Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
A proven, structured approach to healing from trauma and PTSD. 12 sessions that can change everything.
What is Cognitive Processing Therapy?
Cognitive Processing Therapy, or CPT, is one of the most extensively researched treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Developed in the late 1980s, it has been proven effective for trauma related to abuse, combat, sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters, and other life-altering events.
CPT works by helping you understand how your trauma has changed the way you think about yourself, other people, and the world. These changed beliefs, called “stuck points,” are the thoughts that keep you trapped in cycles of guilt, shame, fear, or numbness. Thoughts like “it was my fault,” “I cannot trust anyone,” or “the world is never safe” are common examples.
Through 12 structured sessions, you will learn to identify your stuck points, examine whether they are accurate, and develop more balanced beliefs that allow you to move forward. You will use worksheets and guided exercises both in session and at home to practise these skills.
CPT is not about forgetting what happened or pretending it did not matter. It is about changing your relationship to the memory so it no longer controls your daily life.
Why CPT works
The evidence behind CPT is extensive. It is recommended as a first-line treatment for PTSD by the American Psychological Association, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense. Research shows that the majority of people who complete CPT experience significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, and those improvements tend to last.
CPT is structured and time-limited, which many people find reassuring. You know what to expect from each session, you have clear goals, and you can measure your progress along the way.
Is CPT right for you?
CPT may be a good fit if you have experienced a traumatic event and are dealing with symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, guilt, shame, or avoidance of things that remind you of the trauma. It works well for people who appreciate a structured, practical approach and are willing to engage with between-session exercises.
If you are unsure whether CPT is the right approach, I am happy to discuss your options during a free phone consultation. I also offer other trauma-informed approaches including CBT and mindfulness-based therapy.