What is Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD?

What is CPT?

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)  is a cognitive behavioral therapy developed for survivors of trauma suffering with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is endorsed by the Departments of Veterans Affairs and the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies, as a "best practice" treatment for PTSD. CPT has been shown to help survivors of traumatic events, which includes child abuse, combat, rape, medical events, and natural disasters. 

How does it work?

CPT guides individuals with PTSD to examine how trauma has impacted the way they think about themselves and the world around them, focusing on five themes: trust, safety, power and control, esteem, and intimacy.  By learning about the influence of thoughts, individuals are able to recognize the difference between "natural emotions" and "manufactured emotions." This acts as a catalyst to rewire the brain's original response to the traumatic event, producing new neural networks (the way your brain cells organize themselves). In other words, CPT changes the way your brain experiences and processes the trauma, which translates to you feeling better. In the words of a former client, "CPT changed my life." 

CPT involves weekly assignments to help maximize the benefits and effectiveness of treatment. Clients do not need to share a detailed re-telling of the traumatic event in order for the therapy to be effective, but some may choose this option, depending on the nature and circumstances of the trauma. We will work together to decide on a treatment course that is right for you. 

Doesn't trauma therapy take years?

CPT is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD, with many people showing significant symptom improvement by the 5th session! A typical course of traditional CPT is 8 to 14 sessions. For some clients, this is all the therapy they need to feel better. However, others find additional benefit from maintenance therapy to fine tune their newly learned skills. If you decided to try CPT, we will work together to come up with a plan that is right for you.