Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a structured, evidence-based treatment model designed to help children and adolescents (typically ages 3–18) and their caregivers overcome the effects of traumatic experiences.

Developed by Judith Cohen, Anthony Mannarino, and Esther Deblinger, TF-CBT integrates cognitive-behavioral principles with trauma-sensitive and attachment-focused strategies. The model emphasizes both skill building (to manage trauma-related distress) and gradual exposure (to help clients process traumatic memories safely).