What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)?
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is a research-backed approach that helps your child listen better, reduce tantrums, and feel more secure — while giving you practical tools that work. To accomplish these goals, PCIT involves 12 to 20 weekly sessions that focus on:
Child-directed Interaction
During this phase, the parent:
- follows the child’s lead
- uses PRIDE skills (Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe, and Enjoy)
- ignores annoying behavior
- controls dangerous behavior
During this phase, the child:
- develops good friendship skills (sharing, taking turns)
- focuses on tasks for longer periods of time
- becomes more connected to the parent
Parent-directed Interaction
During this phase, the parent:
- teaches the child to follow directions
- teaches the child to have good behavior at home and in public
During this phase, the child:
- learns to follow directions
- accepts limits
- develops good behavior at home and in public places
Who Is eligible for PCIT?
PCIT is available to all caregivers living in Philadelphia, including:
- Biological, foster, and adoptive parents
- Any adult responsible for raising a child
Your child may be a good fit if they:
- Are ages 2.5–7
- Experience:
- frequent tantrums or meltdowns
- difficulty listening or following directions
- aggressive behaviors (hitting, biting, or fighting)
- impulsivity or trouble sitting still
- challenges with sharing or playing independently
How PCIT Works
- We will bring PCIT to you. Our therapists bring out our mobile van equipped to deliver the service to meet you in a location that’s convenient for your family.
- You and your child attend 1-hour sessions together
- You play and interact with your child
- Your therapist coaches you in real time using an earpiece
- You practice new strategies with immediate support
- Over 12–20 sessions, you build confidence and see behavior improve
Check out our Mobile PCIT Van!
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Location and Hours
- 2300 W Allegheny Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19132
- Hours of Operation:
Open: Monday – Friday: 8:00AM-4:30PM
Closed: New Year’s Day, MLK Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day
Contact Us
For more information, please contact us: