P-29 Case study review of applying trauma- focused cognitive behvaioural therapy in child sexual abuse interventions at child advocacy centre
Author(s):
M Hutson, Q Jones
Year of Presentation:
2025
Objective: To examine the effectiveness of the application of trauma- focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TFCBT) in child sexual abuse (CSA) cases as applied by a
child advocacy center (CAC).
Methods: Multiple-case design of three CSA cases. Review and analysis of case records including standardized tests: Child Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale applied pre and post therapeutic intervention.
Results: This study confirms that TF-CBT can be effective in as few as 8 sessions for reducing symptoms of PTSD as is reflected in post- therapy CPTSD scores. Post- therapy application of the CPTSD scale is being recommended as a standard operation procedure by the CAC. Pre and post therapy use of the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale of ‘Thinking about family relationships for children/young people over 11 years old’ is also encouraged as a measure of the positive effect of TF-CBT as applied by the CAC. The study highlighted inconsistent parent / guardian engagement in the therapeutic process which should be addressed.
Conclusion: These findings will facilitate the enhancement of the CAC’s program monitoring and evaluation strategies. This study in itself is limited through its methodology for making conclusive generalizations, however it provides a promising review on case management and possibly emerging practices in the field of child therapy in Guyana that should be documented and shared with other practitioners.