Cognitive Processing Therapy & Prolonged Exposure (CPT/PE)
What are Cognitive Processing Therapy & Prolonged Exposure?
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE) are evidence-based approaches commonly used to treat trauma-related symptoms and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Both approaches are designed to help people process the effects of traumatic experiences, but they use different therapeutic strategies.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) focuses on identifying and addressing unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that may develop following trauma. CPT can help clients examine how trauma has affected the way they think about themselves, other people, and the world.
Prolonged Exposure (PE) focuses on gradually and safely approaching trauma-related memories, situations, and reminders that have been avoided. Through repeated, supported exposure, clients can learn that trauma reminders may be uncomfortable without being dangerous and develop greater confidence in managing their responses.
How Do CPT and PE Work?
CPT and PE are structured treatments that involve active participation between sessions as well as during therapy.
CPT may help you:
- Identify thoughts and beliefs that developed or changed after a traumatic experience
- Examine whether those thoughts are accurate or helpful
- Develop more balanced ways of thinking about the trauma and its effects
- Reduce feelings such as guilt, shame, fear, or self-blame
- Develop new perspectives that support recovery
PE may help you:
- Understand how avoidance can maintain trauma-related distress
- Gradually approach trauma memories and reminders in a safe, structured environment
- Reduce avoidance of situations or activities that have become associated with trauma
- Learn that trauma reminders can be experienced without automatically responding with fear or avoidance
- Build confidence in your ability to manage difficult emotions and memories
Your clinician will work with you to determine which approach is appropriate based on your symptoms, history, goals, and readiness for treatment.
Who Can Benefit From CPT or PE?
CPT and PE may be appropriate for individuals experiencing symptoms related to trauma or PTSD, including people whose lives have been significantly affected by a traumatic experience.
These approaches may be considered when trauma-related thoughts, memories, avoidance, or emotional responses are interfering with relationships, work, daily activities, or overall quality of life.
Because trauma treatment is highly individualized, your clinician will assess your needs and discuss treatment options with you.What Can CPT and PE Help With?
CPT and PE are commonly used to address trauma-related concerns, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Trauma-related anxiety
- Intrusive memories or unwanted thoughts about a traumatic event
- Avoidance of trauma reminders
- Feelings of guilt or self-blame related to trauma
- Fear and heightened emotional responses
- Difficulty feeling safe following a traumatic experience
- Trauma-related changes in beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world
What Can CPT and PE Help With?
CPT and PE are commonly used to address trauma-related concerns, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Trauma-related anxiety
- Intrusive memories or unwanted thoughts about a traumatic event
- Avoidance of trauma reminders
- Feelings of guilt or self-blame related to trauma
- Fear and heightened emotional responses
- Difficulty feeling safe following a traumatic experience
Trauma-related changes in beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world
CPT/PE at Modern Me Psychology
At Modern Me Psychology, our clinicians use evidence-based trauma-focused approaches to help clients work through the effects of traumatic experiences.
CPT and PE are structured treatments, and your clinician will explain what treatment involves, answer your questions, and work with you to determine whether one of these approaches fits your needs.
Trauma treatment is individualized. Your clinician will consider your history, current symptoms, treatment goals, and circumstances when developing a treatment plan.
Our Clinicians Who Use CPT/PE
The following Modern Me Psychology clinicians use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and/or Prolonged Exposure (PE):
If you’re interested in trauma-focused therapy but aren’t sure which approach or clinician is right for you, our Client Care team can help you explore your options.
Related Approaches
CPT and PE may be considered alongside other approaches depending on your individual needs, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT)
Ready to Get Started?
You don’t have to figure out which trauma treatment approach is right for you on your own. If you’re experiencing trauma-related concerns or symptoms of PTSD, contact Modern Me Psychology to discuss your needs and available treatment options.
Services are available in person at our Roselle, Illinois office and through telehealth for clients located in Illinois.
We accept several insurance plans, and coverage varies by plan and clinician. Contact us to confirm your benefits and whether your preferred provider and service are covered.
