Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. While TF-CBT was originally developed to address the needs of children who experienced sexual abuse, over the past 15 years it has been used and studied for many other populations of traumatized youth. Research now documents that TF-CBT is effective for diverse, multiple and complex trauma experiences, for youth of different developmental levels, and across different cultures.
Last reviewed: 2023
Intended Outcomes:
TF-CBT is a structured, short-term treatment model that effectively improves a range of trauma-related outcomes in 8-25 sessions with the child/adolescent and caregiver. Although TF-CBT is highly effective at improving youth posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and diagnosis, a PTSD diagnosis is not required in order to receive this treatment. TF-CBT also effectively addresses many other trauma impacts, including affective (e.g., depressive, anxiety), cognitive and behavioral problems, as well as improving the participating parent’s or caregiver’s personal distress about the child’s traumatic experience, effective parenting skills, and supportive interactions with the child.
Continuum of Care:
Treatment
Topic Areas:
Anxiety, Behavioral Health/Mental Health, Depression, Trauma
Ages:
Adult (25+), Childhood (4-12), Early Childhood (0-3), Teen/Adolescent (13-18), Young Adult (19-24)
Geographic Locations:
Rural, Urban
Delivery Settings:
Community-Based, Congregate Care Facility, Virtual
Cultural Considerations:
Significant and well-articulated attention was given to disparities in outcomes
Audience:
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers.
Credentials:
Master’s degree or above, certification required
Manuals:
Yes
Is Training Required?
Yes, see developer info
Who can provide the required training?
Approved national trainer, a treatment developer, or an approved national, regional, or state TF-CBT Learning Collaborative of at least six months.
Program Costs (materials, training, etc.):
Yes, refer to program website
Program/Practice Website:
https://tfcbt.org
Relevant Published, Peer-Reviewed Research:
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Additional Sources:
https://www.tfcbt.org/about-tfcbt/