What Should You Expect From CPT Therapy?
The therapy world is full of different types of therapies and acronyms describing those therapies. CBT, EMDR, and CPT are just a few of the many different therapy options. If you’re not familiar with or are new to therapy, it can seem very overwhelming.
Deciding to go to therapy in the first place is a big first step. You took the time to acknowledge and admit to yourself that you need extra help and support. You should be extremely proud of yourself
But now that you’ve made the decision to go, you’re not really sure where to start. There are countless amount of therapists and therapy types. How are you supposed to decide which therapy or therapist is right for you?
Let’s start by diving into a therapy approach called CPT therapy. Let’s learn more about what CPT therapy is and what you should expect from it.
What Is CPT Therapy?
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a type of Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CPT can help individuals learn how to challenge and change any negative beliefs they may be experiencing due to a past trauma. A lot of people who experienced a past trauma can often feel stuck. They can become consumed by thoughts and feelings related to the trauma, and it can become even harder to cope with and overcome it.
How Effective Is CPT Therapy?
CPT therapy has been shown to be extremely effective in reducing the signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Childhood abuse, combat, natural disasters, and sexual violence are just a few of the common traumatic events that CPT therapy has been used to treat. These are some of the most well-known signs and symptoms that have seen improvement with the help of CPT therapy:
Anger
Anxiety
Depression
Dissociation
Guilt
Hopelessness
Psychological distress
Sleeping problems
How Does CPT Therapy Work?
Cognitive processing therapy is a very structured therapy approach. CPT consists of 12 weekly sessions with each session being about an hour in length. CPT can work in various ways. You can work with a therapist in a one-on-one setting, a group setting, or in a combined individual and group setting. CPT therapy is divided into different components:
Psychoeducation
As with any other type of therapy approach, one of the first steps in CPT therapy is speaking with your therapist about your symptoms and overall goals of treatment.
Acknowledge Your Thoughts and Feelings
The next step in the CPT process is to start the process of becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings, especially in relation to your trauma. A therapist will be able to help you identify, acknowledge, and work through the negative thoughts and feelings you may be carrying.
Learning Coping Mechanisms
Once you're able to recognize your thoughts and feelings, you'll be in a better spot to start changing how you feel about your trauma. Your therapist will be able to help give you coping mechanisms and techniques in order to start changing your perspective relating to your trauma.
Changing Your Beliefs
The last step is changing your beliefs. Your therapist will make sure that you feel good in all of the different areas of your life: esteem, intimacy, control, safety, and trust.
What to Expect with CPT Therapy
These are just a few of the many areas that clients have seen improvements in their lives with the help of CPT therapy:
Happiness
Intimacy
Relationships
Safety
Security
Self-esteem
Sense of control
Trust
Processing negative emotions
Next Steps
We can help determine if CPT therapy is right for you and your goals. Reach out to us today to learn more about cognitive processing treatment.
