Treatment

What is Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI)?

Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach designed to help caregivers build trusting relationships with children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (Texas Christian University), TBRI is particularly effective for children from hard places, such as those in foster care, adoption, or institutional settings.TBRI is used by caregivers, teachers, social workers, and mental health professionals to support children in overcoming behavioral and emotional challenges.

The three principles of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) are:

  • Connecting: Focuses on building relationships and gaining trust

  • Empowering: Focuses on meeting physical and emotional needs

  • Correcting: Focuses on guiding appropriate behaviors

TBRI is a care model that helps children and youth who have experienced trauma. The principles are designed to:

  • Build strong relationships

  • Meet physical and emotional needs

  • Guide appropriate behaviors

  • Disarm fear-based behaviors

  • Shape beliefs and behaviors

  • Help children feel safe, protected, and empowered