"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."
-Viktor Frankl
Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a highly structured, evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) designed to help individuals process and recover from trauma, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The primary focus of CPT is on how trauma impacts a person’s thoughts and beliefs, especially those that become distorted or unhelpful over time. These cognitive distortions, called "stuck points," can reinforce negative thinking patterns that prevent a person from healing fully. CPT will help you identify, challenge, and replace these distorted beliefs with more balanced, realistic ones.
CPT also deals with how trauma impacts important aspects of life such as safety, trust, power, control, self-esteem, and intimacy. Trauma can cause individuals to develop negative beliefs about these areas, affecting their self-perception and their outlook on the world. In CPT therapy, we will address these beliefs, examine how they were shaped by trauma, and strive to transform them into more positive beliefs.
When it comes to CPT, the emphasis is placed on both cognitive restructuring and emotional processing. CPT focuses on helping you connect with emotions you may have suppressed or struggled to process due to your trauma. By addressing both thoughts and emotions, CPT offers a comprehensive approach that allows you to gain greater emotional clarity and discover healthier ways to manage trauma-related emotions.
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After an initial consultation and we have decided together that you are a good fit for CPT therapy, we'll work together to understand how your thoughts about the trauma may be affecting your feelings and behaviors. Sessions involve writing exercises (such as a trauma narrative) and learning strategies to challenge and change negative beliefs related to your experience.
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Yes, CPT can be done virtually. Virtual CPT sessions are just as effective as in-person sessions and offer flexibility for clients who may prefer or require remote access to therapy. During virtual CPT, you'll still engage in the same structured sessions, complete writing assignments, and work on challenging negative thought patterns, all through a secure, HIPPA compliant online platform.
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While CPT is primarily used for trauma survivors and those with PTSD, it can also be beneficial for individuals suffering from negative thought patterns that developed due to relational trauma.
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CPT typically lasts about 12 sessions, but the exact length can vary depending on the individual's progress and specific needs.
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CPT focuses specifically on changing negative thinking patterns related to trauma. CPT concentrates on how your thoughts about the trauma influence your emotions and behaviors.
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Of course! I'm happy to provide CPT services, and you can still work with your therapist to process the session. If you want me to communicate with your current provider, all you need to do is complete a Release of Information (ROI) form.
Additionally, you can take a break from talk therapy while you go through CPT, or choose an 80-minute session if we keep running short on time.