Traumatic experiences can profoundly impact our emotions and how we view ourselves, others, and the world around us. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or other symptoms of trauma, know that there are ways to heal through therapy. One effective technique is cognitive processing therapy (CPT), an evidence-based approach that helps individuals process their past and move toward a brighter future. Riverside Psychology offers cognitive processing therapy in Westchester County, New York, to support you on your path to recovery.
Understanding CPT
Cognitive processing therapy is a specialized type of counseling that helps individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions navigate complex emotions. CPT empowers clients to process their experiences to reduce emotional distress and regain a sense of peace.
Traumatic events can distort thinking, leading to distrust, self-blame, and anxiety. Based on social cognitive theory, the cognitive aspect of CPT explores how past experiences shape our emotions, beliefs, and behaviors. CPT helps individuals identify and reframe these unhelpful thought patterns to gain a more balanced perspective.
In addition, individuals with PTSD may suppress or avoid reminders of their trauma, but this can prevent recovery. The processing aspect of CPT is rooted in emotional processing theory and addresses avoidance, gently guiding individuals toward facing and understanding their emotions in a safe environment.
What To Expect in CPT Sessions
Cognitive processing therapy is a structured, collaborative method that adapts cognitive-behavioral techniques to trauma recovery. During a CPT session, clients work on restoring feelings of safety, security, and trust, rebuilding self-worth and self-compassion, and finding balance.
CPT focuses on the following:
- Identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs
- Addressing PTSD symptoms like guilt and shame
- Psychoeducation on how trauma affects thoughts and emotions
- Developing strategies to improve emotional regulation
Extensive research supports CPT as a long-term solution for PTSD and trauma-related distress. By fostering new ways of thinking and addressing emotional pain, CPT helps individuals restore inner peace and move forward confidently.
Start Your Path to Recovery
You don’t have to navigate trauma alone. The experienced therapists at Riverside Psychology can guide you with cognitive processing therapy in Westchester County, NY. Please consider reaching out today for a free consultation.