Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Addressing the Mental Health of Sexually Abused Children

• NCJ Number: 201247
• Author(s): Judith Cohen M.D.; Esther Deblinger Ph.D.; Charles Wilson MSSW; Nicole Taylor Ph.D.; Robyn Igelman Ph.D.; Anthony P. Mannarino Ph.D.
• Date Published: May 2007
• Length: 14 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health and Human Services
• Corporate Author: Chadwick Ctr for Children and Families; Child Welfare Information Gateway
• Sale Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Instructional Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper discusses the uniqueness, key components, target population, and effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), as well as what to look for in a therapist and resources for further information.

Abstract

TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment approach proven to help children, adolescents, and their caretakers overcome trauma-related difficulties. It is designed to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse and other traumatic events. The treatment, which is based on learning and cognitive theories, addresses distorted beliefs and attributions related to the abuse and provides a supportive environment in which children are encouraged to talk about their traumatic experience. TF-CBT also helps parents who are not abusive to cope effectively with their own emotional distress and develop skills that support their children. The uniqueness of TF-CBT is its addressing of the negative effects of sexual abuse and other traumatic events by integrating several therapeutic approaches and treating both the child and parent comprehensively. TF-CBT has been used successfully in urban, suburban, and rural settings and has been effective with White, Black, and Hispanic children from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Recent research suggests that TF-CBT may be preferable to less directive treatment approaches for children who have a history of multiple traumas and those with high levels of depression prior to treatment. TF-CBT is a short-term treatment, usually involving 12-18 sessions of 60-90 minutes, depending on treatment needs. If TF-CBT is judged to be an appropriate treatment model for a family, the caseworker should select a therapist who has received adequate training, supervision, and consultation in the TF-CBT model. It is important to select a therapist who is sensitive to the particular needs of the child, caregiver, and family. 49 references, 4 onsite training contacts, and 6 practitioner guides