Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is a specialized, evidence-based approach that strengthens the parent-child relationship while teaching parents effective strategies to manage challenging behaviors. PCIT is designed to enhance communication, reduce defiance, and improve emotional regulation, fostering a more positive, structured, and loving home environment.

Areas of focus

  • 01

    Strengthening the Parent-Child Bond

    Teaching parents how to build a secure and trusting relationship through positive, child-led interactions.

  • Behavior Management & Positive Discipline

    Providing parents with real-time coaching on managing tantrums, defiance, and non-compliance using proven behavioral techniques.

  • Effective Communication Skills

    Helping parents develop clear and positive communication strategies to support emotional regulation and social growth.

  • Emotional Regulation & Self-Control

    Guiding parents on how to help children manage frustration, anxiety, and impulsivity through play-based and structured interactions.

  • Specialized Support for Children with ADHD, Autism & Behavioral Challenges

    Tailoring interventions for children with neurodevelopmental differences to support social, emotional, and behavioral success.

  • Creating a Structured, Nurturing Home Environment

    Supporting families in establishing routines, setting clear expectations, and maintaining consistency in discipline and rewards.

PCIT Coaching Strategies

1

Child-Directed Interaction (CDI)

Teaches parents to follow their child’s lead in play, enhancing the parent-child connection and trust.

2

Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI)

Equips parents with clear, consistent discipline techniques to reduce defiance and increase cooperation.

3

Real-Time Coaching

Parents receive live coaching and feedback from a trained therapist, allowing immediate adjustments in parenting strategies.

4

Praising & Reinforcing Positive Behaviors

Encouraging desired behaviors through warmth, praise, and positive reinforcement.

5

Setting Limits & Managing Challenging Behaviors

Teaching effective discipline techniques, including clear commands, consistency, and appropriate consequences.

6

Teaching Self-Regulation Through Play

Helping parents use structured play to model and teach emotional control.

Coaching Approach

Session format

  • Individualized Parent-Child Sessions with live coaching and interactive feedback
  • Small Group Parent Training for shared learning and peer support
  • At-Home Practice Assignments to reinforce PCIT strategies in daily routines

Book a free 15-min call with a specialist

Our Specialists

Therapy scenarios

Strengthening the Parent-Child Relationship

A mother and her 4-year-old son with frequent tantrums struggled with daily power struggles and defiance. Through PCIT coaching, she learned how to follow her child’s lead in play, use positive reinforcement, and set clear, consistent boundaries. Over time, their bond grew stronger, and tantrums significantly decreased as the child became more responsive to guidance.

Managing Aggressive Behaviors

The parents of a 5-year-old with impulsivity and aggression felt overwhelmed by daily meltdowns. With PCIT techniques, they practiced praising positive behaviors, giving effective commands, and using structured discipline strategies. After a few weeks, their child became more cooperative, used words instead of aggression, and followed instructions more consistently.

Helping a Child with ADHD Improve Self-Regulation

A 6-year-old with ADHD had difficulty following directions and managing frustration. Through PCIT coaching, parents learned how to give clear, direct commands, establish a structured routine, and use calm, effective discipline. Over time, their child became more engaged, better at transitioning between activities, and showed fewer emotional outbursts.

Supporting a Child with Autism in Social Interactions

A 4-year-old with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) had difficulty engaging in reciprocal play and following social cues. With PCIT’s child-directed approach, parents learned to use play to model social interactions, encourage back-and-forth communication, and provide consistent positive reinforcement. As a result, the child began engaging more in family activities and showed improved eye contact and social interactions.

Service Fee

Parent Coaching

Therapists 60 mins 90 mins 120 mins
Counsellor, Arts Therapist HK$1,800
Senior Counsellor HK$2,000
Educational Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist HK$2,200
Senior Doctoral-level Accredited Clinical Psychologist HK$2,800
BCBA Therapist HK$1,500 HK$2,250 HK$3,000
Book a free 15-min call with a specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PCIT only for children with behavioral problems?

No! PCIT is beneficial for any parent looking to improve their connection with their child and develop effective parenting strategies. It is especially helpful for children with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges.

How is PCIT different from traditional parent coaching?

Unlike traditional parent coaching, PCIT provides real-time, interactive feedback, helping parents practice new strategies in the moment with their child while being guided by a therapist.

Do I need to bring my child to every session?

PCIT has two phases:

  1. Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) – Parents build a stronger emotional connection with their child through positive play.
  2. Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI) – Parents learn structured discipline techniques to manage behaviors effectively.

Some sessions are for parents only, while others involve the child for live coaching and skill-building.