Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an innovative and highly effective dyadic (parents/caregivers are always seen together) approach designed to strengthen the bond between parents and children while addressing behavioral and emotional challenges.
This evidence-based therapy is structured around two main phases, each focusing on specific aspects of the parent-child relationship and behavior management. The first phase, Child-Directed Interaction (CDI), emphasizes enhancing the quality of the parent-child relationship to build a positive and secure environment where children feel valued, understood, and connected. The skills learned in CDI prepare the ground for improved behavior, fostering strong, nurturing bonds. The second phase, Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI), focuses on effective discipline and behavior management, teaching parents to establish clear expectations and rules.
PCIT uniquely offers live coaching, where therapists guide parents in real-time, using one-way mirrors or live video feeds for direct feedback. This hands-on, real-time coaching approach ensures that parents/caregivers feel supported and confident in their skills.
In order to ensure accessibility to PCIT, Psychology Centre Newcastle provides PCIT via telehealth, making it accessible to families who cannot attend in-person sessions. In PCIT treatment via telehealth, parents and children participate in sessions together, ensuring that they receive simultaneous, interactive guidance and support, regardless of their physical location.