Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT helps teens work through trauma, with parents or caregivers as part of the process.
What is TF-CBT?
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most researched treatments for young people who have been through traumatic experiences. It was designed for children and teens along with a supportive parent or caregiver. In my practice, I use TF-CBT with teens.
It combines practical coping skills with gentle, gradual work on the trauma itself, so young people can make sense of what happened and feel safe again.
How it works
TF-CBT moves through a series of steps, building skills first and then, when your teen is ready, working through the memory itself:
- Learning about trauma and common reactions to it
- Calming and relaxation skills for the body
- Naming and managing feelings
- Noticing and shifting unhelpful thoughts
- Gradually telling the story of what happened, at a pace that feels safe
- Joint sessions where teens and caregivers talk together
- Building a plan for safety and confidence going forward
TF-CBT is structured and time-limited, and we adjust the pace to each young person and family.
What it can help with
- Distress after a frightening event, accident, or loss
- Exposure to violence at home or in the community
- Nightmares, fear, and avoidance
- Anger, acting out, or shutting down after trauma
- Traumatic grief
- Caregivers who want to support their child’s healing
What it looks like with me
As a marriage and family therapist, I value bringing caregivers into the healing. Parents and caregivers learn the same skills their teen is learning, so the support continues at home between sessions.
Is this right for you?
You don’t have to know which approach you need. Reach out, and we’ll talk about what you’re going through and what might help most.