Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention

Q: What is Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)?

CFTSI is a brief evidenced-based early intervention for children seven to 18 years old who have experienced a potentially traumatic event (PTE) or after disclosure of physical or sexual abuse. CFTSI aims to reduce traumatic stress reactions as well as the onset of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

After a PTE, it can be difficult for children and parents to talk about what happened and how they have been affected. However, it is critical in the aftermath of a PTE that a child receive the support and help he or she needs. CFTSI focuses on increasing family support by enhancing communication about the child’s symptoms and learning strategies for managing the child’s reactions. When the parent (and therapist) better understand the struggles a child is having, the better the parent (and therapist) can help.

CFTSI is intended to be provided within 30-45 days after the PTE or following the disclosure of physical or sexual abuse.