pediatrics, 140(3), e20170352.

  • Ward, M. A., Theule, J., & Cheung, K. (2020). Parent–child interaction therapy for child disruptive behavior disorders: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 80, 101892.

Self-Help Books

  • Your Defiant Child: Eight Steps to Better Behavior Second Edition by Russell Barkley and Christine Benton

  • Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents Fourth Edition by Russell A. Barkley

Web Resources

Lauren Oddo
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