Mental Health Therapy

All children and teens who are seen at the center are eligible for free therapy services. We offer a Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program. Child and Adolescent Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a specialized therapeutic approach designed to help children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. It is an evidence-based treatment that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-focused interventions to address the emotional and psychological impact of traumatic experiences.

TF-CBT aims to reduce symptoms of trauma, such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and behavioral difficulties, while promoting healing, resilience, and healthy coping strategies. It recognizes the unique needs of children and adolescents and tailors the therapy accordingly, taking into account their developmental level, age, and individual circumstances.

The core components of TF-CBT include:

1. Psychoeducation: The therapist provides age-appropriate information about trauma, its effects, and common reactions, helping the child or adolescent understand their experiences and normalize their feelings.

2. Relaxation and Coping Skills: Children learn relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, to manage anxiety and distressing emotions. They also acquire coping skills to deal with triggers and stressors.

3. Cognitive Restructuring: This component focuses on challenging and modifying negative thoughts and beliefs related to the trauma. Children learn to identify and replace distorted thinking patterns with more accurate and adaptive thoughts.

4. Trauma Narrative: In a safe and supportive environment, the child or adolescent is guided to share their traumatic experience through verbal or creative means, such as drawing or writing. This process helps them process and make sense of their trauma.

5. Emotional Regulation: Children are taught skills to recognize and regulate their emotions effectively. They learn to identify and express their feelings in healthy ways instead of resorting to maladaptive behaviors.

6. Parent/Caregiver Involvement: TF-CBT recognizes the importance of involving parents or caregivers in the therapeutic process. They receive education, support, and guidance to understand their child's trauma reactions, improve communication, and provide a nurturing and safe environment.

TF-CBT is typically conducted over a structured number of sessions, ranging from 12 to 25, depending on the child's needs and progress. The therapist works collaboratively with the child, caregiver, and sometimes other family members to promote healing, strengthen coping skills, and restore the child's sense of safety and well-being.