Psychology department receives grant funds for vital training

News and Announcements | February 7, 2024 | Cook Children's Psychology

The Jane and John Justin Institute for Mind Health, Department of Psychology, was recently awarded funding from the Blue Peaks Giving Circle and Jewel Charity to provide specialized training in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for 25 Cook Children’s psychologists and family therapists. PCIT is an evidence-based outpatient treatment program designed for caregivers and young children (ages 2-6 years) who are experiencing pronounced social, behavioral and/or emotional difficulties. PCIT focuses on improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and changing interaction patterns. It is particularly effective in providing parents with skills to manage their child’s most challenging behaviors. Children and caregivers are treated together in PCIT sessions and clinicians provide intensive coaching to improve attachment in Phase One, and improve behavioral compliance in Phase Two. Outcomes of PCIT include decreased tantrums, improved emotional regulation for parents and children, increased attention and pro-social behaviors in children, as well as improved trust between parent and child.

PCIT is currently offered through the Developmental Psychology Department of the Justin Institute. This additional training will greatly expand access to PCIT within the institute and other Cook Children’s outpatient Psychology clinics across Tarrant, Denton and Collin Counties. Currently there are only three providers of PCIT in Tarrant County. The award, allowing caregivers to receive this vital training, is truly a gift to the families that we serve.

Eight psychologists and family therapists from the Justin Institute will participate and complete their training by May 2024.

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