What is TF-CBT?
TF-CBT stands for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is another evidence-based therapy modality we use at Sacred Circle Counseling. TF-CBT is approved for use with children and families ages 3-18 who have experienced a traumatic incident and are experiencing the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other stressor-related disorders. This includes treatment for depression, anxiety, cognitive and behavioral problems, parenting strategies, relaxation and coping strategies, and helping the child’s caregivers with the distress surrounding the traumatic experience and possible involvement with the court system.
How long does it take?
TF-CBT was designed to be completed in approximately 30 sessions. However, the length of treatment will depend upon the frequency of sessions and whether the clinician needs to include aspects of other therapy modalities to address the client’s needs effectively.
What should I expect with TF-CBT?
The therapeutic process of TF-CBT includes three phases of therapy: The stabilization and
skill-building phase, the trauma narrative and processing phase, and the integration and consolidation phase.
Phase 1 consists of psychoeducation about trauma, the brain, and how the body and mind experience and store traumatic experiences. The therapist then builds relaxation skills, teaches about emotions and self-regulation, and expands the emotional vocabulary to help individuals talk about their experiences. The therapist then provides education on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected.
Phase 2 consists of discussing the traumatic experience. Now that the client has the skills, it is time to process the emotions and negative cognitions that have been internalized related to the traumatic event. It is common to encounter beliefs such as: “I should have been able to stop it,” “it’s my fault because I didn’t fight harder,” and “I must be bad because they did this to me.”
Phase 3 includes gradual and controlled exposure to trauma reminders to reduce fear, stress, and avoidance. It also includes sharing the processing of the traumatic experience with supportive caregivers and then building hope and resiliency for the future.
How does this help the parents/caregivers?
TF-CBT includes a caregiver component, where the therapist meets with caregivers to teach them the same skills, enabling them to support their children at home. The therapist is with the child for only one hour every week; the parents or caregivers are with them every other hour of the week, so if the child is going to have a panic attack or other trauma symptom, it will be beneficial for the caregivers to learn the skills to help support them. The therapist will meet with the caregivers both with and without the child present. The therapist will also help the caregiver process their experience with their child having this traumatic experience. Trauma doesn’t happen to only one person; it can affect the whole family. The therapist will also provide parenting strategies and help caregivers learn how to discuss safety and sex education with their children.