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Jason CheneyMesa Valley Counseling

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PCIT Intake Paperwork and Statement of Understanding

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy policies, family history, and consent drawn from Mesa Valley Counseling’s 2026 PCIT intake packet.

Parent or caregiver of the child in PCIT. Allow about 20 minutes. Please complete this on a private computer or phone.

This form is sent over a secure connection. Please do not complete it on a shared or public computer.

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What PCIT is

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy is an evidence-based treatment for parents of young children, typically ages 2 to 7, who are showing challenging behaviors. A certified therapist coaches the parent in real time during play and everyday interactions. Child-Directed Interaction (CDI) builds warmth through PRIDE skills: Praise, Reflect, Imitate, Describe, and Enjoy. Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI) teaches clear commands and consistent, calm discipline. Most families finish in about 12–20 weekly hour-long sessions. Progress is based on skill mastery, not a fixed calendar. PCIT is not reunification therapy, family-systems therapy, or joint parent counseling.

When PCIT is court-involved

If the court is involved, both parents support the child’s progress. The custodial parent schedules promptly, does not coach the child on what to say, and keeps session content private. The participating parent attends consistently, practices PRIDE and guidance skills, and completes brief home practice. Written communication is limited. Concerns should be emailed with the other parent copied, except when a protective order or verified domestic violence requires separate contact. Releases are required before the therapist speaks with attorneys or other professionals. Time spent on third-party communication is billable. This practice does not give legal advice.

Caregiver and household information

Child information

Reason for seeking PCIT

Current impact of these behaviors on your family *
Not stressfulExtremely stressful

Developmental, medical, and family history

Any delays in speech, motor skills, or social development? *
Has your child experienced traumatic events (abuse, neglect, loss, separation, medical trauma, or violence)? *
Are you currently experiencing high stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms?

Coaching, contacts, and insurance

Are you comfortable with live observation or video recording of interactions for coaching? Recordings stay confidential and are used only for treatment. *
Other services of interest

Consent and signatures

This information is used only for treatment planning. PCIT focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship through positive interaction skills and effective discipline. A second caregiver may sign if that person will participate.

Parent / caregiver 1 signature *

Type your full legal name. Checking the box applies your electronic signature. This page does not record handwriting, a mouse path, or a finger tracing.

Parent / caregiver 2 signature

Type your full legal name. Checking the box applies your electronic signature. This page does not record handwriting, a mouse path, or a finger tracing.

Sign by typing your legal name and checking the consent box, then submit the form.

26 required items are still blank, including “I have read this description and understand PCIT is a live-coached parenting skills program.”. You can still press Submit — the next screen will say exactly what is missing.