Flexibility with Fidelity

I love this abstract as it highlights an important aspect of evidence-based practice: we are not rigid or robot practictioners! We can and must tailor the essential program components to fit the client(s) sitting in front of us.

Title:
Implementing trauma-focused CBT with fidelity and flexibility: A family case study

Author:
Kerig, Patricia K.; Sink, Holli E.; Cuellar, Raven E.; Vanderzee, Karin L.; Elfstrom, Jennifer L.

Source:
Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. Vol 39(5), Sep 2010, pp. 713-722

Descriptors:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy*; Family*; Grief*; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder*; Trauma*; Evidence Based Practice

Abstract:
Effective approaches for the treatment of childhood posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic grief are needed given the prevalence of trauma and its impact on children's lives. To effectively treat posttraumatic stress disorder in children, evidence-based practices should be implemented with flexibility and responsiveness to culture, developmental level, and the specific needs of the family. This case study illustrates flexibility with fidelity in the use of a manualized treatment, describing the implementation of Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy with three traumatized family members: a caregiver and two children. Particular attention is paid to the use of creative strategies to tailor interventions to the individual clients while maintaining fidelity to the principles and components of this evidence-based treatment.