Your mind catches, and almost shorts out.

That child of yours just hurled the F-word at you.

Time slows down; you realize you’re in uncharted territory.

Pausing, you know that your reaction is important…but what are you supposed to do?

Most of us parents deal with behavior problems at some time.

Kids don’t come with instruction manuals. Of course, there are plenty of times you find yourself out in the weeds – way out of your element.

Parent Management Training (PMT) is an evidence-based treatment program for caregivers of kids with moderate to severe behavioral issues. Caregivers work with a trained therapist on a weekly basis, either in person or via zoom.

You are given the necessary tools to diffuse the bad behaviors, and encourage positive ones.

Guardians then have the necessary tools to diffuse the bad behaviors, and encourage positive ones. Rather than feeling completely powerless, you are given tools so you know what to do.

You know being a parent is not a walk in the park and you already have your share of challenges.

But sometimes, intuitively you get the sense that there’s more to it. Also if you don’t deal with it the right way, it may turn into something worse.

Now, this is not something to ignore and hope it goes away. Nor is it something to indulge and give in to, in a miserable attempt to restore peace.

There can be a multitude of reasons behind behavior problems – there’s not a one size fits all solution.

Ways to approach these problems:

Impose Consequences

There are consequences to your actions, and that we don’t always get what we want. In an era of smartphones, with the instant satisfaction of being able to listen to the song whenever you want, it is difficult for kids to wait for other things. Therefore, it is crucial that youngsters learn what it’s like to not get their way all the time.

Depending on your child’s age and the nature of their behavior issue, here are a few ways of addressing problematic behavior:

• Give time outs, or don’t allow them to participate in something they want to do, such as a game, as a consequence for bad behavior

• Confiscate tablets or smartphones, or limit their use

• Take away video games for a predetermined amount of time

• Ground them, not allow them to see their friends or engage in social activities after school

Reinforce Positive Behavior

Positive reinforcement is a powerful way to encourage children to repeat healthy behaviors by focusing on what they’re doing right rather than only pointing out mistakes. When children feel seen and appreciated for their efforts, they’re more motivated to keep making good choices. Here are a few practical ways to incorporate it into daily life:

• Offer specific praise. Instead of “good job,” say, “I really appreciate how you shared your toys with your sister.”
• Use tangible rewards. Small treats, stickers, or extra playtime can reinforce positive behavior.
• Celebrate effort, not just results.  Acknowledge when they try hard, even if the outcome isn’t perfect.
• Model gratitude and encouragement. Let them see you valuing kindness, effort, and cooperation in everyday life.

Learn Parent Management Training

There are ways to influence behavior and this training helps you learn them.

This treatment model is so effective, it’s even featured on the CDC’s website.

Eliminating these behaviors is important. Children carry many of their behaviors with them into adulthood, Per the Parent Management Training Institute,

“Behavioral problems are the most common psychiatric disorders in children and persist into adulthood in about 50% of cases. The cost to families and society are high and impact many public sector agencies.”

We Can Help

If you’re at your wits end, and the rest of the family is starting to suffer, the Relationship Therapy Center can help. Our therapists are trained in the PMT method, and want to empower you, so you in turn can empower your child.

Additionally, showing them there are other, healthier ways of getting their needs met, and setting them up for a meaningful, productive future.

Begin PMT Counseling in Roseville or Fair Oaks, CA today!

If you and your child are struggling one of the best things you can do is be proactive in getting help from a trained therapist. With help and support you and your child can overcome the things that are troubling them and move forward in your life with more confidence and peace. Our counseling practice offers specialized PMT and child counseling services by certified therapists at both of our locations.  Your child, and your family, can get to a better place. Our therapists are here to help.

To begin counseling in Fair Oaks, CA, Roseville, CA or online, follow these steps

• Contact the Relationship Therapy Center and schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation to learn more about in-person or online therapy

• Make an appointment to meet with one of our compassionate therapists,

• Get the support you need to navigate adolescent challenges with confidence!

Other Counseling Services at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:

In addition to PMT therapy, Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Couples Counseling, Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include anxiety treatment, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, codependency counseling and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones.