Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) is a validated, evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to support children, adolescents, and their families in overcoming the adverse effects of traumatic experiences.
TF-CBT has shown proven effectiveness in addressing the aftermath of both single event trauma and repeated/multiple traumas. It can effectively assist children struggling with the emotional repercussions of trauma, helping them confront and resolve these challenges.
TF-CBT integrates developmentally appropriate interventions customised for children and adolescents facing emotional and psychological challenges due to trauma. It blends humanistic, cognitive-behavioural, and familial strategies. Typically, this short-term treatment lasts no more than 16 sessions, with a significant majority of children experiencing improvement within this timeframe.
TF-CBT enables both parents and children to process emotions and thoughts related to trauma, helping to equip them with tools to manage overwhelming thoughts causing stress, anxiety, and depression. TF-CBT provides a safe, secure environment for children to disclose details of trauma, and apply cognitive and learning theories to help reshape distorted perceptions.
TF-CBT is a skills-based model which requires practice of its components by both the child and parent, often involving at-home skill rehearsals. The goal is to strengthen ongoing development of skills and healthy communication techniques.
Core components of TF-CBT include:
Psychoeducation and parenting skills
Relaxation
Affect regulation
Cognitive processing of trauma
Trauma narrative
In vivo mastery of trauma reminders
Conjoint child-parent sessions
Enhancing future safety and development
One of the keys to effective TF-CBT implementation is the development of a trusting therapeutic relationship between therapist, child, and parent. Individual and conjoint child/parent sessions, incorporating family therapy principles, help to address the psychological ramifications of trauma, with a key focus also on providing parents with resources and skills to help their child.
TF-CBT primarily targets posttraumatic stress, aiming to help people address and resolve distress resulting from single or multiple traumatic events. It is effective for children and adolescents experiencing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety due to abuse, domestic violence, neglect, or coping with the death of a loved one.
TF-CBT may not be suitable for children with pre-existing behavioural concerns. Adolescents with substance abuse or who are at risk of self-harm/suicide may require further modifications to the pace or order of interventions, including the addition of other therapeutic interventions. More time may be spent using stabilising therapy approaches prior to TF-CBT in certain cases.
