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. The training dates are: 10/28/2026 – 10/30/2026, and you can click here to register.

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.

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[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.

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