Specifications include, but are not limited to: PCIT services, implemented through the Family First Prevention Services Plan, will be universally offered to children between the ages of 2-7 years with emotional or behavioral issues and to their parents and caregivers residing in the State of Connecticut. There is no income eligibility requirement to receive BSFT services. PCIT services utilizes dyadic therapy that is conducted through "coaching" sessions where a therapist monitors parent and child interactions and communicates with the parent to build caregiver skills to manage the child's behavior. PCIT therapy is implemented in two phases: 1) the Child-Directed Interaction Phase (CDI) where parents develop child-centered interaction skills to enhance the parent-child relationship; and (2) the Parent-Directed Interaction Phase (PDI) where caregivers learn additional behavior management skills. PCIT typically lasts between 10 and 20 sessions, each lasting 60 to 90 minutes. Treatment time will vary based on each family’s needs. The PCIT therapist will teach caregivers to effectively change child behavior in real-time while caregivers are playing with their children. PCIT utilizes Constance Hanf’s two-stage model by integrating components of social learning theory, attachment theory, developmental theory, behavioral principles, and traditional play therapy. The different techniques of PCIT therapy include praise, reflection, imitation, behavioral description, enjoyment, direct commands, and time-out. PCIT helps by encouraging positive interactions between parents and children and by training parents how to implement consistent and nonviolent discipline techniques when children act out.
