Ask the Institute: What is CFTSI?

Often when we talk about treatment modalities that are effective for child victims of abuse, we think primarily in terms of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or TF-CBT. And while TF-CBT is a research-backed and highly effective modality, it is a longer course of treatment – and sometimes, clients need a more immediate intervention. In such cases, the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention, or CFTSI, can be a great option.

CFTSI is a brief, 5-8 session evidence-based, trauma-focused mental health treatment developed specifically for implementation in the early phase of trauma response, soon after a recent traumatic event (ideally, within the first 30-45 days), or after a recent disclosure of abuse made in a forensic interview (such as in a Child Advocacy Center), regardless of whether the child has a history of previous traumatic experiences. CFTSI has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing children’s trauma symptoms in the aftermath of traumatic experiences and reducing or interrupting PTSD and related disorders in children.[1]

Studies of this modality consistently show a significant reduction in Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, or PTSS, in those who complete the treatment. Additionally, the results show a significant decrease in PTSS for their parents/caregivers – which is important, because we know that parental/caregiver support is one of the strongest predictors of recovery for children who have been exposed to trauma.

CFTSI can also be delivered via telehealth. A post-COVID study of CFTSI delivered via telehealth showed significant improvements in youth and caregiver posttraumatic stress symptoms.[2] And the study showed that decreases in stress symptoms were consistent with or stronger than those documented in prior studies of CFTSI that were delivered in-person.

If you are interested in becoming trained in CFTSI, the NCA Institute for Better Mental Health Outcomes is offering training via MHub. Find our training calendar here.

And for those of you who are already trained, but are looking for additional information, NCA has resources at your fingertips: CFTSI NCA Resources – NCA Engage: The Child And Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) as well as a video that was created for the 2026 Leadership Conference, CFTSI: Early Intervention, Lasting Impact.

We encourage you to learn more about CFTSI and how it can help you help children and families.

________________________________________________________

[1] Carla Smith Stover, Hilary Hahn, Kaitlin R. Maciejewski, Carrie Epstein, Steven Marans,

The child and family traumatic stress intervention: Factors associated with symptom reduction for children receiving treatment, Child Abuse & Neglect, Volume 134, 2022.

[2] Goslin, M. C., & Epstein, C. (2024). Telehealth Delivery of the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention is Associated With Reduced Posttraumatic Stress in Children and Caregivers. Child Maltreatment, 29(3), 430-439.

Go back to our Blog