About PCIT International
Learn more about the people behind the scenes.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors at PCIT International comprises experienced professionals committed to the organization’s mission:
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Larissa Niec, PhD
PRESIDENT
Dr. Niec is a licensed psychologist based in Wisconsin and a leading expert in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. She provides strategic direction for the organization and guides the board's efforts to expand PCIT access and maintain high standards of practice.
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Naomi Perry, MSW
VICE PRESIDENT
Ms. Perry is a licensed clinical social worker in Washington State with decades of experience delivering, implementing, and training others in PCIT. She brings deep clinical and systems-level expertise to the board's leadership and policy development efforts.
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Ciera Schoonover, PhD
TREASURER
Dr. Schoonover is a clinical psychologist from Tennessee who specializes in PCIT and evidence-based treatments for children and families. She oversees the organization's financial stewardship, supporting transparency and sustainability.
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Karin Vanderzee, PhD
SECRETARY
Dr. Vanderzee is a licensed psychologist in Minnesota who has trained and mentored dozens of PCIT providers. She supports board operations and ensures clear communication and accurate record-keeping.
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Wolfgang Briegel, MD
MEMBER AT-LARGE
Dr. Briegel is a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Schweinfurt, Germany. He contributes valuable global insight to the board's outreach and supports efforts to adapt PCIT across international settings.
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Melanie Nelson, PhD
INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dr. Nelson is a clinical child psychologist based in Florida and currently serves as Executive Director. She manages day-to-day operations and works to grow the reach and impact of PCIT through clinical, training, and organizational initiatives.
Task Forces
PCIT International operates several dedicated Task Forces, each focusing on key areas essential to the advancement and integrity of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Here's a brief overview of each:
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This team manages PCIT International's outreach and communications, ensuring consistent messaging across platforms and enhancing engagement with both professionals and families. You can reach them at communications@pcit.org.
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Responsible for developing and overseeing continuing education opportunities, this group ensures that PCIT practitioners have access to up-to-date training and resources to maintain high standards of practice.
Contact: ce@pcit.org
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Focused on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within PCIT, this task force works to adapt practices to be culturally responsive and accessible to historically marginalized communities.
Contact: equity@pcit.org
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This group advises on the global dissemination of PCIT, supporting international trainers and therapists, and facilitating the translation and adaptation of materials for diverse cultural contexts.
Contact: international@pcit.org
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Engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, this team advocates for policies that support the implementation and funding of PCIT, aiming to expand access to effective interventions for children and families.
Contact: policyadvocacy@pcit.org
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This task force oversees the development and standardization of training protocols, ensuring that PCIT training programs are effective, consistent, and aligned with best practices.
Contact: training@pcit.org
Each Task Force plays a vital role in supporting PCIT International’s mission to enhance the well-being of children and families through evidence-based practices.