WHAT IS TBRI?

TBRI is a phrase heard often in the explanation and implementation of our programs, but what exactly is it? 

TBRI is a trauma-informed, attachment-based intervention that was created to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children- it stands for Trust Based Relational Intervention. Trust is learned in the first year of life, and youth who have experienced trauma have experienced a serious breach in trust. Without intervention, the effects of this can intensify later in adolescence and adulthood, especially if the trauma was of an interpersonal nature, say with a parent or sibling. Layers of trauma from abuse, neglect, maltreatment, system effects such as homelessness, discrimination, and multiple foster placements can worsen the child's ability to emotionally regulate or accept affection. TBRI can be used as a therapeutic model for those caring for vulnerable children to be able to provide effective support and rebuild connections in the brain that were missing or damaged by traumatic life events.
TBRI is not only seen in homes where parenting is taking place, but also in residential homes for youth, group homes, schools, juvenile detention facilities, and clinical practices & therapy.  Many foster parenting classes teach the principles of TBRI as well. When you join Cleveland Angels as a volunteer, our staff offers orientation and discussion on TBRI, to give you an understanding of how the way you interact and relate to a child can truly be healing.

TBRI uses 3 main sets of principles that look at the child as a WHOLE. Here's a quick explanation of how TBRI supports healing in children with trauma.

1. Empowering Principles: This principle focuses on addressing the physical needs of the child, such as hydration, food, and creating a predictable daily routine. This principle helps children learn the importance of self regulation and also builds their trust when their basic needs are being met.

2. Connecting Principles: This principle focuses on the interaction between the child and caregiver that produces warmth and trust. Behavioral matching, playful engagement, eye contact, healthy touch, and being aware about tone of voice are ways to be intentional about connecting with vulnerable children. This principle focuses on the fact that connecting can disarm fear, gain trust, and enhance learning in youth.

3. Correcting Principles: This principle focuses on shaping behaviors and beliefs effectively so that children feel safe, protected and empowered. Using proactive strategies such as teaching self regulation and social skills, as well as reactive strategies that display effective and positive communication in response to the child's behavior.

Interested in exploring TBRI more? Here is a great resource to further your knowledge!
TBRI® 101: A Self-Guided Course in Trust-Based Relationships

Sources: “TBRI®.” Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development,
child.tcu.edu/about-us/tbri/#sthash.JRYa8W27.dpbs. Accessed 26 Jan. 2024. 

AUTHOR

Chloe Stratton is a Case Manager at Cleveland Angels.