What is Trauma-Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)?

TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help children, adolescents, and their parents (or other caregivers) overcome trauma-related difficulties. It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following trauma, including child sexual abuse and other maltreatment, domestic violence, traumatic loss, mass disasters, multiple traumas, and other traumatic events.

How longs does TF-CBT treatment last?

TF-CBT is a short-term treatment typically provided in 12-16 weekly sessions, although the number of sessions can be increased to 25 for youth who preset with complex trauma (Cohen, Mannarino, & Deblinger, 2017). Most sessions last approximately 60 minutes, with the child and parent separately seeing the therapist along with some conjoint sessions. TF-CBT is usually completed within 4-6 months.

Who is appropriate for TF-CBT?

Youth between ages 3-18 (CBHS begins treatment at age 7) that has experienced at least one identifiable trauma that the child remembers. The youth exhibits symptoms as a result of trauma, expected to be in a stable placement through the course of treatment, basic needs are met, no severe conflict at home, and ideally has a supportive caregiver or parent (non-abusive) willing to participate in treatment. Finally, the youth does not present with any of the following: active suicidal plan or intent, uncontrolled bipolar disorder or manic symptoms, uncontrolled psychosis, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder, or uncontrolled obsessive-compulsive disorder. The appropriateness of youth with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorders will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Is Mental Health covered by my insurance plan?

Many insurance plans provide some levels of coverage for mental health services. We suggest you contact your insurance member services representative to find out exactly what benefits are covered by your plan, if you need a referral from your primary care physician or if preauthorization is required before your visit. If you do not have insurance coverage, please speak with our staff about our private fee schedule.

What about my Confidentiality?

Our therapist abides by a Professional Code of Ethics protecting your confidentiality and welfare. The relationship between therapist and client is protected by law and information cannot be disclosed without written consent. The only exceptions are if and when there is suspected child abuse or neglect, elderly abuse or neglect, or when the client threatens serious harm to self or others. Every effort is made to ensure the safety of those affected as required by state and federal law.