Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
PCIT is an evidence-based treatment for young children (ages 2 to 7) with disruptive behavior, such as noncompliance, aggression, tantrums and oppositional behavior. In PCIT, parents are taught specialized skills to help better manage challenging behavior while also improving the parent-child relationship. PCIT has been shown to increase children’s prosocial behavior and reduce parental stress.
PCIT at UB
The University at Buffalo offers PCIT services for families, as well as training in PCIT for community-based therapists.
PSC Now Offering Internet-Based PCIT (I-PCIT)!
Internet-based PCIT (I-PCIT) is now offered at the UB PSC. I-PCIT utilizes video conferencing to provide PCIT in a telehealth format. Like PCIT delivered in the PSC, I-PCIT provides real-time, in-session coaching and is designed to be short-term. Recent research has demonstrated the effectiveness of I-PCIT for enhancing parent-child relationships and improving overall child behavior. For additional information about I-PCIT and the technological requirements for I-PCIT, please contact us.
Information for Parents
PCIT is a short-term program that works with the child and caregiver together, to improve overall behavior, strengthen relationships, and decrease parenting stress. Through active skills training and supportive coaching, caregivers will learn a specialized set of skills to support children experiencing behavioral and/or emotional difficulties. For additional information, please view the PCIT Brochure or contact us. You may also access videos and other resources to learn more about the PCIT model.
Information for Professionals
PCIT training is available for community providers in the Western New York region. This intensive, year-long training includes the following:
- Initial 5-day (40-hour) workshop, hosted at UB or at your agency
- Biweekly case consultation for one year, during which time therapists actively provide PCIT to families
- Advanced 2-day (16-hour) workshop
- Review of up to six video-recorded sessions with your PCIT clients
- Treatment materials (PCIT protocol, DPICS coding manual)
Training is offered by Sarah Taber-Thomas, PhD, PCIT International Certified Regional (Level II) Trainer, and is structured to align with the nationally-approved training guidelines of PCIT International.
Currently, Prof. Taber-Thomas offers PCIT training annually, usually in the summer. For more information on upcoming trainings, or if you are interested in learning more about PCIT, please contact the Psychological Services Center or Prof. Taber-Thomas directly at (716) 645-6888.
Training FAQs
Q. Who can be trained in PCIT?
A. To be eligible for PCIT training, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Have a master’s degree or higher, or be currently completing their practicum/internship in a mental health field
- Be licensed or licensed-eligible (currently receiving supervision by a licensed provider)
Q. What materials and equipment do I need to provide PCIT?
A. The basic set-up for PCIT rooms includes a play room and adjacent observation room, with a one-way mirror for viewing into the play room. For more information on how to set up your space, please refer to the PCIT International Guidelines.
PCIT Observation Room
PCIT Play Room
Q. How much does training cost?
A. The all-inclusive fee for training, consultation and video-review is $3,500. Additional fees for those seeking continuing education credits may apply. Discounts are available for organizations seeking training for larger groups; please contact Prof. Taber-Thomas for details.
Contact Us
Psychological Services Center
Department of Psychology
University at Buffalo
168 Park Hall (North Campus)
(716) 645-3697
(716) 645-6186 (fax)
ub.psychservices@gmail.com