Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specialized therapy based on cognitive behavioral theory and is designed for adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). CPT is typically completed over 12 sessions and involves weekly written assignments to help practice the skills learned in session. Many people find these skills to be helpful in not only coping with their trauma but other difficulties as well. In CPT, patients process the trauma and reduce trauma-related reactions by exploring their beliefs around why the trauma occurred and its impact on them and those around them.
CPT helps individuals:
- Reduce distressing feelings related to trauma, such as feeling on edge, anxious, guilty, numb, or depressed
- Explore beliefs related to safety, trust, power and control, intimacy, and esteem
- Identify beliefs that are helpful and realistic
- Build skills to help challenge the unhelpful and unrealistic thoughts that may be contributing to distress
- Improve one’s functioning and day to day living