Stuck points in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) are unhelpful or distorted thoughts that hinder progress in processing trauma. These thoughts often perpetuate negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world, contributing to ongoing distress. In CPT, stuck points are identified and systematically challenged through cognitive restructuring techniques, such as examining evidence supporting and contradicting the stuck point, generating alternative perspectives, and developing more balanced and realistic beliefs. In CPT, the therapist assists the client to work through their trauma narrative and identify stuck points.

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ABC worksheets, a great cognitive behavioral technique, are adapted for the CPT protocol. Once stuck points are identified, they are deconstructed using ABC worksheets while the client crafts a new, more integrated view of themselves, their trauma, and the world through the therapy process.

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Read about Stuck Points and try out an ABC worksheet with the following handout. We've also included an Identifying  Emotions handout to assist with identifying emotions for your ABC worksheets:

• CPT Stuck Points covered on pages  1-3 of the handout linked HERE.

• Identifying emotions handout covered on page 4 of the handout linked HERE.

• ABC worksheets covered on pages 5-7 of the handout as linked HERE.

We won't delve deeper into the deeper ins and outs of the therapy here and we will at least mention the 5 themes of PTSD here. If you're interested in CPT as a therapy, we suggest you find a mental health provider in your area who offers this resource. Psychology Today is a great resource to find a provider in your area based on insurance and style of therapy. 

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Safety is a foundational theme in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because it establishes a secure therapeutic environment for individuals to explore traumatic experiences. By creating a safe space, therapists help clients feel supported and empowered to engage in the challenging work of processing trauma.

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Read on to learn a little more about CPT themes below.

Trust is essential in CPT as it forms the basis of the therapeutic relationship. Clients must trust their therapist to provide compassionate and nonjudgmental support as they navigate through distressing memories and emotions. Through trust, clients feel validated and understood, facilitating the healing process.

Power refers to the sense of control and agency that individuals regain as they work through their trauma in CPT. By reclaiming a sense of personal power, clients can challenge feelings of helplessness and vulnerability that often accompany trauma. Empowering clients to take an active role in their healing journey fosters a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy.

Esteem involves rebuilding a positive sense of self-worth and self-esteem following trauma. Through CPT, individuals learn to challenge negative beliefs about themselves that may have developed as a result of their experiences. By promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance, therapists help clients cultivate a more positive and resilient self-image.

Intimacy refers to the ability to form and maintain meaningful connections with others after experiencing trauma. In CPT, individuals address challenges related to trust, vulnerability, and emotional closeness in relationships. By fostering healthy boundaries, effective communication, and trust-building skills, therapists help clients cultivate fulfilling and supportive relationships in their lives.