TRAUMA THERAPY FOR CHILDREN

Trust - Based Relational Intervention (TBRI):
Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr.
Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross designed to support children who have experienced
trauma, neglect, or attachment disruptions. TBRI focuses on building trust and
establishing a secure relationship between caregivers and children through three
primary principles: Connecting (establishing trust and bonding), Empowering (meeting
the child's physical and emotional needs), and Correcting (addressing behavioral issues
in a supportive manner). The goal of TBRI is to promote healing and improve emotional
regulation, helping children develop healthier relationships and behaviors.

Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT):
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is a therapeutic approach that uses play as a
medium to help children express their feelings, work through emotional issues, and
develop coping skills. Rooted in the principles of Carl Rogers' person-centered therapy,

CCPT allows children to lead the therapeutic process through self-directed play in a
safe and supportive environment. The therapist provides a range of play materials and
uses reflective listening and empathy to support the child's exploration and expression.
The goal of CCPT is to foster emotional healing, enhance self-esteem, and strengthen
the child’s ability to handle challenges, all while respecting their natural way of
communicating through play.

Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP):
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) is a therapeutic approach designed to support the
mental health and well-being of young children and their caregivers, particularly in the
context of trauma or attachment disruptions. Developed by Alicia Lieberman and
Patricia Van Horn, CPP focuses on improving the parent-child relationship by
addressing the impact of trauma on both the child and the caregiver. The therapy
involves working with both the child and the parent or caregiver to enhance emotional
communication, strengthen attachment, and promote healthy interactions. The goal of
CPP is to foster a supportive and nurturing environment that aids the child’s emotional
and psychological recovery.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT):
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a structured, evidence-
based treatment designed to help children and adolescents who have experienced
trauma. Developed by Judith Cohen, Anthony Mannarino, and Esther Deblinger, TF-
CBT integrates cognitive-behavioral principles with trauma-sensitive approaches. The
therapy focuses on reducing trauma-related symptoms by addressing negative thoughts
and feelings, helping individuals process and make sense of their traumatic
experiences, and teaching coping skills. TF-CBT involves both individual therapy for the
child and sessions with caregivers to enhance support and improve family dynamics.
The goal is to alleviate distress, improve functioning, and promote resilience in those
affected by trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy
technique designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR involves the client recalling distressing
memories while engaging in guided bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye
movements. This process helps the brain reprocess and integrate these memories,
reducing their emotional charge and alleviating symptoms of trauma and PTSD. EMDR
aims to help individuals gain new perspectives on traumatic events, leading to
decreased emotional distress and improved mental health.