Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®)

A photo to represent the softness of the grief and trauma therapy space. Close-up of purple succulent plants with thick, fleshy leaves, in a dark, moody setting.

At Safe Haven Counseling, we understand that every child’s journey is unique, especially those who have experienced early trauma, abuse, neglect, or hardship. Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) is an evidence-based, trauma-informed care model specifically designed to meet the complex needs of children who come from hard places.

The TBRI® Approach

  1. Connecting: This principle focuses on building secure attachment and connection between caregiver and child. Through nurturing and attuned interactions, caregivers can foster a sense of safety and belonging, which is foundational for healing.

  2. Empowering: This aspect emphasizes meeting the physical, emotional, and sensory needs of the child. Empowering children to feel safe and cared for—physically and emotionally—helps to regulate behavior and emotional responses.

  3. Correcting: TBRI®'s corrective strategies are designed to teach respect, self-regulation, and appropriate behavior in a way that is nurturing and trauma-sensitive, fostering growth without shaming or punitive measures.

A photo to represent the softness of the grief and trauma therapy space. A field of blooming daisies with white petals and yellow centers.

  • TBRI® is a holistic approach to caregiving and therapeutic intervention, developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development. It focuses on building a strong, trust-filled relationship between caregivers and children while addressing behavioral, emotional, and developmental challenges. The three pillars of TBRI®—Connecting, Empowering, and Correcting—are at the heart of this transformative approach.

  • TBRI® is especially beneficial for:

    • Families who have adopted or are fostering children from hard places

    • Children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, or early adversity

    • Caregivers looking for practical tools to build trust and strengthen relationships

    • Families struggling with challenging behaviors, attachment difficulties, or emotional regulation

  • We provide families with tailored support that honors the unique challenges of parenting children who have experienced trauma. Whether you're seeking strategies for dealing with difficult behaviors or building deeper emotional bonds with your child, TBRI® offers practical, compassionate, and sustainable tools for creating lasting change.

  • In TBRI® sessions at Safe Haven Counseling, we work together to explore:

    • Relationship-building techniques that strengthen trust and communication

    • Understanding trauma and how it impacts your child’s brain, behavior, and development

    • Practical strategies for reducing power struggles, improving emotional regulation, and promoting healthy boundaries

    • Customized action plans to implement TBRI® principles in your daily life