Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Child Trauma and Abuse: An Step-by-Step Approach

The effects of trauma and abuse on children can be long-lasting, acute and damaging. Evidence suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of psychotherapy to help children to overcome these effects.

This book uses an evidence-based CBT treatment model to assist children and adolescents aged 9-15 years to resolve trauma symptoms and increase their coping skills. The approach is made up of 16 step-by-step sessions to carry out with the young person, and includes worksheets and fun activities using arts and crafts. The model uses four phases: strengthening the child's psychosocial context; enhancing their coping skills; processing their trauma through gradual exposure; and addressing special issues that the child may have and preventing relapse. The child keeps a scrapbook for the duration of the programme in which they keep worksheets, artwork and any other activities they carry out. The approach is designed for individual therapy but also includes sessions for parents and caregivers.

With photocopiable worksheets and easy to follow sessions, this will be an invaluable resource for all practitioners working with traumatised and abused children, including therapists, psychologists, counsellors, health professionals and social workers.

Jacqueline S. Feather is Senior Lecturer in Psychology at AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand. She is a clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ clinical experience working with children, adolescents and their families, and has particular expertise in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy interventions. Kevin R. Ronan is Professor of Psychology at CQ University, Australia. He is a clinical psychologist with nearly 25 years of clinical experience, in particular with children, adolescents and their families.