Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT)

This issue brief is intended to build a better understanding of the characteristics and benefits of AF-CBT, an evidence-supported intervention that targets (1) diverse individual child and caregiver characteristics related to conflict and intimidation in the home and (2) the family context in which aggression or abuse may occur. It was written primarily to help child welfare caseworkers and other professionals who work with at-risk families make more informed decisions about when to refer children and their parents and caregivers to AF-CBT programs. This information also may help parents, foster parents, and other caregivers understand what they and their children can gain from AF-CBT and what to expect during treatment. 

Acknowledgment(s): This issue brief was developed by Child Welfare Information Gateway, in partnership with the Chadwick Center for Children and Families at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego. Contributing authors include David Kolko, Ph.D., ABPP; Daniel Kleiner, Psy.D.; Barbara Baumann, Ph.D.; and Charles Wilson, M.S.S.W. This document is made possible by the Children's Bureau, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The conclusions discussed here are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not represent the official views or policies of the funding agency. The Children's Bureau does not endorse any specific treatment or therapy. 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.