Many people may endure a traumatic event at some point in their lives.
These situations and their aftermath can be debilitating and potentially life-altering.
This article discusses CPT, its uses, benefits, and what to expect.
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Therapists use CPT to treat trauma and stressor-related disorders.
Safety
People may view the world as relatively safe until they have experiences that show them otherwise.
After a traumatic experience, people, places, or things may feel unsafe.
In CPT, clients learn to identify and challenge these changed beliefs around safety.
Trust
Trust involves a belief in the reliability of others.
Traumatic situations can impact a person’s sense of trust.
For example, a person might feel that everything is out of their control.
Esteem
Self-esteem refers to a person’s thoughts and beliefs about their worth.
Traumatic events can lead to negative thinking about oneself.
For instance, a person might describe themselves as bad or broken as a result of the trauma.
Through CPT, clients begin to identify their changed and distorted beliefs about themselves and their self-esteem.
Techniques
CPT can uncover painful emotions, thoughts, and experiences.
Once the client understands CPT, they will identify thoughts, emotions, and the impact of the trauma.
Examining thinking patterns allows the client to challenge and restructure unhelpful thoughts related to the trauma.
Benefits
Processing and working through trauma can sound overwhelming.
However, there are many benefits to engaging in CPT.
Researchers found that CPT administered in these ways resulted in a significant reduction in PTSD-related symptoms.
Who Shouldn’t Try CPT?
While CPT can be effective in treating PTSD and related disorders, it may not be recommended for everyone.
It’s important to know that CPT can bring up distressing thoughts and emotions.
However, a licensed and trained professional will strive to create a safe therapeutic environment.
you could anticipate attending weekly sessions for approximately 12 weeks.
The work you’re doing will extend beyond the session.
Your therapist may give you writing or homework assignments or ask you to utilize strategies outside of therapy.
The most distressing aspect of CPT can be discussing memories, thoughts, and feelings associated with the trauma.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call911.
Effectiveness
Research demonstrates the effectiveness of CPT.
According to one study, CPT is effective in treating PTSD, with participants seeing lasting benefits.
Alternative Trauma Treatments
Other treatment methods have evidence to support their effectiveness.
It can support people who’ve experienced combat, sexual assault, child abuse, and more.
A Word From Verywell
Traumatic experiences can be life changing.
They can impact how we feel about ourselves and how we navigate the world.
If you’re struggling, know that effective treatment is available to help you feel safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every person and the situation that’s impacted them are unique.
It may take several sessions to begin to experience improvement.
Research shows that CPT is effective at helping people reduce PTSD-related symptoms.
There are five themes related to the impact of trauma that you will likely address in CPT.
These include safety, trust, power and control, esteem, and intimacy.
These aspects of our life often suffer from a traumatic event.
American Psychological Association.Cognitive processing therapy (CPT).
2017;7(6):e014292.
