What is CPT?
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a short-term, evidence-based therapy for people with PTSD or trauma-related distress. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts that are often linked to their trauma, such as feelings of guilt, shame, or fear. CPT teaches new ways to think about trauma, reduce emotional distress, and improve daily functioning. This therapy is goal-oriented and structured, helping individuals process their trauma and gain a sense of control and healing.
What is the week-by-week process of CPT?
CPT follows a structured, time-limited, and goal-oriented process, with extensive research demonstrating that PTSD symptoms can resolve quickly with effective therapy that addresses the core beliefs underlying the Traumatic event.
Introduction & Assessment
Understanding trauma history and treatment goals.
Education about PTSD
Learning how trauma affects thoughts and emotions.
Identifying Negative Thoughts
Recognizing unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma.
Challenging Unhelpful Thoughts
Replacing negative beliefs with more balanced perspectives.
Cognitive Restructuring
Changing how you view yourself and the trauma.
Consolidation & Closure
Reviewing progress and planning for future challenges.
Social Support
Strengthening relationships and seeking healthy connections.
Coping Strategies
Developing tools to manage stress and triggers.
Is CPT the right therapy option for me?
If you’ve experienced trauma and find that negative thoughts or feelings are interfering with your life, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) could be a helpful option. It’s designed to help you understand and change unhelpful thoughts related to trauma, such as feeling guilty or hopeless. If your PTSD is impacting your mood, relationships, or daily functioning, CPT offers a structured way to break the cycle of negative thinking and build healthier perspectives. By focusing on the connections between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, CPT helps you regain control over your reactions and move forward with confidence.