Choosing a Cognitive Processing Therapy Approach

As you can see, cognitive processing therapy can be a fairly intensive process, involving multiple, lengthy sessions and significant homework. For this reason, it is possible to follow TTC as an outpatient or inpatient. Both types of programs have demonstrated beneficial outcomes for patients. If you think TTC is worth pursuing, how do you decide which option is best for you?

One of the benefits of choosing an inpatient treatment program is that it can help you stay focused while you go through the processes mentioned above, which could optimize how you receive and respond to care. Inpatient cognitive processing therapy has been shown to reduce PTSD symptoms, including suicidal impulses, by decreasing patients' perceived burden on others and restructuring their negative beliefs.

  For example, veterans with PTSD who receive TTC in residential rehabilitation programs report greater improvement in their symptoms than those who receive outpatient treatment. Studies also show that the more people with PTSD receive inpatient treatment, the more they see improvement in their symptoms and the less need for outpatient services.

Despite this encouraging scientific evidence and all the clinical successes in favor of cognitive processing therapy for trauma, it is likely that you will not see results immediately – it may take some time before you see an improvement in symptoms. TTC sessions typically take place over a 12-week period, so the benefits of TTC should not be evident from day one. Long-term commitment and adherence to the program is necessary, and any improvement in symptoms you see will be gradual.

That said, one of the best aspects of the cognitive processing therapy approach to dealing with trauma is that the results are long-lasting. Several scientific studies have proven that improvement in PTSD symptoms can last for several months, or even years, after the TTC program ends. It is therefore no surprise that the American Psychological Association's (APA) Guideline Development Panel for the Treatment of PTSD strongly recommends TTC, among other cognitive-behavioral therapies, as a first-line treatment option for patients. adults with PTSD.

Of course, each patient responds differently to trauma therapy, and some treatments may be more effective for some than others. However, the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy for treating trauma- and stressor-related disorders have been repeatedly demonstrated, such that cognitive behavioral therapy is often recommended as the gold standard of all cognitive behavioral therapy approaches.

  Although it may seem daunting to take the first step in seeking treatment, and to continue receiving that treatment even if you don't see immediate results, it is essential to know when to seek help. If your trauma is negatively impacting your quality of life, well-being, or relationships, taking this first step can help develop long-term strategies to manage your beliefs about your trauma and get your life back on track .