The result of a traumatic experience can be both negative and positive. Cognitive processing therapy involves looking at previously held beliefs about self and the world and how the experience of a trauma has impacted those beliefs. Negative beliefs may be formulated or maintained following a traumatic event and could lead to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Regret is a negative coping strategy that may occur when someone regrets that they did not respond differently to a traumatic event. Additionally, an individual may use positive strategies to cope e.g., acceptance of the traumatic event and as a result it could lead to Post-traumatic Growth. It is important to understand what strategies an individual has used to cope with their experience of the trauma at the start of therapy. Cognitive processing therapy can reduce PTSD symptoms and increase the likelihood that an individual can grow from their experience of trauma.
If you or someone you know is in need of mental health support, there are many options available, including professional counseling. Please call us at (215) 487-1330 or email us at Greenridge@intercommunityaction.org for more information about our counseling services.
Author: Melissa Genn, MS, LBS
Reference
Juczyński, Z., & Ogińska-Bulik, N. (2018). Cognitive Processing of Trauma as a Predictor of the Negative and Positive Consequences of Experienced Traumatic Events. Postepy Psychiatrii i Neurologii / Advances in Psychiatry & Neurology, 27(4), 318–333. Retrieved from https://doi-org.holyfamily.idm.oclc.org/10.5114/ppn.2018.80884