Trauma Systems Therapy (TST)

What is Trauma Systems Therapy (TST)?

Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, focusing on both the child’s emotional needs and their environment, such as home, school, and community. The model uses a multidisciplinary team to address emotional and behavioral difficulties by coordinating care across various systems. TST is designed to improve emotional regulation, stability, and safety for traumatized youth and their families.

How Does it Work ?

Comprehensive Approach

TST goes beyond individual therapy to include the social, environmental, and systemic factors impacting a child’s trauma. It addresses the child’s difficulties with emotional and behavioral regulation and the systems that may be failing to support them adequately.

Focus On “Trauma System”

The concept of the “trauma system” is central to TST, recognizing the interconnectedness of the traumatized child and their environment. When a child experiences a traumatic reminder, it can trigger episodes of uncontrolled emotion or behavior that are difficult to manage.

Multidisciplinary Teams

TST is implemented by a team that can include therapists, psychiatrists, parent partners, and other specialists. This team-based approach allows for coordinated care across different providers and systems.

Integrated Treatment Components

The therapy model includes a combination of skill-based psychotherapy, home and community-based care, advocacy, and, when appropriate, psychopharmacology.

Sequential Phases

The treatment is structured in three sequential phases to first focus on safety, then skill-building, and finally to address more complex trauma-related issues.

Versatile Application

TST is used in a variety of settings where children with trauma histories are served, including foster care, residential treatment centers, schools, and juvenile justice programs.

Who It Helps

Children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events, such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence.

Children who live in environments with ongoing stress or traumatic reminders.

Youth who have difficulty regulating their emotions and behavior.