Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) - Christchurch
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach for children and teens. It helps young people process difficult experiences, reduce trauma-related distress, and build healthy coping skills in a developmentally appropriate way. TF-CBT combines practical strategies like relaxation and emotional regulation with gentle exposure to the trauma story, all within a safe and supportive environment. This approach has been shown to be highly effective for a wide range of trauma.
How does TF-CBT help with trauma?
Trauma can affect how children think, feel, and act, sometimes leaving them anxious, withdrawn, angry, or confused. TF-CBT helps by giving children tools to understand their feelings, manage overwhelming reactions, and talk about what happened in a safe, gradual way. It also supports them to identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts, which can reduce fear, guilt, or shame related to the trauma. For caregivers, TF-CBT offers guidance on how to respond supportively, communicate more effectively, and rebuild trust. Together, these strategies help children feel safer, more in control, and more connected to the people around them.
What to expect in sessions
TF-CBT typically takes place over 12 to 20 sessions, depending on the child’s age, needs, and pace. The approach is structured and includes both individual sessions for the child and separate sessions for their caregiver, with some joint sessions later on.
Early sessions focus on building trust and learning coping skills. Children are taught strategies such as relaxation techniques, naming emotions, and calming their bodies when overwhelmed. Caregivers learn how trauma affects children and how to support their recovery at home.
In the middle phase, the child begins creating a trauma narrative. This is a gradual process of sharing their story through drawing, writing, or talking, depending on their age and comfort. Caregivers are supported to listen and respond in ways that strengthen connection.
Later sessions focus on challenging unhelpful thoughts, building confidence, and practicing new skills in real-life situations. The process is gentle and supportive, with regular check-ins to ensure the child feels safe and understood.
Is TF-CBT Right for my child or teen?
TF-CBT is well-suited for children and teens who are dealing with trauma-related symptoms like nightmares, anxiety, avoidance, or strong emotional reactions. It’s effective for both single events and ongoing stressors, such as abuse, loss, or exposure to violence. This approach works best when the young person is ready to talk about what happened at their own pace and when a caregiver can take part in the process. If your child isn’t quite ready, or if there are ongoing safety concerns, another therapy may be a more appropriate starting point.
Choosing the Right Trauma Therapy for Your Child & Teen
Every child processes trauma differently, and the best therapy depends on their age, personality, and the nature of what they’ve experienced. TF-CBT offers a clear, structured path with strong evidence behind it, but it’s not the only option.
Trauma-Focused therapy options
In addition to TF-CBT, there are other well-supported options depending on your child’s stage of development and readiness. For younger children, supportive therapies such as cognitive-behavioural or play-based approaches can help build emotional skills, strengthen coping, and provide a sense of safety, particularly if they're not ready to focus directly on the trauma.
When your child or adolescent is ready to process traumatic memories more directly, trauma-focused therapies like Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) may help them organise and make sense of their experiences. For adolescents, more structured approaches such as Written Exposure Therapy (WET) or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) may also be suitable. We’re here to guide you through your options in more detail.
Book a TF-CBT Appointment in Christchurch
Starting therapy can feel like a big decision, especially when it involves your child. We’re here to make that process feel manageable. Whether you’re seeking clarity, support, or simply someone to guide you through the next steps, we’re happy to talk. Reach out to learn more about how TF-CBT could support your family.
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