Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy and has been proven effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the lasting impacts from experiencing a traumatic event.
CPT is especially helpful if you feel stuck in the aftermath of trauma. whether that means intrusive memories, strong emotional reactions, or ongoing patterns of guilts, shame, or blame. With CPT you can begin to shift the way you understand the event and reclaim a sense of safety, trust, and control in your life.
How CPT Works
CPT is a manualized treatment, meaning it follows a structured approach. Typically, CPT is delivered in 12 sessions, with each step building on the last to guide you through the healing process. During sessions, your therapist will help you:
Identify unhelpful or stuck beliefs related to your trauma
Learn strategies to challenge and modify these beliefs
Develop new ways of making sense of the event so it has less power over your life
This process not only helps reduce symptoms of PTSD, but also fosters resilience, clarity, and a greater sense of peace.
Areas of Focus in CPT
Trauma often disrupts the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. CPT addresses these disruptions by focusing on six specific areas:
Blame: Untangling feelings of blame you place on yourself or others for what happened
Safety: Restoring a sense of security in your daily life
Trust: Rebuilding trust in yourself and others
Power and Control: Regaining confidence in your ability to make choices and influences your life
Esteem: Reconnecting with your self-worth and personal strengths
Intimacy: Repairing and strengthening meaningful relationships
Together with your therapist, you will gain new perspectives and begin to reduce the negative grip trauma can have on your life and overall wellbeing.
Is CPT right for you?
CPT may be a good fit if you:
Struggle with symptoms of PTSD
Feel weighed down by guilt, shame, or self-blame
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Many clients find CPT to be a turning point in their healing journey, offering both relief from symptoms and new tools for moving forward.
Want a structured, evidence based therapy with clear steps and goals
Notice trauma has impacted your relationships, sense of safety, or trust in others
Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence. Peter A. Levine
Meet our CPT Trained Therapists
Cognitive Processing Therapy is offered in Oakville, Georgetown, and Virtually for anyone residing in Ontario.
Healing from trauma takes courage, and CPT offers a clear, guided path forward. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our trained therapists. Together, we can explore whether CPT is the right approach for your needs.
Book a free 15 minute consultation today!
Cognitive Processing Therapy is Available in Oakville, Georgetown & virtual
Contact us if you have any questions about DBT before starting. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the therapist who will be the right fit for you.
If you feel you're ready to get started, please book a free 15 minute consultation with one of our therapists.
PS. The free consultation doesn't obligate you to work with us!
