The information in this program outline is provided by the program representative and edited by the CEBC staff. The Forensically Sensitive Therapy (FST) program has been reviewed by the CEBC in the area of: Trauma Treatment (Child & Adolescent), but lacks the necessary research evidence to be given either a Scientific Rating or a Child Welfare Relevance Rating.

• Child Welfare Outcomes: Not Specified
• Types of Maltreatment: Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Exposure to Domestic Violence
• Target Population: Children 3-17 years of age who have experienced sexual abuse trauma.

FST was created in response to the need for a therapy model that can be used effectively with child sexual abuse victims when criminal and civil court cases are actively pending. It is employed at the conclusion of the investigative process, when a decision has been made that sexual abuse is likely to have occurred, the case is being sent forward for prosecution, and the child is exhibiting signs of trauma. The FST model is an ecological approach that uses multiple modalities of intervention, including:

1. therapy for the child's sexual abuse trauma that includes both the child and non-offending caregiver
2. specific intervention and support for the non-offending caregiver pertaining to the multiple losses sustained in the aftermath of sexual abuse discovery
3. interface with the Criminal Justice System and criminal court
4. interface with Child Protective Services and civil courts, and
   
5. interface with schools and other professionals typically involved in child abuse cases.