Table 1 Content of weekly TF-CBT double sessions according to Cohen et al. [29]

1

Psychoeducation, Parenting skills:

Psychoeducation about trauma, trauma-related symptoms and the rationale of TF-CBT, normalizing the symptoms, teaching positive parenting skills (e.g., praise, active ignoring, contingency management strategies)

2

Relaxation:

Information about the rationale of relaxation, demonstration and practicing relaxation techniques (progressive muscle relaxation, and/or controlled breathing)

3

Affective modulation:

Explanation of rationale, identification of feelings, expression of feelings, rating the intensity level of emotions, positive self-instructions, coping with difficult/ unpleasant emotions, thought stopping, teaching problem-solving strategies

4

Cognitive processing I:

Outline the cognitive triangle, identify dysfunctional thoughts in daily life, help the child generate more accurate and helpful thoughts

5-8

Trauma narrative:

Decide on a format for the narrative, describe the perception of event including the worst moment, read the narrative, add thoughts and feelings

9

   Cognitive processing II:

Exploring and correcting cognitive errors concerning the traumatic experience (e.g., cognitions of guilt).

10

In vivo exposure:

Explaining the rationale, development of a “plan” (if necessary instruct caregiver for co-therapeutic expo)

11

Conjoint child/caregiver session:

Explaining the rationale, prepare child and parent for conjoint session, sharing the trauma narrative, answering questions, increase communication

12

Enhancing safety and future skills:

Developing a feeling of safety, a safety plan, teaching safety skills