When a child or adolescent experiences trauma, its effects can ripple through emotions, behavior, relationships, and daily functioning. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment designed to help children and teens process traumatic experiences in a safe, structured, and supportive way.
At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, TF-CBT is provided with a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that supports both youth and their caregivers throughout the healing process.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a short-term, structured therapy model developed specifically for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. It integrates cognitive behavioral techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions to help young clients understand, process, and reduce the emotional impact of traumatic events.
TF-CBT actively involves caregivers whenever appropriate, recognizing the vital role supportive adults play in a child’s recovery.
TF-CBT helps young clients build coping skills while gradually processing trauma in a way that feels manageable and empowering. Therapy focuses on reducing distressing thoughts, emotional reactions, and behavioral responses linked to trauma.
By strengthening emotional awareness, problem-solving skills, and healthy thinking patterns, TF-CBT supports long-term resilience and recovery.
TF-CBT is commonly used to support children and teens who have experienced:
This approach is effective for children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, behavioral changes, or trauma-related symptoms following distressing experiences.
TF-CBT sessions may include:
Each treatment plan is individualized and guided by evidence-based best practices.
TF-CBT helps young clients build coping skills while gradually processing trauma in a way that feels manageable and empowering. Therapy focuses on reducing distressing thoughts, emotional reactions, and behavioral responses linked to trauma.
By strengthening emotional awareness, problem-solving skills, and healthy thinking patterns, TF-CBT supports long-term resilience and recovery.
Caregiver involvement is a core component of TF-CBT. Parents or guardians receive education and support to better understand trauma responses and learn effective ways to support their child’s healing.
This collaborative approach helps strengthen family communication, improve emotional safety, and reinforce progress outside of therapy sessions.
At Daybreak Counseling in Des Moines, TF-CBT is delivered in a developmentally appropriate, compassionate manner. Therapists tailor sessions to each child’s age, needs, and trauma history, ensuring that therapy moves at a pace that feels safe and respectful.
We emphasize trust, choice, and emotional safety while helping children and teens regain a sense of control and confidence.
If your child or teen is struggling after a traumatic experience, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy offers a structured, proven path toward healing and emotional stability.
Contact Daybreak Counseling today to learn more about TF-CBT in Des Moines and how we support children, adolescents, and families through trauma recovery.
