EBP Exchange – UMB School of Social Work

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is treatment used to address the biopsychosocial needs of children experiencing symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other internalizing and externalizing problems related to traumatic experiences in their life. Extensive clinical research trials have been conducted with children who have been sexually abused. Results suggest that over 80 percent of children receiving this short term therapy will have significant reduction in post traumatic stress symptomatology, depression, anxiety and other externalizing behaviors. Further, current research demonstrates this treatment is promising with children who are domestic violence survivors.  

Combining both trauma sensitive interventions and cognitive behavioral therapy, children and their parents receive knowledge and skills related to processing the trauma; managing distressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; and enhancing safety, parenting skills, and family communication. TF-CBT has been adapted to address the needs unique to Latino(a) populations, people who are hearing impaired/deaf, and for children who are experiencing traumatic grief. Although this therapy can be implemented in community based and private settings, it is contraindicated for children who have psychotic symptomatology and/or extreme conduct problems or risk behaviors. 

To find further information, citations which support this essay, and specific step by step instructions for each of the seven components of TF-CBT, printable scripts for introducing techniques to clients, and streaming video demonstrations of the therapy procedures you may visit www.tfcbt.musc.edu. Access to this website is free; however, you must register with a user name and password. The website is designed so that you can proceed at your own pace and use the learning experiences when it is convenient for you.