Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a treatment model that helps reduce the symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in children and families. TF-CBT is an awesome option for children 4 and older, and can be adapted to a child's age and level so that it's appropriate for even teens and adolescents. Parents are involved throughout the whole process, especially for younger children, but children still have individual time with a therapist where they can enjoy a safe and confidential space to share about their trauma without worrying how their feelings might impact their parents. Children and teens learn coping skills to help them manage trauma symptoms like flashbacks, irritability and nightmares. They learn about managing feelings and negative thoughts, and these become skills they can access as they grow older and into adulthood, thus TF-CBT supports short-term recovery and long-term mental wellness. Children and teens tell the stories of their trauma through whatever means they feel most comfortable expressing themselves, and the therapist helps the child understand and process their experiences. The child and parent work together to put the traumatic event into context and think through what it means in their lives, how it has made them stronger as people, and how they want to be as a family going forward. TF-CBT helps children and families realize they are safe now and helps them feel safer in their future.
