Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) services are provided on behalf of children between the ages of 3 and 18, who experienced single or complex trauma. TF-CBT clinicians may work in the home with the child, caregiver and/or other supportive members of the child. The therapist will provide psychoeducation about trauma to the child and identified family members, along with skill building strategies.

The TF-CBT model is a sequenced, relationship-based approach to services. The aim of TF-CBT is to decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression or other identified behavior problems that stem from a traumatic event. Interventions focus primarily on psychoeducation, relaxation techniques, affect regulation and cognitive coping strategies. Once the child develops additional positive coping skills, the therapist will use desensitization strategies to assist the child in processing the trauma while managing distressing thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Simultaneously, the therapist will continue to enhance future safety, parenting skills and family communication (National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 2008).

For more information on (TF-CBT), please visit http://tfcbt.musc.edu