TF-CBT THERAPY
Therapy for Children and Adolescents
There are many different coping skills children and adolescents adapt to cope with trauma. Symptoms and signs can range greatly from changes in eating habits to impacted levels of self-worth. Trauma can impact a child’s ability to feel safe or cause them to be unable to enjoy relationships. The signs can also show up with a wide range of general depression and anxiety symptoms, ranging from moderate to severe.
WHAT IS TF-CBT?
TF-CBT is a type of psychotherapy teaching coping skills as a treatment for unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors that develop in a child or adolescent after there is trauma. TF-CBT was originally developed for children and adolescents who experienced sexual trauma, but over the years it has been proven effective at also treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance and/or alcohol use, severe mental illness, and more! TF-CBT is a proven approach that provides coping skills for kids to heal from trauma, as well as works to build improved communication between caregiver and child. It is not uncommon for the caregiver to feel distress over the child’s experience(s) and TF-CBT helps with that as well!
HOW DOES TF-CBT WORK?
TF-CBT is considered a short-term therapy lasting 8-25 sessions. TF-CBT works by partnering the caregiver with a therapist to teach coping skills that get applied in everyday use. The therapist and you will create goals specific to your child/adolescent. Through education and practice the therapist child and caregiver will address unhelpful thought patterns and eliminate unwanted behaviors. This works to improve quality of life as well as the relationship between caregiver and child.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
You may wonder what TF-CBT therapy at Mariposa looks like. First, we at Mariposa Counseling are committed to providing a safe healing environment. We have worked hard to ensure that when you walk into our Grand Rapids office you are met with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We have been intentional to keep you feeling comfortable courtesy refreshment bar, soft lighting, and inviting offices. After your initial intake appointment, you and your therapist will create concrete goals to accomplish together in an 8-25 session range. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all the information and resources out there.
HOW DO I GET MY CHILD/ADOLESCENT STARTED?
You may not know where to begin, so we at Mariposa are here to make the process as simple as possible. You start by reaching out to our Administrative Assistant Emily Chivis by call or text at (616) 284-1329. You may also reach her by e-mail at echivis@mariposacounselingllc.com. She will get basic information about your child and them scheduled. We want to make everything as easy as possible for you so we offer fully virtual appointments! Those with attention disorders or difficulties and/or young children are best helped in person. Our offices are located at the Cooper’s Landing Building in Grand Rapids, MI. Located on Monroe Ave near Riverside Park, The Veteran’s Home, and US131, we are proudly centrally located for your convenience!