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

Professional version

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

Client version

Includes client-friendly guidance. 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.

Who 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 & 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 Improves 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.

References And Further Reading

Ehlers, A., Clark, D. M. (2000). A cognitive model of posttraumatic stress disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 38, 319-345.
Whalley, M. G. (2018). Psychology tools for overcoming post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). [Audio] Psychology Tools.