The Mind Body Transformation Model (MBTM): An Integrative Clinical Approach to Trauma Treatment with Children

Cortny Stark, University of Colorado Colorado Springs 
Mary Kathryn Brammer, The University of New Mexico 
Gene Crofts, The University of New Mexico  

Children exposed to traumatic events often experience emotional, physical, and  psychological disturbances as well as disruption of the normative course of development. 

Meeting the needs of child survivors requires flexibility and individualized care. The  integrative trauma treatment approach presented here, the Mind Body Transformation  Model (MBTM), provides practitioners with an innovative framework for organizing  trauma treatment for minor clients. The primary aim of this approach is to mitigate the  immediate impact of trauma and remediate long-term effects. This integrative trauma  treatment model borrows from several evidence-based traditions, selecting those  strategies that enhance attunement, attachment, and coregulation between child and  caregiver. MBTM is currently in practice at the Trauma Treatment Center and Research  Facility in Rio Rancho, NM, with youth at risk for negative health outcomes. This  manuscript provides insight regarding the origins, theoretical foundation, and practical  application of MBTM. 

The authors would like to acknowledge the essential contributions of Kate Bunch,  Owner and Clinical Director of the Trauma Treatment Center and Research Facility in  Rio Rancho, NM. Ms. Bunch developed the Mind Body Transformation Model (MBTM) over the course of her clinical practice, and so graciously allowed these authors to  formally introduce this approach to the scholarly world.

68 Stark, Brammer, & Crofts