Understanding Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and How It Can Help You Heal from Trauma
Trauma can deeply affect how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us. Whether you’re a veteran, a first responder, a survivor of abuse, or someone who has experienced a painful loss or life event, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a proven, evidence-based therapy that can help you move forward.
At Willow Therapy Utah, we offer Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help individuals heal from PTSD, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Our experienced therapists, including Alisha Delacruz, LCSW, use this powerful approach to guide clients toward a place of understanding, self-compassion, and emotional strength.
What Is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)?
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed specifically for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related issues. It helps individuals:
-
Identify and challenge unhelpful beliefs related to trauma
-
Restructure negative thought patterns
-
Reduce distressing symptoms like guilt, shame, fear, and anxiety
-
Regain a sense of control over their lives
CPT is typically delivered in 12–16 sessions and has been shown to be highly effective for military veterans, sexual assault survivors, first responders, and anyone who has experienced significant trauma.
Learn more from the National Center for PTSD.
How Does CPT Work?
CPT helps you confront and reframe the thoughts and beliefs that keep trauma symptoms alive. The process usually involves:
Education about PTSD and trauma
Your therapist will teach you how trauma impacts the brain and emotions. This foundation helps you better understand your symptoms and how CPT can help.
Identifying “stuck points”
Stuck points are negative beliefs about yourself, others, or the world that are rooted in your trauma (e.g., “I’m weak because I couldn’t stop it” or “I can’t trust anyone”).
Challenging and replacing negative thoughts
Through structured exercises and discussions, you’ll learn to replace unhelpful thoughts with more balanced, realistic ones. This helps reduce emotional pain and promotes long-term healing.
Homework and reflection
CPT includes daily practices and writing exercises between sessions to deepen insight and strengthen your new cognitive tools.
Who Is CPT For?
CPT can be an excellent fit for individuals experiencing:
-
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
-
Sexual or physical assault
-
Combat or military trauma
-
Childhood trauma
-
First responder trauma
-
Grief and loss
-
Identity-based trauma (related to race, gender, or orientation)
Meet Alisha Delacruz, LCSW: CPT-Trained and Trauma-Informed
One of our newest therapists, Alisha Delacruz, LCSW, is a military veteran and a trauma-informed clinician with advanced training in CPT. She works with children, teens, and adults and brings deep empathy to those who have experienced trauma.
As a former member of the United States Air Force, Alisha understands the complexities of military life, PTSD, and stress. Her calm, authentic approach provides a safe space for healing—especially for first responders and veterans seeking effective, structured support.
How CPT Differs from Other Trauma Therapies
There are several effective treatments for trauma, and CPT is just one of many we offer at Willow Therapy Utah. Here’s how it compares to other approaches:
CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT focuses on changing unhelpful thinking and behavior. While CPT is a form of CBT, it is more targeted toward trauma processing.
DBT – Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT helps people regulate intense emotions and improve relationships. It’s ideal for clients with self-harm, borderline personality disorder, or emotional dysregulation.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
We use Trauma-Informed Therapy to treat trauma while acknowledging its deep, complex impacts. CPT fits within this model, giving you structured healing that honors your story.
Additional Therapy Approaches We Offer
In addition to CPT, our team is trained in multiple evidence-based approaches, including:
-
Play Therapy (for children and teens)
We believe therapy should be flexible, customized, and compassionate. Our clinicians work closely with you to find what fits your needs best.
Insurance Coverage and CPT Therapy
We proudly accept most major insurance plans, including:
-
And more!
Using your insurance can make therapy more affordable. Learn more about how to get started with insurance-based therapy.
Scheduling a CPT Therapy Session
Ready to begin your healing journey? Whether you’re a first responder, veteran, or someone seeking trauma recovery, our team is here to support you.
We offer both in-person sessions and telehealth therapy options across Utah. You can also learn more about how we support first responders or read how CPT helps veterans through the VA.
Schedule an appointment with Alisha or another member of our team today.
Pingback: