Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specific type of counseling designed to help you recover from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Rather than just "coping" with symptoms, CPT helps you heal from them.
It is considered a "Gold Standard" treatment by the Veterans Affairs and psychological associations worldwide because it works. It has successfully helped survivors of all types of trauma—including combat, sexual assault, child abuse, accidents, and natural disasters—find relief and peace.
"CPT changed my life." — Former Client
How does it work?
Trauma changes the way we see the world. After a traumatic event, it is common to feel like the world is dangerous, or that you can never be safe again. You might find yourself struggling with five key themes:
Safety: Feeling constantly on guard.
Trust: Struggling to trust others or yourself.
Power and Control: Feeling helpless or needing to control everything.
Esteem: Feeling worthless or damaged.
Intimacy: Difficulty feeling close to others and knowing yourself
CPT helps you look at the story you’ve told yourself about the trauma. We call these "stuck points"—thoughts that keep you trapped in pain, guilt, or fear. By learning how to evaluate these thoughts with new tools, you aren't just managing the trauma; you are processing it so it no longer controls you and your life.
CPT is an active therapy. To get the most out of it, we use weekly practice assignments to give you tools to help you practice your new skills in real life, so you can become your own therapist by the time we finish.
Do I have to tell you exactly what happened?
No. While some clients choose to write or talk about the specific details of their trauma, you do not have to share a detailed re-telling of the event for this therapy to work.
If talking about the details feels too overwhelming, we can focus entirely on how the trauma is affecting your life now. We will work together to decide which approach feels safest and best for you.
Does trauma therapy take years?
Not necessarily. CPT is a short-term, goal-oriented therapy that can be completed within 12 sessions.
Fast Results: Many clients notice significant relief by the 5th session.
Clear Timeline: A typical course of treatment is just 8 to 14 sessions.
For many, this is all the therapy they need to feel better. Others may choose to stay longer to fine-tune their skills, but the goal is to help you feel better, faster.
To learn more about CPT visit: https://cptforptsd.com/