If you’re considering CPT, it helps to know how this therapy works and the techniques used.
Sessions can take place in a group setting, one-on-one, or in a combined group and individual format.
They may be offered in-person or online.
Verywell / Lara Antal
When the two aren’t aligned, issues can result.
They then work to address these errors or stuck points by helping gather evidence for and against those thoughts.
CPT vs.
However, unlike CPT, exposure therapy doesn’t always assist people inaddressingthese errors in thinking.
In CPT, a therapist helps confront feared thoughts and memories associated with a traumatic event.
Psychoeducation
Initial sessions involve education about PTSD and the CPT approach.
They also ask about your symptoms and talk about goals for treatment.
During this phase, you work with your therapist to identify and analyze your stuck points.
To assist with this, you may be asked to write animpact statement.
An impact statement explores your thoughts and beliefs about the trauma.
These accounts will include sensory details that you remember, in addition to your thoughts and feelings.
The therapist goes over common thought patterns that people with PTSD experience and teaches youcognitive coping skills.
They may also ask you to look for evidence for or against your beliefs about your trauma.
You will likely fill out worksheets during this part of treatment, either in therapy or afterward as homework.
CPT may even create positive impacts in areas not specifically targeted during therapy.
CPT can help you learn how to change negative and unhelpful thoughts associated with PTSD and trauma.
Cognitive Processing Therapy Effectiveness
CPT is considered an effective treatment for PTSD.
These positive effects are often visible in clients' written impact statements.
If you’re concerned about how cognitive processing therapy may affect you, talk to your mental health provider.
Ask them any questions you may have and what you’re able to expect during treatment.
They can help determine whether CPT is appropriate for your condition and symptoms.
TheVA’s Office of Mental Health Serviceshas CPT-trained therapists nationwide.
Talk to your VA healthcare provider about incorporating CPT into your PTSD treatment plan.
Once you begin treatment, your therapist will explain their process and let you know what to expect.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services.
