Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is treatment intervention developed to help children and their caregivers overcome the negative effects of traumatic life events. This evidence-based practice was created for young people who have developed significant emotional or behavior difficulties following exposure to a traumatic event. Examples of such traumatic events include loss of a loved one, physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic or community violence, motor vehicle accidents, fires, and terrorist attacks.

Referrals
Families may self-refer. Referrals are also received from social service agencies including, but not limited to, the Erie County Office of Children and Youth, Juvenile Probation, and Erie County Care Management.

Ages
This program serves children and adolescents ages 4 to 18.

Fee/Funding
Because the TF-CBT Program is currently funded by a grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), there is no charge for this service.

Assessment
Each child and their parent or caregiver participates in a clinical assessment to determine if this service is appropriate for them. The assessment is then used in treatment planning and to measure treatment effectiveness.

Treatment Structure
TF-CBT is an office-based, short-term treatment that involves individual sessions with the child and the caregiver(s) as well as joint sessions.

Services take place once a week in 60 to 90-minute sessions for approximately 12 to 16 weeks, Treatment may continue longer depending on individual need.

Staff Qualifications and Training
TF-CBT therapists are master level clinicians who have specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of trauma. There is ongoing consultation with a TF-CBT developer/trainer as well as consultation with a licensed psychologist.

Effectiveness
TF-CBT has proven to be effective in treating the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, including depression, anxiety, externalizing behaviors, sexualized behaviors and feelings of shame and mistrust.

The adult component of PTSD increases the positive effect of services for children by alleviating the emotional distress experienced by many parents and caregivers about their child's experience and offering support and education in regard to parenting practices.