Evaluating the effectiveness of telehealth-delivered Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) for children and adolescents following recent trauma: a multi-zite randomized controlled trial in France.

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events (TEs) are at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with long-term emotional, cognitive, and social consequences. Early interventions within the first months post-trauma are essential, yet structured, evidence-based approaches remain limited. The Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) is a brief, family-centered approach that enhances parental support and reduces post-traumatic symptoms. While effective in the U.S., its implementation in European settings, particularly via telehealth, remains unexplored.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the effectiveness of telehealth-delivered CFTSI in reducing post-traumatic symptoms in children aged 7-17 after recent TEs, compared to non-specific psychological support. Secondary objectives include assessing symptom persistence at three months, parental PTSD symptoms, and predictors of treatment response.

METHODS

This study is a multicenter, evaluator-blinded RCT comparing CFTSI to supportive counseling. Eligible children (aged 7-17) must have experienced a TE within the past 45 days and exhibit at least one posttraumatic stress symptom. Exclusion criteria include severe cognitive impairment, ongoing abuse, or acute psychiatric emergencies.The CFTSI group will receive 5-8 structured, family-focused telehealth sessions targeting parent-child communication and coping. The control group will receive supportive counseling. The primary outcome is post-traumatic symptom reduction, assessed using the Child Posttraumatic Stress Checklist 3 months after completion of the program. Secondary outcomes include three-month symptom persistence, parental PTSD symptoms, and predictors of response. Analyses will use ANCOVA and regression models adjusted for baseline characteristics.

DISCUSSION: This is the first RCT in France evaluating telehealth-delivered CFTSI. Conducted across four sites, findings will inform trauma care integration at regional and national levels. By improving accessibility and supporting trauma-exposed families, this study aims to enhance clinical training and advance evidence-based early interventions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov. Number NCT07031817. Registered on the 2nd of October, 2025.