Cognitive Processing Therapy - Christchurch
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a structured, evidence-based approach to treating trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It helps people understand how trauma has shaped the way they think and feel, and how those thoughts might be keeping them stuck. CPT has been extensively researched and is recognised internationally as one of the most effective treatments for PTSD. It is particularly well suited for those who want a focused, time-limited approach to working through the impact of trauma. While it takes commitment, many people find that CPT offers a clear path forward, helping them feel more connected to themselves and more confident in how they relate to the world.
How does cpt help with trauma?
After trauma, it’s common to form painful beliefs about yourself, others, or the world. These often begin as ways to make sense of what happened, but over time can leave you feeling stuck, isolated, or unsafe. This approach helps gently shift those patterns so they no longer hold the same power. Together, we explore the meanings you’ve carried, especially those that feel unfair or overly harsh, and make space for perspectives that feel more rational and balanced. As these patterns shift, many people find their emotions begin to soften, opening space for clarity.
What to expect in sessions
CPT typically takes place over 12 structured sessions, with each session building on the last. CPT does not require you to retell every detail of your trauma, as the focus is on how the trauma continues to affect you now.
Early sessions focus on understanding how trauma impacts your thoughts, emotions, and body. You’ll explore the connection between what happened and how you think about it now, and begin identifying specific thoughts that may be keeping you stuck.
Middle sessions involve learning to challenge and reframe unhelpful beliefs through guided worksheets and discussions, helping you shift toward more supportive ways of thinking.
Later sessions explore how trauma may have affected key areas of life, such as safety, trust, power, self-worth, and intimacy.
Throughout therapy, you’ll be supported with structured exercises and reflection tasks between sessions. These help you apply what you're learning in daily life and keep progress moving forward.
Is CPT Right for me?
CPT can be a good fit if you like structure, appreciate clear steps, and are open to learning practical skills for managing the effects of trauma. It’s especially helpful if you're ready to look at how your thoughts may have been shaped by what happened, and how they might be affecting your life now.
This approach involves reflection and practice between sessions, so it suits people who are willing to engage in short writing tasks and apply the strategies outside the therapy room. You don’t need to be confident with this at the start, just open to giving it a go.
CPT may not be the best fit if you’re looking for a purely conversational style of therapy, prefer less structured sessions, or aren’t ready to reflect on how the trauma has impacted your thinking. In these cases, a different approach may feel more helpful or comfortable to begin with. That said, you don’t have to decide on your own. We’re here to help you think through your options and find a path that works for you.
Which Trauma Therapy Works Best for You?
Everyone’s experience of trauma is different, and so is the path to healing. While some people are drawn to structured approaches like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), others may feel more comfortable with therapies that allow for different pacing or focus areas.
Trauma-Focused therapy options
Each of these therapies has a slightly different emphasis, whether it’s making sense of your story, reducing the impact of traumatic memories, or working through lingering emotions like guilt or shame. If you’re unsure which approach is the best fit, we’re happy to talk it through with you.
Book a CPT Appointment in Christchurch
If you’re ready to take a structured, practical approach to healing from trauma, we’re here to support you. Cognitive Processing Therapy offers clear steps toward understanding what’s been holding you back and how to move forward with greater clarity and strength. Contact us today to find out more information or book an initial appointment.
“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.”