Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a specialized, evidence-based treatment model designed to help children, adolescents, and their families recover from the destructive effects of trauma.

How TF-CBT Works

TF-CBT integrates cognitive and behavioral interventions with trauma-sensitive principles. The therapy is structured and typically short-term, moving through specific phases (outlined by the acronym PRACTICE): Psychoeducation, Relaxation, Affective regulation, Cognitive processing, Trauma narrative development, In vivo exposure, Conjoint parent-child sessions, and Enhancing future safety. Parents or caregivers are deeply involved in the treatment process, making it highly effective at strengthening family support.

Who Can Benefit?

Endorsed heavily by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, TF-CBT is considered the premier intervention for young trauma survivors. It is designed for:

• Children and teens (ages 3 to 18) who have experienced a significant trauma
• Survivors of childhood abuse, grief, or community violence
• Youth suffering from PTSD symptoms or severe anxiety
• Parents needing guidance to support their traumatized child