Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for the Treatment of Shame and Guilt Associated with Trauma
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that has been proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). CPT focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful cognitive distortions and behaviors, improving emotional regulation, and developing personal coping strategies. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected. By understanding how these three elements interact with each other, we can better understand our reactions to traumatic events.
Shame and Guilt Are Common Emotions Associated With Trauma
Shame and guilt are two of the most common and crippling emotions that arise after experiencing a traumatic event. They can make individuals feel unworthy or responsible for what happened, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. However, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) offers a powerful and innovative approach to help individuals heal from these emotions and break free from their devastating impact.
Shame can be particularly insidious. It can leave individuals feeling like they are fundamentally flawed or unlovable. Shame can manifest as a persistent sense of self-doubt, feelings of inadequacy, and a general sense of worthlessness.
Guilt, on the other hand, can make individuals feel responsible for the traumatic event, especially if it involved the loss or injury of others. Over time, these emotions can cause them to withdraw from loved ones, become isolated, and have difficulty trusting others.
CPT Helps Recognize Underlying Thoughts
CPT teaches clients to recognize the underlying thoughts that are driving their shame and guilt, which often involve feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, and personal responsibility for the traumatic event. Once these thoughts are identified, clients practice challenging them and replacing them with more accurate, positive, and empowering thoughts. In this way, CPT helps clients to develop a healthier and more positive sense of self. This can translate into improved self-esteem, renewed confidence, and an overall sense of well-being.
By participating in CPT, individuals are empowered to overcome the debilitating effects of shame and guilt. They gain the knowledge and skills they need to confront difficult emotions head-on, replacing negative thoughts with positive ones and regaining control over their lives. Additionally, CPT can help individuals understand the impact of their trauma on their lives and relationships, offering them hope for the future and the motivation they need to create positive change in their lives.
CPT Has Been Demonstrated to be an Effective Treatment for Trauma
Overall, Cognitive Processing Therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for the trauma-related shame and guilt that individuals struggle with after experiencing a traumatic event. By addressing the underlying thoughts and emotions that drive these feelings, individuals can regain their sense of self-worth, feel empowered, and move towards a brighter future.
Recent research has shown that CPT can be effective when used in the shorter term by offering multiple sessions per day for as little as a week or two. This makes it an ideal option for those who are looking for quick relief from their trauma-related symptoms. In addition to reducing PTSD symptoms, CPT can also help individuals heal from the shame and guilt associated with trauma.
You Are Not Alone
If you've experienced trauma, you are not alone. PTSD is much more common than you’d think. The good news is that there is hope for healing and recovery, and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is just one of the many evidence-based treatments available to help. At Aspire Counseling, our trauma therapists have helped hundreds of other people living with PTSD in Missouri heal and we’d love to help you as well.
It's not uncommon to feel hesitant or fearful about starting therapy. Please remember that taking the first step is often the hardest. By putting your trust in the hands of experienced trauma counselors, you can get the help you need to overcome the effects of trauma and live a life free from the debilitating effects of shame, guilt, and fear.
Healing From Trauma Offers Potential For Growth and Transformation
One of the most powerful aspects of trauma healing is the potential for growth and transformation. While it's true that traumatic experiences can leave deep scars, it's important to recognize that these experiences can also be an opportunity for growth and greater compassion towards others. By tapping into your inner strength and resiliency, you can emerge from the healing process with a renewed sense of purpose and a greater appreciation for life.
If you're feeling lost or unsure about where to turn for help, know that there are resources available to you. In addition to seeking out professional therapy services, consider reaching out to support groups and online communities where you can connect with others who understand what you're going through and offer empathy, guidance, and support. Remember that healing is a journey, and it's one that you don't have to go through alone. By surrounding yourself with supportive people and seeking out the help you need, you can begin to move forward toward a brighter and more fulfilling future.
Our Trauma Intensive Therapy is Based on CPT
At Aspire Counseling, our Trauma Intensive program is based on CPT. It gives our clients the support and care they need to find relief and healing from the effects of trauma.
If you're tired of living with the constant negative self-talk, shame, and guilt then consider attending one of Aspire Counselings's trauma intensives today! Our program offers comprehensive care tailored specifically to your individual needs. Our goal is to help you get back on track toward living a life free from pain caused by past traumas!
Begin Intensive Trauma Therapy at Aspire Counseling in Lee’s Summit, MO
The road to recovery from PTSD can be long and challenging, but we believe that our one-week trauma-intensive program provides significant relief to those struggling with PTSD. With evidence-based therapy, concentrated sessions, and a follow-up session a month post-treatment to ensure any issues are addressed, our approach to PTSD care delivers significant results. If you have tried traditional therapy and still find yourself struggling with PTSD symptoms, we welcome you to explore our one-week trauma-intensive program at Aspire Counseling in Lee’s Summit, MO.
1) Reach out to our team online or by calling 573-328-2288
2) Have a quick chat via phone or Zoom with one of our therapists about the program
3) Schedule your Trauma Intensive!
Other Mental Health Supports at Aspire Counseling
Aspire Counseling offers a variety of other mental health supports for people in Missouri. We offer in-person counseling both in Lee’s Summit and Columbia, MO. While we specialize in counseling for anxiety and PTSD treatment, we can help with a wide range of other concerns as well. We generally see children aged 10 through retirement age. And we have therapists with various specialties including disordered eating, depression, grief, gender-affirming care, and OCD treatment.
In addition to our Trauma Therapy Intensive, Aspire Counseling offers many other therapy services related directly to overcoming trauma. These services include the following: