Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) was designed in 1988 by C. Resnik. It is effective in reducing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder that develop after experiencing a variety of traumatic events including child abuse, combat, rape and natural disasters. It is one of the primary evidenced-based interventions for PTSD.
CPT was designed to be implemented over 12 sessions, although it can take longer depending on the individual. It is a manualized intervention, so there are some “assignments” and components that aid the client in conceptualizing the traumatic event. Clients are then taught how to challenge and modify unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. Eventually, the patient creates a new understanding of the traumatic event so that it reduces its ongoing negative effects on current life and that activation diminishes.
