Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based, weekly treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that helps adult persons recognize how trauma has changed their view about themselves, others, and the world. Most people who complete CPT show a noticeable improvement in PTSD symptoms.
CPT can be used for caregivers who have experience their own trauma or are experiencing secondary trauma from reliving what has happened to their child.
CPT has Four Main Parts:
Education about PTSD and CPT
Processing the impact of the trauma
Learning to challenge thoughts about the trauma
Addressing trauma-related themes
Does CPT work with multiple traumas?
Yes. CPT is very effective for individuals who have experienced multiple traumas. In the beginning of treatment you will focus on the traumatic experience that troubles you the most. Then, the focus can shift to other traumas as needed.
Examples of traumatic events include:
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Sexual assault
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Domestic violence
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Traumatic grief
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Trauma that occurred in childhood
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Vicarious trauma