Understanding Your Child's Treatment
¿Qué es TF-CBT?
Este contenido aún no está disponible en español. Se muestra en inglés.
Understanding TF-CBT
TF-CBT stands for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It's a structured therapy designed specifically for children and teens who have experienced trauma.
Unlike some therapies where only the child attends, TF-CBT involves you as a partner in your child's healing. You'll learn the same skills your child is learning so you can support them at home.
The therapy helps children understand their feelings about what happened, develop healthy coping skills, and process their trauma in a safe, gradual way.
Strong Research Support
TF-CBT has been studied extensively and is one of the most effective treatments for childhood trauma and PTSD. It works for many types of trauma.
The PRACTICE Model
TF-CBT follows a structured approach called PRACTICE. Each letter stands for a component of treatment. Your child's therapist will explain each part in detail as you go.
Psychoeducation
Learning about trauma and how it affects the brain and body. Both you and your child receive this education.
Relaxation
Learning calming techniques like breathing exercises and muscle relaxation to manage stress and anxiety.
Affective Modulation
Identifying and managing big feelings. Building a vocabulary for emotions and learning healthy ways to express them.
Cognitive Coping
Understanding how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect. Learning to notice unhelpful thinking patterns.
Trauma Narrative
Gradually telling their trauma story in a safe, supported way. This happens only when your child is ready and has the coping skills they need.
In Vivo Mastery (real-life practice)
Facing trauma reminders in real life, step by step. Used when avoidance is getting in the way of everyday activities.
Conjoint Sessions
Parent and child come together to share the trauma narrative and strengthen your connection. This is a powerful healing experience for families.
Enhancing Safety
Building safety skills and planning for the future. Helping your child feel prepared and confident going forward.
How to Support Your Child
During Treatment
- • Attend your parent sessions
- • Practice skills together at home
- • Praise their effort and courage
When They Share
- • Listen calmly without interrupting
- • Validate their feelings
- • Thank them for trusting you
At Home
- • Keep consistent routines
- • Use relaxation techniques together
- • Be patient — progress isn't linear
For Caregivers
Hearing about your child's trauma can bring up difficult feelings of your own. This is normal. Talk to the therapist about getting support for yourself — taking care of you helps you take care of them.