Trauma Therapy

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a short-term, evidence-based therapy that helps you overcome PTSD and related conditions. It focuses on examining and changing unhelpful thoughts and feelings related to traumatic events.

Treating Trauma

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) looks at the impact a traumatic event has had on one’s life and helps examine and change unhelpful thoughts and feelings related to the event, one’s self, others, and the world. An important part of treatment is addressing ways of thinking that might keep an individual “stuck” and get in the way of recovery from symptoms of PTSD and other problems. CPT is effective in treating PTSD across a variety of populations and types of trauma. CPT has worked well for individuals who have experienced combat, sexual, or childhood trauma, as well as other types of traumatic events.

Benefits of CPT

Reflect: Improve your understanding of PTSD and its impact on your thoughts and emotions.
Redefine: Learn skills to challenge distorted thinking and develop healthier perspectives.
Recover: Reduce distress related to traumatic memories, improve daily living, and rebuild confidence.

How does CPT work?

Over approximately 12 therapy sessions held weekly or twice weekly:

You will learn to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts through structured therapy sessions and take-home practice assignments.
You will be asked to write about the impact of your traumatic experience(s).
You may choose to write the story of your traumatic event(s).
You will be asked to complete regular take-home practice assignments to apply what you are learning in therapy.
You will learn skills to help you evaluate the evidence for your beliefs and consider alternative conclusions.

What will be expected of me?

You will be asked to complete take-home practice assignments that help identify thoughts and patterns of thinking that might be keeping you stuck in your PTSD. You will be asked to write about the impact of your trauma. You will be given the choice to write the story of your trauma to understand how it has affected your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. During CPT, you will learn to examine the evidence supporting what you have been telling yourself about the trauma, yourself and the world.

Will I be able to handle CPT?

Many who have this initial concern are able to successfully complete this treatment and enjoy significant improvements. While it may be scary to focus on the thoughts and feelings related to your trauma, it is important to remember it is a memory and that it is not happening now. You are encouraged to discuss any concerns with your therapist.

Can I participate in CPT if I have PTSD and a substance abuse problem?

Substance use and PTSD can be closely connected. Therefore, treating your PTSD may be an important part of your substance abuse treatment, even early in the recovery process. Please talk to your therapist about any substance abuse concerns and whether CPT may be a good fit for your treatment needs.

For More Information

Take the first step towards transformation

Don’t let emotional disorders dictate your happiness any longer – take charge of your well-being today.