An evaluation of trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy for children in Zambia

Laura K. Murray, Itziar Familiar, Stephanie Skavenski, Elizabeth Jere, Judy Cohen, Mwiya Imasiku, John Mayeya, Judith K. Bass, Paul Bolton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

60 Scopus citations

Abstract

To monitor and evaluate the feasibility of implementing Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to address trauma and stress-related symptoms in orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Zambia as part of ongoing programming within a non-governmental organization (NGO). As part of ongoing programming, voluntary care-workers administered locally validated assessments to identify children who met criteria for moderate to severe trauma symptomatology. Local lay counselors implemented TF-CBT with identified families, while participating in ongoing supervision. Fifty-eight children and adolescents aged 5-18 completed the TF-CBT treatment, with pre- and post-assessments. The mean number of traumas reported by the treatment completers (N= 58) was 4.11. Post assessments showed significant reductions in severity of trauma symptoms (p<. 0.0001), and severity of shame symptoms (p<. 0.0001). Our results suggest that TF-CBT is a feasible treatment option in Zambia for OVC. A decrease in symptoms suggests that a controlled trial is warranted. Implementation factors monitored suggest that it is feasible to integrate and evaluate evidence-based mental health assessments and intervention into programmatic services run by an NGO in low/middle resource countries. Results also support the effectiveness of implementation strategies such as task shifting, and the Apprenticeship Model of training and supervision.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1175-1185
Number of pages11
JournalChild Abuse and Neglect
Volume37
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2013

Keywords

  • Child trauma
  • Evidence-based treatment
  • Implementation
  • International
  • Low-resource setting

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Developmental and Educational Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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