Cognitive Processing Therapy is a science-based therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

What is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)?

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based treatment designed to help individuals process and reframe distressing thoughts related to trauma. The focus is on identifying and challenging unhelpful and inaccurate beliefs that have formed as a result of the trauma, such as self-blame or mistrust. By working through structured exercises, clients learn to evaluate these thoughts and replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives, ultimately reducing the emotional impact of the trauma and improving daily functioning. CPT is particularly effective in treating PTSD and trauma-related symptoms, fostering long-term emotional resilience.

How do I know if CPT is a good fit for me?

CPT may be a good fit for you If you have been diagnosed with PTSD or if you’ve ever experienced a trauma in the past that is still bothering you. You might find that you think about the trauma when you don’t want to, feel more on edge, and have strong emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the trauma. You may do everything to avoid thinking about the trauma, including things that may not be healthy for you. You might feel angry, bad about yourself, and suspicious of others and the world. You likely want these feelings to change so you can live a more peaceful life.

What do I do in CPT?

In CPT, you don’t have to share the details of the traumatic event. Instead, we focus on how the event has changed how you think about yourself, others, and the world. CPT helps people identify “stuck points,” or unhelpful thoughts that keep people feeling stuck in PTSD, and challenge how realistic these thoughts are. CPT also focuses on helping people experience the natural emotions that stem from the trauma, like sadness, anger or fear, and reduce emotions that come from unhelpful thoughts, like guilt and shame. You will learn helpful skills for challenging stuck points and slowly allowing yourself to feel the natural emotions.

How is group CPT different from individual CPT?

You will be sharing what you learn throughout the therapy with other group members. Again, this does not involve sharing details of the trauma. This involves sharing how the trauma has affected you and how you are using the skills you learn in therapy.