Trauma-Focused Therapy Services
The Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center has multiple full-time and contracted therapists who provide evidence-based therapy to victims of child abuse. Therapists work closely with clients to determine an individualized treatment program for each child. The majority of clients are child victims; however, we recognize that abuse may also cause trauma to family members. Caregiver involvement, regular attendance, and practicing skills learned in therapy are vital to the success of therapy.
Staff and contracted therapists have been trained to provide treatment using a variety of modalities, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment that is proven to be highly effective in treating victims of abuse and is shown to help children, adolescents, and their parents (or other caregivers) overcome trauma-related difficulties. This style of therapy helps children learn skills to help them cope with ordinary life stressors and also helps parents who were not abusive to cope effectively with their own emotional distress and develop skills that support their children.
Our clinicians are also trained in play therapy, a type of treatment designed specifically for children typically under the age of 12, and EMDR, a treatment designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Our licensed therapists work with clients directly to determine the most effective and appropriate treatment for them.
Our Therapy Team
Brooke Karr, MS, LCSW-S, Clinical Director
Laura Pierce, MA, LPC-Associate, NCC, Counselor, Supervised by Lola V. McGee, PhD, LPC-S, RPT
Katie Moss, Program Specialist
Post-Traumatic Stress
Victims of child abuse often experience symptoms that can greatly impact their overall quality of life, with some children and teens developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The following symptoms may occur after a traumatic event:
- Sadness
- Fearfulness
- Avoidant behavior
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Poor grades
- Drug/alcohol use
- Self-harm
These symptoms can be normal reactions to abuse; however, it is important for children to learn healthy ways of coping to decrease these symptoms. Therapy is a critical part of the healing process. Even if a child does not have symptoms, it can be beneficial for a child to speak with a trauma-focused therapist to process what happened. With the support of a protective caregiver and effective treatment, a child can recover without long-term negative effects.
New Clients
Child victims and their non-offending caregivers have the option to receive therapy at no cost to them through the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center. To learn more, get in touch with our therapy team.
