Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based therapy approach. Learn more about CPT Therapy and if it might be a good fit for you.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based therapy approach. Learn more about CPT Therapy and if it might be a good fit for you.

What is CPT?

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) specifically designed to help people recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related difficulties. CPT helps you understand how trauma has impacted your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions—and empowers you to shift unhelpful patterns that are keeping you stuck.

CPT is a structured, time-limited therapy, usually completed in about 12 sessions, that guides you through identifying and challenging beliefs that may have developed as a result of trauma, such as “It was my fault,” or “I can’t trust anyone.” These thoughts can feel true, but often they are rooted in trauma rather than reality. CPT helps you process them in a supportive and nonjudgmental way.

What is CPT Journey to a Trauma Informed Life

How Does CPT Help?

After trauma, it's common to struggle with self-blame, guilt, shame, or a sense that the world is no longer safe. These thoughts can affect how you see yourself, others, and your future—and they can show up in the form of anxiety, depression, anger, or emotional numbness.

CPT Helps By:

  • Identifying "stuck points," or thoughts and beliefs that are keeping you from healing.
  • Teaching practical tools to evaluate and shift unhelpful thinking.
  • Empowering you to regain a sense of control and self-trust.
  • Reducing trauma-related symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, or hypervigilance.

Individual Therapy FAQs

Therapy, also called counseling or psychotherapy, is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. The goal is to improve your emotional well-being, develop healthier coping skills, and create meaningful change in your life.

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, stress, or simply to better understand themselves. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just curious about personal growth, therapy can help.

In a typical session, you’ll talk with your therapist in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Sessions may include exploring current challenges, learning new coping strategies, working through past experiences, or setting goals. Your therapist will guide the process, but you’re always in control of what you choose to share.

The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, the type of therapy used, and your unique situation. Some people feel better in just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. You and your therapist will regularly check in on your progress and adjust as needed.

Yes. What you share in therapy is kept private, with a few legal exceptions (such as if someone is in immediate danger or in cases of abuse). Your therapist will review confidentiality with you during your first session so you know exactly what to expect.

We offer both in-person and telehealth (online) sessions, depending on your preference and availability. Teletherapy is a convenient and secure way to access support from the comfort of your home.

Connect with Journey

Begin your healing process with the help of our services and resources at Journey to a Trauma Informed Life.

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