Kids and Families Together
Our Therapeutic Approaches
Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI)®
TBRI® is a holistic, evidence-based approach that is multidisciplinary, flexible, and attachment-based. It is a trauma-informed intervention that is specifically designed to meet the complex needs of children who have experienced trauma and attachment disruptions, such as maltreatment, abuse, neglect, multiple home placements, and violence, but is an approach that can be used by parents and caregivers with all children. TBRI® consists of three sets of harmonious principles: Connecting (to address attachment needs), Empowering (to address physical needs), and Correcting (to address fear-based behavioral needs). These principles can be used in homes (e.g., birth homes, foster homes, kinship homes, adoptive homes, etc.), schools, orphanages, residential treatment centers, and other environments. They are designed to be used by parents and caregivers with children and youth of all ages and risk levels. TBRI® is based upon how optimal development should have occurred. By helping caregivers understand what should have happened in early development (including prenatal development), TBRI® principles can be used by parents and caregivers to help guide children and youth back to their natural developmental trajectory. The TBRI® Caregiver Training is a group, in-person, parent training program offered twice a year at K&FT. The majority of K&FT therapists and staff have received the TBRI® Caregiver Training and we have two TBRI® Practitioners on our staff.
Theraplay®
Theraplay® is an evidence-based, structured play therapy for children and their caregivers. The goal of Theraplay® is to enhance attachment, self-esteem, and trust in others. Behavioral problems can often be traced back to insecure attachments in the early years; a time that is critical in the development of self-esteem and trust. Because of this, Theraplay® activities are based on the child’s current emotional level rather than their chronological age. Activities, which are chosen by the therapist, are simple and aimed at creating a sense of closeness between the child and the caregiver. Sessions are playful, yet structured, and guided by the caregiver. This allows the child to recognize the caregiver as someone who is nurturing and able to provide guidance. The majority of our therapists have received Theraplay® Level One training, some have received Level Two training, and two are certified in Theraplay®.
Parent Education/Training: Nurturing Connections
Psychoeducational support for caregivers of children with a history of trauma and insecure attachments. These children often display behaviors that are frustrating and sometimes baffling to their caregivers. Without a deeper understanding of why children are acting the way they are and without support and specific tools to help with challenging behaviors, caregivers often become overwhelmed and are unable to parent to the best of their ability. Topics include: attachment, development, trauma, resilience, therapeutic parenting, co-parenting, making sense of your attachment history, grief and loss, self-care, play and family bonding, and adoption.
