Utilization and implementation of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy for the treatment of maltreated children

Child Maltreat. 2012 Feb;17(1):80-5. doi: 10.1177/1077559511418220. Epub 2011 Aug 29.

Abstract

Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is one of the most researched and widely disseminated interventions for maltreated children. This study describes the findings of a survey of 132 mental health clinicians in children's advocacy centers (CACs) across the United States to determine the percentage of clinicians who are trained in and utilize TF-CBT and the frequency with which TF-CBT components are implemented. A total of 103 (78%) of the clinicians reported being trained in and utilizing TF-CBT on a regular basis; however, only 66% of these clinicians (58% of the full sample) reported being likely to use each component. The most preferred components were teaching relaxation skills and providing psychoeducation, whereas teaching caregiver child behavior management skills, developing a trauma narrative, and cognitive restructuring were less preferred. Results are discussed in the context of continued dissemination efforts and implications for improving clinical practice.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Abuse / psychology
  • Child Abuse / rehabilitation*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Program Development
  • Psychology, Clinical / methods
  • Psychology, Clinical / statistics & numerical data
  • United States