Cognitive Processing Therapy in Brooklyn, NY
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specialized treatment method designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. At Brooklyn Center for Psychotherapy, we offer CPT to support those struggling with the lasting effects of trauma, empowering them to regain control of their lives and rebuild emotional resilience.
What Is Cognitive Processing Therapy?
CPT is an evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on helping individuals understand and reframe the thoughts and beliefs that have been shaped by trauma. Often, traumatic events lead to distorted thinking patterns that can keep you stuck in cycles of fear, guilt, or hopelessness. CPT helps you identify these patterns and replace them with healthier, more balanced perspectives.
Unlike therapies that only address symptoms, CPT focuses on understanding the "why" behind your feelings and behaviors, enabling deeper and lasting healing.
What Can Cognitive Processing Therapy Help With?
CPT is especially effective for individuals experiencing mental health problems associated with:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Childhood trauma
- Sexual assault or abuse
- Military or combat-related trauma
- Traumatic grief or loss
- Witnessing or surviving accidents or violence
CPT can be used on its own or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other therapeutic approaches or medication management. We tailor our care to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you receive holistic and effective support.
Treatment Process
CPT is a structured therapy typically conducted over 12-16 sessions. It involves:
Understanding Your Trauma Responses
In the initial phase, your therapist will help you explore how trauma has affected your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Identifying Stuck Points
These are specific thoughts or beliefs that may be preventing you from moving forward, such as self-blame or mistrust of others.
Challenging and Changing Thoughts
Through guided exercises and discussions, you’ll learn to question and reframe unhelpful thoughts, replacing them with perspectives that promote healing.
Building New Patterns
The final phase focuses on solidifying the skills you’ve learned and applying them in daily life to create lasting change.
Highlights of Cognitive Processing Therapy
CPT provides a clear and actionable path to recovery for individuals struggling with trauma. It empowers you to:
- Break free from self-blame and guilt
- Develop healthier ways to cope with triggers
- Restore trust in yourself and others
- Reclaim your sense of safety and control