Cognitive Processing Therapy
What is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can disrupt daily life in profound ways and the emotional weight of past events can often feel overwhelming and unmanageable. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) has emerged as one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for managing and reducing PTSD symptoms. This structured and time-limited approach focuses on helping individuals reframe and challenge distressing beliefs related to their trauma.
What Is CPT and How Does It Help?
CPT is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) developed by Dr. Patricia Resick. It was initially designed to help survivors of sexual trauma but has since been widely used for various types of trauma, including combat-related PTSD, accidents, and losses.
The therapy focuses on understanding how traumatic events can change thoughts about oneself, others, and the world. Many people who go through trauma develop “stuck points” — rigid or negative beliefs that make recovery difficult. CPT helps clients identify and reframe these thoughts, creating space for healing and personal growth.
What Does CPT Involve?
CPT typically involves 12 sessions and includes the following components:
Education: Clients learn how trauma affects thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Impact Statements: Clients write about how their trauma has shaped their beliefs and emotions, providing insight into the areas needing healing.
Identifying and Challenging “Stuck Points”: With the therapist's guidance, clients learn to identify thoughts that keep them emotionally trapped or intensify feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame.
Cognitive Restructuring: Clients develop healthier, more balanced ways of thinking about their experiences.
Why Is CPT Effective?
CPT is well-supported by research:
Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Asmundson et al., 2018)
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (n.d.) has adopted CPT as a frontline treatment for veterans due to its consistent positive outcomes.
Research shows that CPT works just as well when delivered via telehealth, making it accessible to more people.
What makes CPT particularly unique is its focus on shifting beliefs that perpetuate pain. For instance, someone who survived a traumatic event might blame themselves for what happened. CPT helps them reframe that belief, replacing it with a more compassionate and accurate perspective.
Who Can Benefit from CPT?
CPT is effective for a wide range of individuals, including:
• Military veterans
• Survivors of sexual assault
• Victims of accidents or natural disasters
• People experiencing traumatic grief or interpersonal trauma
Final Thoughts
Importantly, CPT doesn’t erase the memory of trauma—it helps individuals reshape how they relate to it. The trauma no longer defines their story; it becomes a chapter, not the whole book.
Healing from trauma takes time, courage, and support. Cognitive Processing Therapy offers a proven, compassionate pathway to recovery for those struggling with PTSD. If you’re dealing with the effects of trauma, consider seeking a therapist trained in CPT to help you navigate your journey toward healing and growth.
References
Asmundson, G. J. G., Thorisdottir, A. S., Roden-Foreman, J. W., Baird, S. O., Witcraft, S. M., Stein, A. T., … Powers, M. B. (2018). A meta-analytic review of cognitive processing therapy for adults with posttraumatic stress disorder. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, 48(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/16506073.2018.1522371
Resick, P. A., Monson, C. M., & Chard, K. M. (2017). Cognitive processing therapy for PTSD: A comprehensive manual. The Guilford Press.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD. VA Mental Health. Retrieved February 13, 2025, fromhttps://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/cbt-ptsd.asp
