CPT is a highly effective evidence-based treatment that focuses on how the traumatic event is interpreted. The goal of CPT is to help people change their maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors related to the traumatic experience. In other words, it addresses beliefs of why the event(s) happened, and how people have coped as a result of these biased beliefs in effort to gain a sense of mastery and control of their lives.

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CPT works by relying on cognitive restructuring and exposure. Cognitive restructuring helps people to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. Exposure involves gradually exposing yourself to the things that trigger your anxiety or depression. 

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CPT can help people with trauma or PTSD by teaching them new ways of thinking about their trauma, as well as new ways to cope with their symptoms and reduce avoidance of things that remind them of the trauma.