Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
A structured, trauma-focused protocol that works with the beliefs and meaning-making that keep trauma-related distress in place.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), developed by Patricia Resick, is a structured, protocol-based treatment for PTSD that focuses on "stuck points," the beliefs about safety, trust, control, self-worth, or intimacy that trauma can distort or entrench. Rather than repeatedly recounting the traumatic event in detail, CPT centers on examining and challenging these stuck-point beliefs through structured worksheets and guided questioning. It's typically delivered over about 12 structured sessions and is one of the most researched treatments for PTSD, widely used within VA and military mental health systems as well as in general clinical practice.
A structured trauma protocol focused on the beliefs trauma leaves behind.
What to expect: CPT follows a structured protocol, typically around 12 sessions, involving worksheets that help identify and challenge specific stuck-point beliefs connected to the trauma. Some versions include a written trauma account, though this isn't the central focus, and CPT can be delivered without it. Expect homework between sessions and a clear, trackable structure throughout.
Good fit for: You want a structured, time-limited treatment with a defined endpoint, You notice specific unhelpful beliefs about safety, trust, or self-worth connected to your trauma, You're willing to do worksheets and homework between sessions
Explore for: PTSD or trauma-related distress connected to specific unhelpful beliefs (about safety, trust, or self-worth), Wanting a structured, time-limited protocol with a clear endpoint, A preference for working with beliefs and meaning rather than repeated narrative retelling, Trauma-related shame or self-blame that feels stuck
Not the right fit if: You want an open-ended, unstructured approach to processing trauma, You're not ready to engage directly with trauma-related material yet
How to choose a practitioner: Confirm formal CPT training, this is a specific, manualized protocol requiring dedicated training, not general trauma experience Ask whether they include the written trauma account version or the version without it, and which they'd recommend for you Clarify session structure and expected length of treatment
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