TBRI® On The Inside
Healing from the Inside Out
TBRI® On The Inside is a 16-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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.