TF-CBT
What is TF-CBT?
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence based treatment created for youth who have experienced life events such as sexual or physical abuse, traumatic loss of a loved one, domestic, school or community violence, experiencing natural disasters, terrorism or war, and/or neglect. It is the most rigorously tested treatment for trauma in children and more effective than usual therapy for traumatized children.
Who can use TF-CBT?
It is designed for children and adolescents between the ages of 3 and 18 who have emotional and behavioral problems related to a traumatic event or a series of traumatic events. It can be used with children in many settings including foster care, group homes or parental homes.
How does TF-CBT work?
Children and their parent or caregiver will attend weekly sessions for an average of 12 – 18 sessions. The parent/caregiver will receive parenting strategies to help their child cope with trauma while the child’s sessions will focus on relieving symptoms, building coping skills, increasing personal safety, and finally, talking about their trauma. These sessions can be conducted without a caregiver if necessary.
What are the benefits of TF-CBT?
- Improves your child’s skills for dealing with stress
- Reduces your child’s anxiety about thinking or talking about their trauma
- Addresses behavioral problems associated with trauma
- Develops your child’s personal safety skills
- Enhances parent/caregiver support for your child
- Prepares your child to cope with traumatic and loss reminders