Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT Trauma Informed Therapy

how does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Trauma Informed CBT help people with trauma

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Informed CBT are powerful tools for helping people heal from trauma by reshaping how they think, feel, and respond to distressing experiences. Here’s how they work:

🧠 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Trauma

CBT helps people understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. When it comes to trauma, CBT focuses on:

• Identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts People often develop distorted beliefs after trauma (e.g., “I’m not safe,” “It was my fault”). CBT helps reframe these into more balanced, realistic thoughts.
• Reducing avoidance behaviors Trauma survivors may avoid reminders of the event. CBT uses gradual exposure to help reduce fear and avoidance in a safe, controlled way.
• Improving emotion regulation Techniques like cognitive restructuring and relaxation exercises help manage overwhelming emotions like guilt, anger, or fear.
• Building coping skills Clients learn practical strategies like deep breathing, mindfulness, and problem-solving to handle stress and triggers.

🌱 Trauma-Informed CBT (Including TF-CBT)

Trauma-Informed CBT goes a step further by integrating sensitivity to the trauma experience. It’s especially effective for children, adolescents, and families, but also used with adults. Key features include:

• Safety and trust-building Therapy is structured to avoid re-traumatization and create a secure environment.
• Psychoeducation Clients learn how trauma affects the brain and body, which helps normalize their reactions and reduce shame.
• Gradual exposure and trauma narrative Clients are gently guided to revisit and process traumatic memories, often by creating a trauma story to help reframe the experience.
• Caregiver involvement (for youth) Non-offending parents or caregivers are included to support healing and reinforce coping strategies.
• Empowerment and choice Clients are encouraged to take an active role in their healing, restoring a sense of control.

Both approaches aim to help people regain a sense of safety, rebuild self-worth, and develop healthier ways of thinking and relating to the world.

If you’re curious which approach might be a better fit for you or someone you care about, I’d be happy to help explore that.