Dr Lauren Hanegraaf explains CPT to her client

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a cognitive behavioural therapy designed to treat PTSD. It addresses negative beliefs or “stuck points” resulting from trauma. CPT involves 12 sessions, focusing on re-evaluating distorted beliefs and processing the trauma. Research supports its effectiveness in reducing PTSD, depression, and alcohol misuse symptoms.

What is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)?

A selection of psychology self-help books stacked on a coffee table

The past few years have been challenging due to events like bushfires and the pandemic. Trauma refers to both traumatic events and psychological injury from such events. Symptoms include fearfulness, sleep issues, and preoccupation with the event. Recovery often involves support networks and coping strategies, but professional treatment may be necessary.

Understanding trauma: What is trauma and how can it affect me?

Clinical Psychologist Joanne Ronalds is listening to her client who is seeking therapy for her trauma and recovery

While there are effective treatments for people struggling with the impact of a traumatic event, many people face barriers that prevent them from getting help. Overcoming these barriers can be difficult but not impossible. Here are some first steps we recommend you take to start your journey to recovery. 

Taking the first steps: Overcoming the barriers to trauma recovery

Dr Sarah Davenport reads a book on trauma

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by traumatic events. PTSD symptoms include re-living the traumatic event, feeling wound up, avoiding reminders of the traumatic event, and experiencing negative thoughts and emotions. Effective treatments include Cognitive Processing Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Retraining, and Prolonged Exposure.

Understanding Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Clinical Psychologist Amy Felman provides support, reassurance and guidance to a client in trauma therapy

Experiencing trauma can significantly impact one’s physical and emotional well-being. While most people recover using common coping strategies, some need psychological therapies to improve. However, barriers like the fear of reliving trauma, trusting psychologists, judgment, and doubts about treatment efficacy often impede seeking help. Addressing these barriers is crucial to recovery.

Common barriers to trauma recovery