Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specific type of cognitive behavioral therapy designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related mental health conditions. It aims to help individuals process traumatic events by identifying and modifying unhelpful thoughts and beliefs associated with the trauma.
CPT is primarily used to treat PTSD resulting from various traumatic experiences, including combat exposure, sexual assault, natural disasters, child abuse, or other traumatic events. Journalists may come across CPT when reporting on effective trauma treatments or mental health best practices.
With the rise of remote healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, CPT has been adapted for delivery via telehealth platforms. This allows for broader access to trauma-focused treatment, particularly for individuals in rural areas or those unable to attend in-person sessions.
Given its effectiveness in treating combat-related PTSD, CPT is frequently used in military and veterans’ mental health services. Journalists reporting on these topics may come across CPT in this context.