Child Accelerated Trauma Therapy

For children who have been through difficult or overwhelming experiences, traditional talk therapy isn’t always enough. Child Accelerated Trauma Therapy offers a gentle yet focused approach to help process traumatic memories in a safe, structured way.

Sessions use creative methods alongside evidence-based trauma techniques, supporting the child to work through their experiences without becoming re-traumatised. Every step is carefully paced and guided by their readiness.

The aim is to reduce the weight of traumatic memories, helping children feel safer, more resilient, and more able to engage fully in life again.

 

How it works

 

While there isn't a single, universally accepted definition, there are several core principles that I incorporate. 

 

1. Trauma-Focused Therapy:

• CATT typically draws from trauma-focused therapy, which is a broad category of therapeutic techniques that help children process and heal from traumatic experiences. 

• The aim of trauma-focused therapy is to help children process their traumatic memories, understand their emotional responses, and develop healthier coping strategies.

 

2. Safe and Structured Environment:

• I create a safe environment for the child. This helps them feel secure enough to explore their traumatic experiences without feeling overwhelmed or retraumatised.

• I work to establish trust and safety, which is essential for trauma survivors, particularly children.

 

3. Accelerated Healing:

•  In CATT, the goal is to help the child process the trauma more quickly and move toward healing faster.

• This might involve a more intensive approach to more traditional therapy, with multiple sessions per week or focused interventions that encourage rapid emotional processing.

 

4. Child-Centred Techniques:

• CATT is designed to be developmentally appropriate for children, using methods and techniques that are engaging, playful, and tailored to the child's age and emotional maturity.

• Children often lack the vocabulary or emotional awareness to fully express their trauma verbally, so I use play or art therapy to support them

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