Therapeutic Couples Intervention (TCI) Kit (TCI Kit)

Couples face formidable challenges when one partner has been affected by traumatic brain injury. However, until recently there were no evidenced-based programs designed to specifically address declines in marital quality associated with TBI. Fortunately, the Therapeutic Couples Intervention (TCI) Kit, now available through the NRC, fills this gap in resources.

Informed by more than 20-years of clinical experience, the TCI provides clinicians with a manualized couples’ therapy program based on psychoeducation, skill building, and psychological support. The protocol is organized around five, 90 to 120 minute therapeutic sessions targeting core relationship topics. A sixth optional session addresses parenting challenges for couples with children.

Session topics help couples to:

• Better understand the effects of the injury on their relationship
• Improve communication and stress management skills
• Set reasonable goals and solve problems better
• Rebuild emotional and physical intimacy
• Focus on gains and formulating a plan for moving forward
• Identify and develop plans for overcoming new parenting challenges (optional)

The Therapeutic Couples Intervention Kit contains the following materials:

• An intervention manual containing: treatment rationale and development, step-by-step intervention implementation instructions, and real-time tools to measure in-session efficacy.
• Worksheets and self-assessments used for supporting in-session and between-session discussions and reflection.
• An emailed copy of a MP3 audio file to facilitate stress-reduction exercises.

Important note: The TCI is designed specifically for use by clinicians and other professionals who are licensed or otherwise specifically qualified and trained in providing marriage and couples therapy. For more information about the Therapeutic Couples Intervention, go to tbi.vcu.edu/interventions/TCI.