What ages does the Center for CBT treat for Toileting Resistance?

Preschool-aged Children

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What is toileting resistance?

• Toileting resistance occurs when a child has difficulty or regression with toileting.

  • This can include wetting and/or soiling.

• Before age 5, struggles with toileting are considered developmentally normative, but these challenges may still warrant treatment and support. 

• Children older than 5 years who are experiencing toileting issues related to wetting or soiling may be diagnosed with Enuresis or Encopresis. 

  • Enuresis is diagnosed when a child over the age of 5 is wetting their pants at least twice a week for three consecutive months.

  • Encopresis is diagnosed in a child older than 4 years who repeatedly passes stool into inappropriate places for at least three months. 

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How do I know if my child needs treatment?

Toileting resistance can take on many forms.  Here are just some of the most common symptoms that are associated with toileting resistance: 

• Difficulty with toilet training 

• Resistance to participating in toilet training 

• Anxiety related to using the toilet

• Frequent accidents 

• Withholding behaviors (holding urine or stool purposely) 

• Toileting regression (child was toilet trained but began having accidents again) 

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What does treatment for toileting resistance look like?

Prior to beginning treatment for toileting difficulties at the Center for CBT, we ask that your child has a medical appointment with a pediatrician to rule out any medical causes for the issue.  We then utilize Behavior Therapy, which is the most effective treatment for toileting resistance. Your clinician will begin by doing a functional analysis to understand the factors driving toileting resistance in your child.  This information will help us to create a customized plan tailored to your child’s specific needs. Throughout treatment, parents will learn and practice the tools they need to best support their child’s progress.