Conjoint Sessions — the “C” in PRACTICE
What is conjoint sessions in TF-CBT?
Conjoint sessions bring child and caregiver together with the therapist. Often the child shares part of their trauma narrative, and the family practices open, supportive communication. These joint meetings strengthen the caregiving relationship and help caregivers respond in ways that reinforce their child's recovery.
What this component is working toward
| Objective | How it works | Primary audience |
|---|---|---|
| Strengthen caregiver-child communication | Joint, therapist-facilitated sessions | Child & caregiver |
| Share the trauma narrative safely | Prepared, supported disclosure to the caregiver | Child |
| Reinforce gains at home | Coaching the caregiver's responses | Caregiver |
Official resources
Primary resources from the model developers and national authorities. Links open on their original sites.
Vetted official resources for this component are being added in the next phase. In the meantime, see the official resources on the TF-CBT hub.
Authoritative clinical resources
Validated, system-level toolkits and adaptations from established trauma centers and networks.
Optional skill-building supports
These materials are supplemental creative supports made by Skills for Children. They are not official TF-CBT model materials, not required, and should not replace clinical training, supervision, or therapist judgment. They may help reinforce this component as an optional companion at home or in session.
♪ Song — “Say It With Me”
A companion song from When Feelings Get Loud mapped to this component.
View access options ↗📱 BRAVE app module
A child-facing activity module in the free BRAVE companion app (ages 4–18).
View access options ↗Caregivers are part of TF-CBT from the start. In conjoint sessions you and your child meet together with the therapist to share, communicate, and practice supporting each other.
About conjoint sessions
This page is an evidence-informed educational resource, not clinical advice or a substitute for treatment by a trained TF-CBT therapist. TF-CBT was developed by Cohen, Mannarino, and Deblinger. Official model resources are linked to their original publishers; Skills for Children does not host proprietary clinical materials. Resources curated by Joshua Fisherkeller, MSW.