Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) & Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
These structured trauma treatments reduce trauma symptoms and shift trauma-linked beliefs—helping you rebuild safety, trust, and self-understanding.
There’s no single “right” therapy—many people benefit from a blend, or a sequence, over time. What matters most is a pace that feels steady and supportive.
Who typically provides this?
Provided by licensed therapists trained in structured trauma protocols.
Training note
These are structured models. You can ask about training in the specific protocol and how they support stabilization before deeper processing.
Learn about credentials & training →What sessions can look like
- Skills first (coping, regulation), then trauma narrative / processing
- Identify stuck points (e.g., safety, trust, blame) and update beliefs
- Practice new coping and meaning-making strategies over time
Often helpful for
- PTSD
- Trauma-related anxiety/depression
- Adolescents (TF-CBT)
- Adults (CPT)
Good fit if…
- You want a structured trauma roadmap
- You like skills + cognitive frameworks
- You want measurable progress and clarity
If this feels hard right now, that’s okay
Sometimes the best next step is choosing the right pace and support level first—then building from there.
- You don’t want trauma-focused work right now—starting with stabilization and present-focused support is okay
If you want help choosing a steady starting point, the quiz can narrow the field fast.
Questions you can bring to a first session
You don’t have to ask all of these—pick the ones that would help you feel confident and supported.
- What does a typical session look like with you?
- How will we set goals—and how will we know if things are improving?
- If something feels too fast or too intense, how do you adjust pace and support?
- How do you tailor this approach to my needs, identity, and preferences?
- Which protocol are you trained in (TF-CBT, CPT), and how closely do you follow it?
- How do you support stabilization before deeper processing?
Educational only. Not medical advice. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.