TBRI® on the Inside
Healing from the Inside Out
TBRI® On The Inside is a 14-week trauma-responsive curriculum designed specifically for incarcerated adults. Built in collaboration with the Karyn Purvis Institute at Texas Christian University and Volunteers for Youth Justice, the program adapts Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®)—a model originally developed for children from hard places—for use within adult correctional settings.
The curriculum addresses the relational, neurological, and behavioral impacts of trauma while helping participants build trust, manage emotions, develop healthy relationships, and reframe their identity around dignity and worth.
Each session includes:
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Simple neuroscience education to increase self-awareness and emotional regulation
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Skill-building activities focused on connection, correction, and empowerment
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Guided group discussions to process personal history, shame, triggers, and healing
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Self-reflection journal prompts to support lasting inner change
Optional pre-release and post-release mentorship pathways are offered for continuity of care. All materials are written at a 6th-grade reading level and designed to be culturally responsive and accessible.
Delivery Format: In-facility cohorts with trained facilitators, hybrid staff/volunteer-led models, and virtual options where applicable.
Outcomes Tracked: Trust-building, emotional regulation, trauma awareness, and reduction in institutional behavior incidents.