Murphy-Harpst is excited to share how Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is making a positive impact in our residential care setting. TBRI is a trauma-informed approach designed to meet the complex needs of children who have experienced adversity, toxic stress, and relational trauma. These experiences can disrupt healthy development and create challenges in forming trusting relationships and managing emotions and behaviors. TBRI was developed at Texas Christian University and has gained recognition for its effectiveness in helping children who have faced traumatic experiences, often referred to as “children from hard places.” This approach provides practical tools and strategies to create a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes healing and growth.

How TBRI Works

TBRI is based on three core principles: Empowering, Connecting, and Correcting. These principles work together to address the child’s physical, emotional, and behavioral needs in a holistic way.

• Empowering: Creating a safe and predictable environment where children feel physically and emotionally secure.
• Connecting: Building trusting relationships through attuned communication, playful engagement, and healthy touch.
• Correcting: Responding to challenging behaviors with understanding and compassion, while teaching appropriate social and emotional skills.

TBRI in Action at Murphy-Harpst

Denzel Darden, campus manager and TBRI trainer at Murphy-Harpst, has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of TBRI.”We have seen a significant decrease in our Emergency Safety Interventions campus-wide. Staff are now more mindful and self-aware in handling youth in crisis, using healthy connection and proximity control instead of resorting to physical restraint.””TBRI is a game-changer. We have heard from our foster parents that they wish all families would have to take this class before they become foster parents.”

Success Stories

• Decreased Emergency Safety Interventions: Staff are using de-escalation techniques and building relationships to manage crisis situations more effectively.
• Improved Staff Confidence: TBRI training has equipped staff with the skills and knowledge to feel more comfortable and competent in their roles.
• Stronger Therapeutic Relationships: Staff are using TBRI principles to connect with youth, understand their behavior, and build trusting relationships.
• Positive Outcomes for Youth: Children are experiencing greater felt safety, improved emotional regulation, and enhanced social skills.

Next Steps

Murphy-Harpst is committed to continuing the TBRI journey. We are excited to see how TBRI will continue to shape a therapeutic environment where children feel safe, loved, and empowered to heal and grow.