Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI)

At Texas Girls & Boys Ranch, we believe healing begins with safe relationships, consistent care, and a deep understanding of how trauma impacts a child’s development. That’s why we incorporate Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) into the way we care for children and families across our programs.

Originally developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross through the TCU Institute of Child Development, TBRI® is a trauma-informed approach designed to help children who have experienced difficult life circumstances, including abuse, neglect, instability, abandonment, or multiple placements. Rather than focusing only on behavior, TBRI® seeks to understand the “why” behind a child’s actions and respond with connection, compassion, and structure.

For many children who come to Texas Girls & Boys Ranch, traditional discipline methods alone are not enough. TBRI® helps create an environment where children can feel physically and emotionally safe while learning healthy coping skills, emotional regulation, and trust in relationships.

A Relationship-Centered Approach to Healing

Children who have experienced trauma often struggle with trust, emotional regulation, attachment, and feelings of safety. TBRI® is built around the understanding that behavior is often connected to unmet needs, past experiences, or survival responses developed during times of stress or instability.

Through this approach, caregivers, staff members, educators, and support teams work together to create an atmosphere that promotes healing, growth, and long-term resilience. The goal is not simply to manage behaviors, but to help children develop the tools and relationships needed to thrive.

At Texas Girls & Boys Ranch, TBRI® supports our mission of providing hope, healing, and restoration for children and families across Texas.

The Three Core Principles of TBRI®

Connecting

Connection is the foundation of TBRI®. Healthy relationships help children feel secure, valued, and understood. Staff and caregivers intentionally build trust through consistent communication, empathy, and positive interactions that strengthen attachment and emotional safety.

Empowering

Children cannot regulate emotions or behaviors effectively when their physical or emotional needs are unmet. Empowering principles focus on supporting a child’s overall well-being through healthy routines, nutrition, hydration, rest, sensory support, and emotional awareness.

Correcting

Correcting principles help children learn appropriate behaviors and self-regulation skills in a supportive and respectful way. Rather than relying on fear or punishment, TBRI® emphasizes teaching, guidance, and consistent responses that preserve the child’s dignity while helping them make healthier choices.

A Trauma-Informed Model for Lasting Change

Children from difficult backgrounds often carry invisible wounds that impact how they interact with the world around them. TBRI® recognizes that healing happens best in environments built on trust, connection, and understanding.

This model has been successfully implemented in homes, schools, foster care settings, residential programs, and child welfare organizations across the country. At Texas Girls & Boys Ranch, it serves as an important part of our commitment to helping children experience lasting transformation and hope for the future.

Why TBRI® Matters

Trauma can affect a child’s brain development, emotional responses, and ability to form healthy relationships. Without proper support, these challenges can continue into adulthood. TBRI® helps interrupt that cycle by addressing the root causes behind behaviors and creating opportunities for healing.

By focusing on connection before correction, children are better able to:

• Feel safe and secure
• Develop trust in caregivers and mentors
• Improve emotional regulation
• Build healthy social relationships
• Gain confidence and resilience
• Experience healthier long-term outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions About TBRI®

What does TBRI® stand for?

TBRI® stands for Trust-Based Relational Intervention®. It is a trauma-informed model designed to help children who have experienced adversity, trauma, abuse, neglect, or instability.

Who benefits from TBRI®?

TBRI® can benefit children and youth of all ages, especially those who have experienced difficult life circumstances or trauma. It also equips caregivers, teachers, counselors, and staff members with tools to better support children’s emotional and behavioral needs.

Is TBRI® only for residential programs?

No. TBRI® can be used in many different settings, including homes, schools, foster care programs, counseling environments, churches, and residential care organizations.

How is TBRI® different from traditional discipline methods?

Traditional discipline models often focus primarily on correcting behavior. TBRI® looks deeper by understanding how trauma impacts development and behavior. The approach prioritizes relationship-building, emotional safety, and skill development alongside behavioral guidance.

Why does Texas Girls & Boys Ranch use TBRI®?

Texas Girls & Boys Ranch is committed to providing trauma-informed care that supports healing and long-term success. TBRI® aligns with our mission by helping children feel safe, connected, valued, and supported while equipping caregivers with effective, compassionate strategies.

Where can I learn more about TBRI®?

Additional information about Trust-Based Relational Intervention® can be found through the TCU Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, which offers research, educational resources, and training related to TBRI®.