Trauma-Focused
Child Therapy Services
Small Talk CAC provides therapy services to clients (ages 3-18) who have participated in a forensic interview. Individual therapy sessions are customized to address the unique needs of each client. Active caregiver involvement is essential. Therapy services at Small Talk CAC are provided free of charge. Client’s and/or caregiver’s insurance(s) will not be billed.
Mental health professionals looking to refer in can email our Clinical Director Kayelynn Abramski, LMSW.
More Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Clinical Specialties
Therapeutic Mission
Therapy is guided by the client and the family. We work at the child's pace and walk with them on their healing journey. Our treatment models include: Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Art and Play Interventions.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based therapy model used with children ages 3-18 to treat post-traumatic stress symptoms. The goal of TF-CBT is to reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms through skill building and processing of the trauma event(s). TF-CBT includes individual sessions with the child, and conjoint sessions with their legal caregiver.
Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)
Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) is a brief 5-8 session evidenced-based intervention used with children ages 7-18 and their legal caregivers during the acute phase of trauma response. The goal of CFTSI is to interrupt the onset of post-traumatic stress symptoms. CFTSI works to increase awareness of symptoms and trauma reminders, implement helpful coping strategies, and increase communication between child and caregiver about the child’s trauma symptoms.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidenced-based model used for adolescents ages 14-18 to treat cognitive and emotional challenges after trauma. CPT focuses on trauma processing through challenging negative thoughts and skill building. CPT also aims to help individuals regain a sense of safety, control, and self-worth that may have been affected by the trauma.
Art and Play Interventions
Art and Play Interventions build upon our chosen therapy models and the natural way children learn and express their thoughts and feelings. Art and play interventions are effective for children with a wide variety of emotional, social, behavioral, and learning problems and can be helpful for those who are not able or ready to verbalize their experiences. A parent’s active involvement is crucial for achieving the most positive treatment effects.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is an opportunity for clients and caregivers to connect with others who are experiencing similar thoughts, feelings, and situations. Groups can be supportive, educational, and skill building opportunity in a safe and supportive environment. Group therapy is facilitated by Therapists at Small Talk CAC and occur on a periodic basis based on interest/needs. If you are interested in learning more about group therapy options at Small Talk, please contact Kayelynn Abramski, LMSW, Clinical Director.
FAQs About Therapy
What are the benefits of therapy?
Clients will have the opportunity to process their emotions and trauma experiences with a neutral party. Following therapy, clients often report increased coping skills, engagement in healthy relationships, decreased feelings of depression and anxiety, and a brighter outlook on their present and future life.
Is therapy mandatory?
At Small Talk CAC, our philosophy is that therapy should be a personal choice and is completely voluntary. Research suggests that motivation and willingness to participate are large factors in determining success in therapy.
Are sessions held in-person or virtually?
Small Talk CAC offers both in-person and virtual options for therapy services. The method and frequency of therapy sessions can vary based on therapeutic approach, client needs, and the Therapist’s judgment.
How often are therapy sessions scheduled?
Individual therapy sessions are customized to address the unique needs of each client. Session duration varies from 30–60 minutes. The duration and frequency of therapy sessions can vary based on therapeutic approach, client needs, and the Therapist’s judgment. If any barriers arise during therapy services, please contact a Small Talk CAC Therapist to discuss options for support.
Can therapists be involved in court?
Small Talk CAC Therapists may attend court hearings as a support person during criminal court proceedings, upon client request and Therapist availability.
To remain neutral and protect client confidentiality and therapeutic relationships, court testimony, court letters, recommendations in custody cases, or parenting time recommendations are outside of the scope of practices for Small Talk CAC Therapists.
In terms of Problematic Sexual Behaviors (PSB), the PSB Screener is not intended to be utilized in custody cases and/or as a recommendation for custody agreements. Small Talk CAC does not provide custody recommendations based on the results of the PSB Screener. Participation in the screener does not guarantee enrollment in Small Talk CAC’s therapy services.