About CPT

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specialized cognitive behavioral therapy designed to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and conditions related to trauma. PTSD symptoms can develop after an individual has experienced a traumatic event such as physical or sexual abuse or assault, rape, accidents, natural disaster, threats, military combat, or witnessing violence or death. CPT is an evidence-based therapy which means that rigorous scientific research has proven it to be highly effective for reducing trauma-related symptoms.

 

CPT has been shown to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms related to a variety of traumatic events. It is endorsed by the U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, as well as the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies, as a best practice for the treatment of PTSD.

​

What Happens in CPT?

CPT is a short-term therapy designed explicitly to treat the symptoms of PTSD. It typically lasts for 12 therapy sessions (50 minutes each). The treatment focuses on the connections between thoughts, feelings, behavior, and bodily sensations. The work of CPT helps patients to understand and modify the thoughts and beliefs that are keeping them "stuck" in symptoms of PTSD and other problems.

​

Goals of CPT

• Decrease distress about memories of the trauma

• Reduce depression, anxiety, guilt, or shame

• Decrease emotional numbing (the difficulty of feeling feelings) and the avoidance of trauma reminders

• Reduce feelings of being tense or always being "on guard"

• Improve day-to-day living

​

​