The information in this program outline is provided by the program representative and edited by the CEBC staff. The Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) program has been rated by the CEBC in the areas of: Anxiety Treatment (Child & Adolescent) and Trauma Treatment (Child & Adolescent).

• Types of Maltreatment: Does not target any specific kind of maltreatment
• Target Population: 3rd through 8th grade students who screened positive for exposure to a traumatic event and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder related to that event, largely focusing on community violence exposure. It has been used in high school settings as well.

CBITS is a school-based, group and individual intervention designed to reduce symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and behavioral problems among students exposed to traumatic life events, such as exposure to community and school violence, accidents, physical abuse, and domestic violence. It is designed for students, who have experienced a traumatic event and have current distress related to that event. The goals of the intervention are to reduce symptoms and behavior problems and improve functioning, improve peer and parent support, and enhance coping skills. The program includes 10 student group sessions, 1-3 student individual sessions, 2 parent sessions, and a teacher educational session. Developed for the school setting in close collaboration with school personnel, the program is well suited to the school environment.

The goals of CBITS are to:

• Reduce symptoms related to trauma exposure.
• Build skills and enhance resilience to stress.
• Build peer and caregiver support.