Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

What is Cognitive Processing Therapy?

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a psychotherapy that was designed to focus on the connections between the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and bodily sensations related to a traumatic event. It provides an understanding of why the traumatic event is difficult to cope with and how symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect an individual's daily life.

How does CPT work?

Trauma can change the way an individual views themself and the world. There may be feelings of “I’m responsible for what happened” or “the world is not a safe place”. These kinds of thoughts can keep someone stuck in their trauma and prevent them from fully recovering from symptoms of PTSD. CPT aims to identify these negative feelings, challenge the thoughts behind them and teach cognitive coping skills so that an individual can take a new perspective when appropriate.

How Long is Treatment?

CPT typically involves weekly, 60 minute sessions, for 12 weeks. This can vary based on the individual's specific needs.

Who Could Benefit from CPT?

An individual who has experienced any form of trauma and has the following symptoms:

  • Anger
  • Anxiety
  • Cognitive Distortions
  • Depression
  • Dissociation
  • Guilt
  • Hopelessness
  • Sleep Disturbances
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