What is CPT?

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an effective therapy to decrease trauma symptoms. It teaches you to change unhelpful and upsetting thoughts about the trauma. CPT is an evidence based therapy, meaning it’s been trail and tested and proven to be one of the most effective treatments for PTSD. It is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association and Veterans Association as a frontline treatment for PTSD and trauma.

How does CPT work?

In CPT sessions we look at your thoughts and what you are telling yourself about the trauma. You might believe “It is my fault, I should have done something differently” or “I am disgusting”. These conclusions create feelings of shame and guilt which can affect your job, relationships and intimacy. Some of these conclusions might not be true and by logically examining these thoughts, we challenge the untrue ones and explore alternative ways of thinking.

What can I expect?

CPT consists of 12 to 24 therapy sessions. Sessions are usually scheduled weekly but can also be scheduled twice a week. Each session lasts 50-60 minutes.

After each session, you will be given a practice assignment to complete daily. These assignments take about 5 minutes. The success of the therapy depends on your level of commitment to the practice assignments and coming to sessions. During the sessions, you and your therapist will discuss the practice assignments and explore unhelpful thinking patterns.

CPT does not involve repeatedly reviewing the details of the trauma, but you will be asked to review how the trauma has affected your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CPT helps to reduce trauma-related symptoms as well as anxiety and depression.

CPT Resources

Click here to access the CPT worksheets and other resources. This site is password protected and freely available to our clients. Contact us for more information.