TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention)

TBRI is an evidence-based intervention created to bring hope to families whose children have experienced trauma (birth, developmental, adoption, medical, loss, etc.). This intervention also is a great fit for many families whose child has not experienced trauma. It is centered on attachment and connecting to the heart of the child to help him/her meet their needs in an appropriate way. There are three core principles of TBRI: Connect, Empower, Correct. 

Connect: When adults are connected to their children, shame falls away. Regulated parents creating felt safety for their child, allows the brain to start a journey of healing. The connect principle provides strategies for parents to learn how to create an environment of safety and connection. This is the first step in creating a trusted r relationship with a child. 

Empower: “See the need, meet the need.” This principle provides parents and children with the tools to identify and meet the child’s needs. When needs are met, a child can explore and grow. When needs are not met, a child is trapped in fight/flight/freeze. 

Correct: When children are connected to their parents and empowered to get their needs met, correction is far less necessary. When it is, however, this principle guides parents through simple steps to take to level their child’s behavior and reconnect to the heart of their child. 

TBRI consists of parent coaching and child intervention to create a sense of connection between parents and their child. This intervention helps parents feel more confident in how to respond to their child. It also provides the child with tools and practice in responding in an appropriate way. Parents and their children walk away feeling empowered and connected. 

• Watch this video
• Read The Connected Child by Karyn Purvis and David Cross.
• Read more information from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development 
• Listen to the TBRI podcast