The goal of behavior therapy is to enforce a child's positive behaviors and habits, and try to eliminate negative ones.

For children younger than 6 years old, behavior therapy might include a therapist working with the child to learn new behaviors to replace the ones that cause problems. Part of behavior therapy might include "parent training" in behavior management. This can give parents the appropriate skills and strategies to help their child manage their behaviors.

For children aged 6 and older, several types of behavior theories might be utilized, including parent training strategies, behavioral interventions in the classroom, and organizational skill training.