Implementing Telehealth-Based TF-CBT with Support of Interpretation: A Case Study

Abstract

Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for the reduction of trauma symptoms among trauma-exposed children and adolescents. Although the effectiveness of TF-CBT has been repeatedly evidenced when administered via telehealth or in non-English languages, no work has examined the effectiveness of TF-CBT through telehealth and with support of language interpretation. Providing information about TF-CBT implementation via telehealth utilizing interpreter services can help to reduce barriers to evidence-based care among trauma-exposed youth. The present case study reviews a treatment case of two teen siblings, for whom TF-CBT was administered through telehealth, and whose caregiver’s primary language was Spanish. The teens reported experiencing multiple traumatic events and evidenced subthreshold posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, which were impairing their mood and interactions with others. TF-CBT was completed over the course of 15 sessions through a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform, using interpretation support in caregiver meetings. Both teens evidenced reductions in trauma symptoms at post-treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness of TF-CBT in this case which utilized interpretation and telehealth. Guidelines, considerations, challenges, and lessons learned specific to both interpretation and telehealth are discussed.