Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)

A structured, science-based approach that helps children process difficult or traumatic experiences and reduce anxiety, avoidance, and distress.

Now accepting clients in-person in Boston and Waltham & telehealth across Massachusetts

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Open availability for appointments · CARF accredited · most major insurances accepted

Is TF-CBT Right For Your Child?

Signs To Look For

  • Your child has experienced a traumatic, frightening, or distressing event
  • Your child avoids thinking of or remembering the traumatic event
  • Your child has difficulty talking about or processing the traumatic event
  • Your child has increased anxiety, nightmares, or irritability since the event

Quick Facts

  • Ages: 3–22
  • Format: 1:1 with caregiver
  • Length: 12–25 sessions
  • Delivery: In-person or telehealth

What Is TF-CBT?

TF-CBT is a structured therapy that helps children build coping skills before gently and safely processing a traumatic experience, with caregivers involved at every step.

What You'll Learn

Coping skills, creating a trauma narrative, and a safety plan built at your child's pace.

What It Can Help With

Trauma associated with violence, abuse, grief, sexual assault, and more.

Backed By Science

The gold-standard treatment for childhood trauma and PTSD symptoms.

What To Expect

45-50 Minutes

Typical session length

12-25 Weeks

Standard length of treatment

1:1 Caregiver Coaching

Caregivers are directly involved in the treatment process

In-person or telehealth

Multiple options to suit your needs and schedule

We Accept Insurance!

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  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

  • Harvard Pilgrim

  • Health Plans, Inc.

  • Tufts Health Public Plans

  • Tufts Commercial

  • Sliding scale private pay

Don't see your insurance listed? We are committed to making our services accessible and offer a sliding scale based on income. Reach out to speak with a member of our team today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • That's expected and okay! TF-CBT is designed to build readiness gradually, and your clinician will never rush that process.

  • No, it's used for many kinds of difficult experiences, including accidents, medical trauma, loss, and witnessing violence

  • If your child has experienced a distressing event and shows ongoing anxiety, avoidance, or changes in behavior since, our team will help assess if trauma therapy will be the best fit.

  • Yes, caregiver involvement is a core part of TF-CBT!

  • We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts Health Public Plans, and Tufts Commercial plans. If you have a different insurance plan, we can provide documentation that you may be able to submit for out-of-network reimbursement. We also offer a sliding scale to help make treatment more affordable for families paying out of pocket.

  • Reach out to our intake team, and we'll schedule your first session and walk you through what to expect.

   

PCIT

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BPT

Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) provides practical, research-based strategies for defiance, meltdowns, and ADHD-related behavior at home.

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MATCH

The Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH) is designed for treating multiple conditions rather than just one.

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Ready To Get Started?

Choose the option that feels right to you.
 

I'm Ready To Schedule

The first step is a brief call with our intake team. We’ll learn about what you’re looking for, review insurance, explain the process, and help schedule you with a therapist.

Schedule An Intro Call

I Have Questions First

Not sure where to start? Get in touch with our team and we're happy to answer any questions you may have about treatment within one business day. 

Contact Our Team