Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Transforming Behaviors, Strengthening Connection
a family with young children playing with toys - happy
a family with young children playing with toys - happy

What is PCIT?

PCIT is a highly effective, evidence-based therapy designed to help parents and young children (ages 2 to 7) build stronger relationships while reducing disruptive behaviors. During PCIT, I work with you in real-time to coach and empower you with strategies tailored to your child’s unique needs.

PCIT isn’t just about fixing behaviors—it’s about giving you the tools to enjoy parenting again and helping your child feel more secure, confident, and understood.

Who is PCIT For?

PCIT is designed for families with children ages 2 to 7 who are struggling with behaviors such as:

  • Frequent defiance and refusal to follow adult requests.

  • Easily losing their temper over small frustrations.

  • Purposefully annoying others (e.g., siblings, classmates).

  • Difficulty sitting still or following directions.

  • Challenges playing quietly or taking turns.

  • Tantrums that feel constant or overwhelming.

  • Destruction of property or aggressive outbursts.

a family sitting on the floor of a living room
a family sitting on the floor of a living room

It’s also ideal for parents who want to:

  • Create a calmer, more positive home environment.

  • Deepen their connection with their child.

  • Feel more confident, patient, and in control.

Benefits of PCIT

Parents who commit to PCIT see transformational results, including:

  • Fewer power struggles and more cooperative behaviors.

  • A noticeable reduction in tantrums, defiance, and aggression.

  • Improved focus, listening, and emotional regulation in their child.

  • Increased parenting confidence and tools for handling challenges.

  • A stronger, more secure relationship with their child.

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Jessie Cantrell, LPC - Therapist in Missouri
Jessie Cantrell, LPC - Therapist in Missouri
Many families experience relief and hope after just a few sessions as they see real progress—and those changes often last long after therapy ends.

Jessie Cantrell, Therapist

How Does PCIT Work?

PCIT is structured into two main phases:

1. Child-Directed Interaction (CDI):

  • Focuses on your relationship with your child by creating positive, stress-free interactions while building their confidence, social skills, and positive behaviors. They develop a desire to want interactions with you and others that builds pride and brings joy!!!

2. Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI):

  • Helps you and your partner set clear limits and directions, establish consistent consequences, and work together as a unified team. This way, your child understands the expectations and knows that the consequences will be the same from both of you!

During sessions, I’ll coach you in real-time through a small earpiece as you practice these skills with your child, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way!

a woman and two children playing with blocks
a woman and two children playing with blocks

How Virtual PCIT Works

During virtual PCIT sessions, we use secure video conferencing to connect. You’ll position your phone, tablet, or laptop in the room so I can see you and your child interact. You’ll wear one earpiece to hear my coaching while still being able to hear and engage with your child. This setup allows me to guide you in real-time as you apply the techniques and make progress together.

Laptop
Laptop
Virtual Set up for PCIT
Virtual Set up for PCIT
PCIT ear piece
PCIT ear piece

This approach allows me to stay in the background so you are seen as the trusted, supportive adult in your child's eyes. While giving you a real-time therapist guiding & supporting you through each step, ensuring you feel confident and empowered in the moment.

Why Choose PCIT & me?

As a PCIT-certified therapist and a mother of two young children in this age range, I not only teach these strategies—I use them in my own home.

I believe in PCIT because I've watched it be effective and make impactful change for many families I've worked with and for my own family. These skills have helped me navigate tantrums, big emotions, and power struggles with my own children, and I’m passionate about helping other parents feel in control and a sense of ease!

Parenting doesn't have to be this hard!

Whether you’re facing defiance, tantrums, or simply want to feel more connected with your child, PCIT is that tool that you have been looking for!

👉 Contact me today to discover how PCIT can transform you and your child into having more joyful moments!

Jessie Cantrell, LPC - Therapist in Missouri
Jessie Cantrell, LPC - Therapist in Missouri

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