Professionals: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs for Therapists
What is the cost to be trained in PCIT?
What materials/equipment do I need to do PCIT?
I’d like to use the DPICS but won’t be conducting PCIT. How do I become a reliable DPICS coder?
Can I do PCIT if I am not certified?
How do I become certified?
Do I need to use the ECBI in every session?
Can I do PCIT with children with co-occurring disorders like autism?
What is PCIT's stance on the use of time-outs?
What is Teacher Child Interaction Training?
Where can I get help with clinical questions I have about the families I am currently working with?
What is the cost to be trained in PCIT?
- The cost of training varies by type of training (therapist vs. trainer) and trainer
- For more specific information regarding the cost of training, feel free to check out upcoming trainings or contact Global Trainers or Regional Trainers I trainers directly.
What materials/equipment do I need to do PCIT?
- More information about room set-up and suggested materials can be found here.
- Each agency may use a different configuration other than those listed on pcit.org to ensure HIPAA compliance and/or agency specifications.
I’d like to use the DPICS but won’t be conducting PCIT. How do I become a reliable DPICS coder?
- Consider contacting Global Trainers to learn about possible training options specifically related to the DPICS.
Can I do PCIT if I am not certified?
- Read here for the benefits of getting certified by PCIT International
How do I become certified?
- Learn more about the certification process here.
Do I need to use the ECBI in every session?
- The ECBI provides valuable information from the caregiver's perspective about the intensity and impact of the child's disruptive behaviors. Caregiver response on specific items in the ECBI can be used to guide coaching.
- The ECBI should, at minimum, be administered at pre-treatment, at the PDI Teach Session, and at the end of treatment.
- If the ECBI is not administered at every session, it is recommended that clinicians use a free alternative measure, such as the Weekly Assessment of Child Behavior (WACB) or the Psychosocial Strengths Inventory for Children and Adolescents (PSICA). Results should be graphed and shared with families throughout treatment to guide progress and provide feedback.
- Additional details and guidance can be found here.
Can I do PCIT with children with co-occurring disorders like autism?
- There is consistent evidence that PCIT can be helpful in reducing disruptive behaviors in children with ASD. However, PCIT is not designed to be a stand-alone treatment for ASD. See PCIT literature for additional details.
What is PCIT's stance on the use of time-outs?
- PCIT International endorses the use of time-out within the context of the following position statement
What is Teacher Child Interaction Training?
- Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT) was adapted from PCIT.
- TCIT is a live coaching classroom intervention for young children.
- TCIT focuses on enhancing teacher-student relationships and implementing effective classroom behavior management techniques.
Where can I get help with clinical questions I have about the families I am currently working with?
- Certified PCIT therapists have the option to participate in monthly group consultation calls
- There is also a Certified PCIT Therapist Listserv where consultation questions can be submitted.
- If additional consultation is required, consider contacting Global Trainers or Regional Trainers in your area.
