Introduction
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, widely known as TF-CBT, has become one of the leading evidence-based treatments for children and adolescents affected by trauma. Over the last decade, Australia has seen the model not only introduced but embedded into clinical practice through training, research, and international collaboration. The journey of TF-CBT in Australia reflects both the dedication of clinicians and the importance of mentorship, supervision, and structured training pathways.
At the heart of this story is the recognition that trauma informed practice must be grounded in research and implemented with fidelity. The path from initial training to the establishment of TF-CBT Australia demonstrates how evidence-based models can transform the care available to vulnerable children and families.
The Beginnings: Training in 2015
In 2015, two clinicians working in public health participated in TF-CBT training with Dr Laura Murray. For both, this experience was transformative. TF-CBT offered a structured model with a strong evidence base that seemed capable of making a real difference in the lives of young people experiencing trauma.
At that time, the clinicians were working in an acute adolescent mental health unit where the dominant focus was on stabilisation. Integrating TF-CBT was a significant change, but the clinicians recognised its potential. They adapted their service to allow three sessions per week, engaging both young people and their parents or caregivers. This early implementation phase provided valuable insights and confirmed that TF-CBT could be delivered successfully in acute settings.
Building Confidence and Momentum
The years that followed were marked by steady application of the model. Clinicians worked directly with children and families, observing first-hand the benefits that TF-CBT brought. They reported reduced trauma symptoms, improved emotional regulation, and stronger family support. These early successes built confidence and highlighted the need to expand TF-CBT training and supervision across Australia.
In 2018, international collaboration strengthened when one of the clinicians travelled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to meet the model’s developers, including Drs Anthony Mannarino and Judith Cohen. The mentoring relationships formed during this time reinforced the belief that TF-CBT could and should become more widely available in Australia.
Research and Evidence
A major milestone came in 2019 with the publication of research conducted in an acute adolescent mental health unit. The study demonstrated that TF-CBT could be effectively adapted to a three sessions per week format. For young people who completed TF-CBT, post-traumatic stress symptoms decreased significantly, and global functioning improved.
This evidence confirmed what clinicians had already seen in practice: TF-CBT works in intensive settings and delivers measurable outcomes. By publishing these findings, TF-CBT Australia contributed to the international evidence base, further validating the model’s adaptability.
International Training and Certification
In 2020, Australian clinicians were invited to participate in the International TF-CBT Train the Trainers program. This opportunity involved consultation with Dr Anthony Mannarino, Dr Judith Cohen, Dr Esther Deblinger, and other leading clinicians from around the world. Despite time zone challenges between Sydney and Pittsburgh, the collaboration was embraced with enthusiasm.
In February 2021, the clinicians successfully completed the program and were certified as TF-CBT trainers in Australia. This certification represented not just professional achievement but also a step toward establishing a structured national training and supervision framework.
Establishing TF-CBT Australia
With certification and international mentorship in place, TF-CBT Australia formally began offering structured training and supervision opportunities for clinicians nationwide. The mission extended beyond training individuals to building sustainable systems that embed TF-CBT into practice.
A strong emphasis was placed on supervision and consultation, recognising that fidelity to the model is essential for effective outcomes. By offering both individual supervision and group consultation, TF-CBT Australia created pathways for clinicians to continue developing skills long after initial training.
Expanding Through Psychology Training and Supervision
In 2022, the journey expanded further with the establishment of Psychology Training and Supervision. This initiative was designed to provide accessible, evidence-based training and supervision opportunities across Australia. The focus was not limited to TF-CBT but also included other evidence-based interventions, ensuring that clinicians could develop a broad set of skills to address the diverse needs of children and families.
This expansion has allowed TF-CBT Australia to reach more clinicians, offer more flexible training options, and strengthen the network of practitioners committed to trauma informed care.
The Broader Impact on Clinical Practice
The journey of TF-CBT in Australia has had a ripple effect far beyond the initial training group. It has:
- Improved clinical outcomes: Children and adolescents completing TF-CBT show reduced trauma symptoms, improved emotional regulation, and better functioning.
- Strengthened family involvement: Parents and caregivers are engaged as active participants in the healing process.
- Supported clinicians: Ongoing supervision helps therapists maintain fidelity, build confidence, and reduce burnout.
- Enhanced professional networks: Through international and national collaboration, clinicians are part of a supportive learning community.
- Influenced systems of care: Public health services, schools, and community programs now have greater access to evidence-based trauma treatment.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Several key lessons have emerged from the TF-CBT journey in Australia:
- Mentorship is essential: Guidance from international developers provided not only technical knowledge but also encouragement and confidence.
- Supervision ensures fidelity: Consistent supervision and consultation protect against drift from the model and support ongoing professional growth.
- Adaptability matters: TF-CBT can be successfully delivered in different formats, including intensive three-session-per-week structures.
- Research strengthens practice: Publishing evidence builds credibility and contributes to the global knowledge base.
- Community creates sustainability: Building a network of trained clinicians ensures that TF-CBT continues to expand and thrive.
Looking Ahead
The journey of TF-CBT in Australia is far from complete. As demand for trauma-informed interventions grows, the focus will remain on expanding access, maintaining fidelity, and supporting clinicians through supervision and consultation.
TF-CBT Australia continues to provide structured training opportunities, high-quality supervision, and strong professional networks. The commitment is not only to equip clinicians with skills but also to ensure that children and families receive the very best care informed by research and practice.
Conclusion
From its beginnings in 2015 to the establishment of TF-CBT Australia, the journey reflects a clear vision: to bring evidence-based trauma treatment to the children and families who need it most. Through training, research, international mentorship, and national collaboration, TF-CBT has become a cornerstone of trauma-informed care in Australia.
By prioritising supervision, consultation, and professional development, TF-CBT Australia ensures that the model continues to be applied with fidelity and compassion. For clinicians, it is not just a therapy model but a professional pathway that brings lasting change to their practice. For children and families, it offers hope, healing, and resilience.
