Cheryl McNeil
Professor University of Florida
- Gainesville FL
Cheryl McNeil is an expert in Parent–Child Interaction Therapy who has written eight books and disseminated the treatment worldwide.
Biography
Cheryl McNeil is a clinical psychologist studying how everyday parent–child interactions shape behavior and mental health. Her work turns decades of science from Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) into practical, real-world tools that help families thrive. She has trained over a thousand therapists and researchers all over the world. At the university, she leads innovative research, mentors future clinicians and partners with communities to bring effective parenting support into homes, making evidence-based care more accessible, engaging and impactful.
Areas of Expertise
Behavior problems of young children
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Early Intervention
Parenting
Media Appearances
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
American Psychological Association online
2007-11-01
In Parent–Child Interaction Therapy, Dr. Cheryl Bodiford McNeil demonstrates this approach to helping young children who present with conduct problem behavior. This empirically supported intervention focuses on improving the relationship between parent and child by teaching parents specific skills to develop a nurturing, secure bond with their child. Parents also learn specific strategies for improving child compliance through consistent limit setting.


