What Is TF-CBT?

An introduction to trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) - an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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Language

Client version

Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.

Professional version

Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.

Editable version (PPT)

An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.

Overview

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This information handout describes the key principles of TF-CBT and common techniques used in a TF-CBT approach.

Why use this resource?

This resource is designed to help clients:

Become more familiar with trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).
Understand the theoretical ideas that TF-CBT is based on.
Appreciate the potential benefits of TF-CBT.

Key benefits

Clear

Provides a clear introduction to trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).

Informative

Offers insights into key ideas in TF-CBT.

Flexible

Suitable for clients experiencing a range of psychological issues.

What difficulties is this for?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Designed to help clients affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Integrating it into your practice

Educate

Use the handout as a psychoeducation tool to explain the TF-CBT approach to clients.

Reflect

Encourage clients to reflect on their experiences and the relevance of trauma-focused therapy.

Explore

Explore whether TF-CBT might be helpful.

Theoretical background and therapist guidance

What Is TF-CBT? is an information sheet describing the key principles of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). It outlines the differences between trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and describes some of the key components of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for PTSD. It is a helpful handout to give to clients who may want information before choosing between evidence-based therapies such as trauma-focused CBT and EMDR. See also the What is EMDR? information sheet.

What's inside

Introduction to trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).
Suggestions for using the resource with clients.
Key references for learning more about TF-CBT.

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FAQs

TF-CBT is a therapy designed to assist individuals who have experienced trauma and who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

TF-CBT incorporates work around grounding and stabilisation, distressing memories, negative beliefs, and more.

Start by using this handout to discuss the core principles and potential benefits of TF-CBT.

How this resource helps improve clinical outcomes

By integrating this TF-CBT resource into their practice, therapists can help clients:

Better understand the key ideas in TF-CBT.
Judge whether TF-CBT might be the right therapeutic approach for them.
Prepare for TF-CBT.

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References and further reading