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Cognitive Processing Therapy, known as CPT, was created by Dr. Patricia A. Resick in 1988. This methodical form of therapy is designed to assist individuals dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The therapy typically includes 12 sessions, each ranging from 60 to 90 minutes.
CPT can be effectively implemented in both one-on-one therapy and in group settings with 6 to 10 participants, all of whom are experiencing PTSD. It can also serve as a dual diagnosis treatment for individuals facing PTSD alongside other issues, such as substance use disorders.
In this therapy, clients are guided to assess and modify distressing thoughts linked to their trauma. The fundamental idea behind CPT is that altering your thought patterns can change your emotional responses. Commonly addressed thoughts involve feelings of guilt regarding the trauma and perceptions of a dangerous world.
The therapy starts with education about PTSD, helping clients gain a deeper insight into their symptoms and experiences. Socratic questioning is often utilized during the early stages of CPT treatment. You may inquire about the type of trauma your client has endured without delving into intricate details.
CPT is structured, meaning the 12 sessions follow a consistent format. One significant component involves clients composing a first impact statement, reflecting on how their trauma has influenced them as individuals rather than just focusing on the event. Later, you will assist them in evaluating whether the facts of their trauma match their thoughts. For instance, a client burdened by guilt may analyze their involvement in the incident to better understand their role, potentially leading them to reassess their viewpoint.
Explore all of our worksheets for Cognitive Processing Therapy
Establishing Goals and Objectives in a Cognitive Processing Therapy Treatment Plan
The efficacy of CPT varies in different studies. According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 40% of Veterans who complete CPT no longer meet the clinical criteria for PTSD. Research has shown improvements across various areas, including PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, feelings of guilt, and adjustment difficulties.
Worksheets are frequently integrated into CPT sessions and can be assigned for clients to complete at home. TherapyByPro is a prominent resource for mental health professionals, providing a variety of mental health worksheets, encompassing those for CPT. A few examples of documents that may enhance your therapy sessions are:
When defining your treatment objectives for CPT, it’s crucial that your goals are in harmony with the principles of CPT and the initial phases of therapy. Goals should also be realistic for your client, considering their available support and resources.
Components of a Cognitive Processing Therapy Treatment Plan
In the following sections, we will concentrate on formulating a treatment plan for cognitive processing therapy, as illustrated in the TherapyByPro Treatment Plan Template. This document is editable. Keep reading to learn about Jane’s case:
Jane’s Background:
Jane is a 24-year-old woman who experienced a severe car accident approximately three months ago, which has led to ongoing mental health challenges. She was struck by a drunk driver, resulting in serious physical injuries necessitating hospitalization and prolonged rehabilitation. Jane reports experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, heightened alertness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep issues, and she restricts her travel to places that are accessible for walking or biking. She expressed difficulty in feeling joy and happiness and experiences anxiety when she needs to travel by vehicle.
Despite her symptoms, Jane’s work as a remote customer service representative has been minimally affected. However, her social life has suffered; she participates in fewer outings with friends than she used to due to the distance involved. Jane lives with her partner, who is understanding and supportive. She indicated that when driving to appointments is necessary, he accompanies her, providing encouragement and support throughout the journey.
Jane shared her ongoing mental health challenges with her physical therapist, who recommended her to the outpatient clinic where you work. Following her initial evaluation, it was confirmed that she meets the clinical criteria for PTSD. At present, she is not on any medications but is open to consultations with the psychiatrist on staff.
Agencies Involved and Care Coordination Plans
The agency that referred Jane is her Physical Therapist. It would be beneficial to maintain communication with this provider to guarantee coordinated care.
Example for Jane:
Care Coordination: Physical Therapist John Doe, (123) 456-7890
Clinical Diagnoses
From the information gathered, Jane fulfills the clinical criteria for PTSD. Key symptoms related to this diagnosis include hypervigilance, nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and challenges with experiencing positive emotions.
Example for Jane:
Clinical Diagnosis: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 309.81 (F43.10)
Current Medications and Responses
Jane reported not taking any medications at this time and expressed willingness to consult with the psychiatrist at your outpatient clinic. If she starts medication to alleviate her symptoms, you will need to adjust her treatment plan accordingly.
Example for Jane:
Current Medications: None
Presenting Issues and Associated Symptoms
This section of the treatment plan allows for the inclusion of a case conceptualization. The information provided needs to align with your diagnosis, therapeutic goals, and the interventions planned.
Example for Jane:
Jane, a 24-year-old woman, displays mental health distress following a serious car accident three months prior. She was involved in an incident with a drunk driver and suffered severe injuries that necessitated hospitalization and ongoing rehab. Jane is experiencing PTSD symptoms, such as nightmares, flashbacks, increased alertness, irritability, difficulties concentrating, and…
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Jane shared that she has been experiencing sleep disturbances and discomfort with car travel. To manage this, she prefers walking or biking. She also noted a reduced capacity to feel happiness and expresses frequent anxiety about traveling by car when necessary.
Despite her psychological challenges, Jane mentioned that her work as a remote customer service representative has been minimally affected. However, she has withdrawn from social activities, especially those that require extensive travel.
Currently, Jane lives with a supportive partner who helps her get to appointments and provides motivation. After discussing her mental health issues, her physical therapist referred her to the clinic. The initial assessment confirmed her PTSD diagnosis. Even though she is not on medication, Jane is receptive to consulting the clinic’s psychiatrist. It is recommended that the clinic coordinate care with her referring physical therapist.
Goals and Objectives
The objectives of Jane’s Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) treatment plan should be tailored to her specific needs and aligned with the selected therapeutic approach. Since CPT is structured, the goals for this case will focus on the initial phases of therapy.
Example for Jane:
Goal 1: Deliver Psychoeducation About PTSD and CPT
- Objective 1: Identify her persistent thoughts related to her trauma through discussions and writing tasks.
- Objective 2: Investigate the relationship between her thoughts, feelings, and actions to enhance her awareness of trauma-related behaviors.
- Objective 3: Introduce relaxation methods to help manage PTSD symptoms.
Goal 2: Foster Emotional Engagement and Shift Negative Beliefs
- Objective 1: Investigate emotions associated with her trauma using worksheets.
- Objective 2: Challenge and reframe negative beliefs surrounding safety and trust through Socratic questioning.
- Objective 3: Enhance her ability to identify and manage her emotions.
Goal 3: Introduce and Practice New Coping Mechanisms
- Objective 1: Begin exploring self-soothing strategies for use during triggers.
- Objective 2: Start participating in fulfilling activities to rebuild social ties.
- Objective 3: Gradually resume car travel using exposure techniques.
Specific Interventions to Be Implemented
In this section, you can detail the interventions that will be employed to help achieve the client’s goals. This will serve as a reference for future sessions and remind you of possible interventions.
Example for Jane:
Intervention 1:
Writing a Trauma Narrative
Responsible person: Jane
Intervention 2:
Completing the Stuck Points Worksheet
Responsible person: Jane
Intervention 3:
Providing Psychoeducation on CPT and PTSD
Responsible person: Counselor A
Intervention 4:
Engagement in Socratic Questioning
Responsible person: Counselor A
Intervention 5:
Implementing Behavioral Activation
Responsible person: Counselor A and Jane
Family Participation
According to the information given, it seems that involving her family in treatment may not be necessary.
Example for Jane:
Family Participation: Not needed at this time
Additional Services and Interventions
To support her progress, additional services such as a trauma survivor support group, case management, medication management, and ongoing individual therapy post-CPT could be beneficial. These service options can be discussed with Jane, allowing her to select services she wishes to pursue.
Example for Jane:
Additional Services: Discuss options available and let her decide which services to engage in.
Estimation for Completion
CPT is a structured therapy that typically comprises 12 sessions, generally held once a week.
Example for Jane:
Estimated Time for Completion: 12 weeks of individual therapy sessions
Aftercare Plans
Aftercare plans should be outlined as if Jane is being discharged from treatment today. This section can serve as a resource for referrals in case of an abrupt end to treatment.
Example for Jane:
Aftercare Plans: Consult with a primary care doctor for a mental health treatment referral and psychiatric support.
Concluding Thoughts on Developing a Treatment Plan for Cognitive Processing Therapy
Cognitive Processing Therapy is an effective treatment for those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. Studies indicate that this method can significantly reduce trauma-related symptoms such as flashbacks and heightened vigilance. Many find enhancements in their emotional regulation and stress management skills as a result.
CPT also helps clients improve their relationships by reducing irritability and bettering their understanding of how PTSD symptoms impact them. For those interested in learning more about cognitive processing therapy and its implementation, seeking local continuing education and training opportunities is encouraged.
TherapyByPro is an online directory for mental health services that connects clients with mental health professionals. If you’re a mental health provider, consider joining our community and adding your practice listing here. We offer assessments, practice paperwork, and worksheet templates for mental health experts to optimize their practice. Explore all of our
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access mental health worksheets here.
Explore our entire collection of Cognitive Processing Therapy Worksheets
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