What is Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)?

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) is a leading, evidence-based treatment specifically developed to support individuals in healing from the psychological effects of trauma. It is a safe and structured approach for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)*.

TF-CBT blends the foundational techniques of traditional CBT, such as exploring thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses, with trauma-specific strategies to reduce trauma symptoms.

While TF-CBT is effective in treating PTSD it has also been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and panic attacks, particularly when these challenges are rooted in unresolved trauma.

Trauma Can Leave a Lasting Impact

When a traumatic event overwhelms the brain’s natural coping mechanisms, the memory may become 'stuck'. Unlike other life experiences that are processed and stored away, the stuck memory can remain raw and intrusive. This may lead to:

flashbacks
intense emotional reactions
physical symptoms
negative beliefs such as “I’m not safe” or “It was my fault.

TF-CBT helps you understand how trauma affects your brain and body, then teaches skills to:

Calm distressing symptoms
Shift unhelpful beliefs
Reconnect with parts of life that bring meaning and joy

What Happens in a TF-CBT Session?

Every session is tailored to your pace and readiness. A typical process might include:

Learning about trauma and the brain
Building emotional regulation skills
Identifying trauma-related beliefs
Creating a trauma narrative (if/when you’re ready)
Strengthening safety and resilience

The whole therapy is both structured and compassionate process with the aim of reducing the emotional intensity and reshaping negative beliefs formed in the aftermath of trauma.

How the Trauma Processing Stage Works in TF-CBT

In TF-CBT, everything happens at your pace, with your therapist carefully guiding the work to ensure safety and stability. A well-trained trauma therapist knows not to push you to go further than you’re ready for.

This stage of therapy involves gently exploring the sensory and emotional elements of traumatic memories, such as images, physical sensations, and feelings, while staying grounded in the present moment. The goal is not to re-experience the trauma, but to observe and understand it, allowing your brain to finally reprocess and file it away.

While this process can feel intense at times, many people describe a sense of relief, clarity, and emotional freedom as they move through it. For many, it’s a deeply empowering part of the healing journey.

Benefits of Trauma-Focused CBT

Research consistently supports TF-CBT as one of the most effective therapies for trauma-related symptoms. Benefits can include:

Reduced flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
Improved emotional regulation and resilience
Relief from anxiety and panic symptoms
Increased self-esteem and confidence
Decreased shame, guilt, or self-blame
Reduced avoidance and improved day-to-day functioning

Is TF-CBT Right for You?

TF-CBT may be a powerful step forward if you’re experiencing lasting effects of trauma, whether from a single event or prolonged exposure. If you’ve been living with anxiety, distress, emotional numbness, or self-doubt connected to your past, this structured, evidence-based therapy could help you move toward healing.

What’s Next?

We have a team of trauma therapists, many of whom are trained TF-CBT. It's important when working with a therapist that they not only have training in TF-CBT but also prior knowledge and experience of the specific trauma you've experienced. This is why we take care to match you with the right person.

If you're interested in learning more or feel ready to take the next step, please don’t hesitate to reach out here. We will find the best therapist for you and you can have a free initial chat to see if they feel like the right fit for your journey.

*Recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE)