Our Work

TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

HELPING CHILDREN RECOVER FROM TRAUMA

CHDI has helped Connecticut develop an impressive network of mental health providers trained to treat children suffering from exposure to violence, abuse, and other forms of trauma.

With the support of State and federal funding, we have trained over 1,000 clinicians and staff across more than 70 community mental health providers to deliver the evidence-based Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) model. As a result, more than 12,000 children have received TF-CBT and those completing treatment demonstrate excellent clinical outcomes.

The TF-CBT model produces excellent results.

TF-CBT is a family-centered, short-term treatment that helps children recover from upsetting thoughts, feelings, and behavior associated with trauma exposure. It is one of the most widely researched treatments for children who are victims of trauma, including violence, sexual abuse and physical abuse. Research shows that children who participate in TF-CBT demonstrate significant improvements in feelings and behavior, and TF-CBT also has been shown to reduce future health care and other costs. 

The TF-CBT Coordinating Center

The TF-CBT Coordinating Center was created in 2007 with funding from Connecticut’s Department of Children and Families (DCF) and is now jointly supported by DCF and the Connecticut Judicial Branch Court Support Services Division. In 2010, the TF-CBT Coordinating Center received a SAMHSA Science and Service award in recognition of its successful dissemination of TF-CBT. In 2013, the State of Connecticut expanded the role of the TF-CBT Coordinating Center to include a rigorous quality improvement initiative based on CHDI’s Performance Improvement Center (PIC) model and the field of implementation science. The Coordinating Center uses a data-driven and collaborative approach to improve access, quality, and child and family outcomes for those receiving TF-CBT services across Connecticut. 

The TF-CBT Coordinating Center provides:

  • TF-CBT clinical and implementation support and training for agencies and private practice/school-based clinicians
  • Data collection, analysis and reporting
  • Quality improvement consultation
  • Maintenance of a statewide public roster of credentialed TF-CBT providers – available on the state website and via www.kidsmentalhealthinfo.com
  • Sustainability funding for TF-CBT providers who deliver high-quality care
  • Coordination between child welfare, juvenile justice and TF-CBT providers to support children and families being served by multiple systems

Find providers in Connecticut offering TF-CBT treatment.

View outcomes and data in the latest TF-CBT Annual Report.

For new agencies, group practices, or clinicians interested in implementing TF-CBT in Connecticut, please click here to download a welcome packet.


Arielle Wagoner - Senior Project Coordinator
awagoner@chdi.org