Main goal
The study has three objectives:
-
provide therapists with training in a trauma-focused therapy model
-
implement this model in regular outpatient clinics
-
study whether this therapy model works better in relation to traumatized children and young people than usual outpatient practice
The therapy model that was tested is Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
TF-CBT was developed by Ester Deblinger, Judy Cohen and Anthony Mannarino in the USA. It was first used on children exposed to sexual abuse. Gradually, it has been adapted for children who have been exposed to other types of trauma such as violence, witnessing violence and simple disasters. In addition, efforts are being made to adapt the model to children who have been exposed to traumatic grief. Several studies show a documented effect, and the treatment principles have been included in the "Best Practice" guidelines in the USA and England.
NKVTS is the first to test TF-CBT in Europe. Experiences from this study formed the basis for a large implementation project where TF-CBT is now being implemented in the country's BUPs.
Method
The study is a randomised, controlled study and has been carried out in 8 regular outpatient clinics in Norway. Therapists from these outpatient clinics were trained in the model. Other therapists at the outpatient clinics will participate in the study as a control group.
Children and young people who meet the criteria for participation were randomly assigned to receive TF-CBT or therapy that is usually given in the outpatient clinic. The children were examined at the start of treatment, during the course of therapy, at the end of treatment, one year after the start of treatment and 18 months. after the end of treatment.
Specially trained therapists review all therapy sessions with the aim of checking that the therapists carry out TF-CBT according to the model and that the control group does not use TF-CBT (treatment fidelity). The therapists receive regular supervision.