Main description:

Trauma can be defined as exposure to a shocking, distressing, or emotionally painful event that can result in negative mental and physical health effects. Due to its interference with development, childhood trauma is particularly detrimental and can result in symptoms including posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, dissociation, externalizing behavioral problems, and suicidal ideation. It can increase the risk of substance use, school
disengagement, and academic difficulties, and it has been associated with attentional impairment, cognitive performance, and the development of self-regulation.

Cue-Centered Therapy for Youth Experiencing Posttraumatic Symptoms presents a psychosocial treatment approach for children and adolescents who have been exposed to chronic traumatic experiences. Cue-Centered Therapy (CCT) derives its name from its focus on the conditioning process that results in sensitivity towards trauma-related cues. CCT addresses four core domains: cognition, behavior, emotions, and physiology, through a combination of empirically supported and CCT-specific
interventions. This structured and flexible Therapist Guide focuses on helping the youth develop insight into his/her own patterns of behaviors and emotions. Rather than having youth attempt to "unlearn" maladaptive responses conditioned to cues, CCT focuses on creating new connections and behavioral responses. The
treatment manual offers guidelines on conducting each of the sessions while respecting the individual therapist's own strengths. Through the use of visual icons, forms, and figures, the manual facilitates teaching relevant lessons. The therapy reduces negative cognitions, allows for emotional expression, identifies and changes trauma-related responses, empowers with knowledge and skills, and strengthens the relationship between the caregiver and his/her child.

Contents:

Chapter 1 Introductory Information for Therapists
Chapter 2 Diagnostic Criteria and Assessment
Chapter 3 Assessment of the Child

Phase 1
Chapter 4 Session 1: Education
Chapter 5 Session 2 & 3: Mindfulness, Relaxation, and Cognitive Tools

Phase 2
Chapter 6 Sessions 4 & 5: Chronic Traumatic Stress History
Chapter 7 Sessions 6 & 7: Processing the Chronic Traumatic Stress History

Phase 3
Chapter 8 Session 8: Mid-Therapy Update
Chapter 9 Session 9: Approaching Cues
Chapter 10 Session 10: Imaginary Exposure to Cues
Chapter 11 Session 11: Within Session Exposure to Cues
Chapter 12 Session 12: Evaluation of In-Vivo Exposure Assignment

Phase 4
Chapter 13 Session 13: Processing Chronic Traumatic Stress History 3
Chapter 14 Session 14: Closing Session 1
Chapter 15 Session 15: Closing Session 2