Evidence-Based Treatments and Helpful Adjustments for Different Brain-Based Needs

Parent Management Trainings (PMTs)

Programs like Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) help parents improve their relationship with their child and manage behavior challenges effectively.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps people recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors that cause emotional distress. It teaches healthy thinking habits and coping skills to improve emotional regulation.

Adjustments for Specific Needs:

• If the child or caregiver has a low IQ → Slow down the treatment, repeat important information over multiple sessions.

• If the child’s developmental level is younger than their actual age → Use simple, step-by-step instructions with lots of repetition.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT teaches skills like mindfulness, managing emotions, and handling stress in a healthy way. It helps people balance accepting themselves with making positive changes. It was originally designed for people with borderline personality disorder but is helpful for others, too.

Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI)

TBRI is a therapy for children who have experienced trauma. It focuses on building trust, improving emotional regulation, and strengthening relationships using connection, empowerment, and correction strategies.

Adjustments for Specific Needs:

• If the client struggles with memory or applying skills outside of sessions → Teach one skill at a time over multiple sessions, involve caregivers, and have them practice with the child daily. Record videos of skills so they can review at home.

• If the child has trouble remembering things and thinks very literally → Focus on one simple rule at a time, use role-play, and repeat lessons often to reinforce learning.