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.