CPT is a proven, structured therapy that helps you understand how trauma has affected your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors — and guides you in building healthier patterns. Through about 12 weekly sessions, CPT helps reduce PTSD symptoms and restore peace of mind.
Cognitive Processing Therapy is one of the leading treatments for PTSD, backed by extensive research and trusted by both military and civilian healthcare systems. By addressing the unhelpful thoughts trauma leaves behind, CPT empowers you to reduce distress, regain control, and rebuild relationships.
In CPT, you’ll work closely with your therapist to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts related to your trauma. Each session is structured, with guided discussions and practice assignments that help you apply new skills between visits. Over time, you’ll gain a clearer perspective, reduce distress, and restore balance to your daily life.
ACT focuses on building psychological flexibility. Clients learn to accept difficult thoughts and feelings while staying committed to actions that align with their values.
ERP is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. It helps individuals gradually face fears and resist compulsive behaviors in a safe, structured way, reducing anxiety over time.
Through guided lessons and discussions, participants gain a clearer understanding of OCD, develop coping strategies, and learn skills to support long-term symptom management.
We start with an evaluation of your trauma history, symptoms, and goals to determine if CPT is the right fit.
CPT typically involves 12 weekly sessions, each building on the last to provide step-by-step progress.
The meaning of the traumatic event
Identifying thoughts and feelings
Safety, trust, power, and control
Self-esteem and intimacy challenges
Homework between sessions reinforces what you learn, helping you build skills more quickly.
The ultimate goal is to reduce PTSD symptoms, improve functioning, and restore a sense of peace and control.
Andrea M. Alvarez, M.Ed., LPC-S, NCC
At AMA Behavioral Therapy, we believe that effective treatment means never standing still. Our team is deeply committed to staying current on the most advanced research in OCD, anxiety, and other related conditions. Led by Andrea M. Alvarez, LPC-S, NCC—a Board Member of the Texas OCD Foundation—we actively engage with ongoing studies, clinical trainings, and professional networks to ensure our care reflects the very latest in the field.
But research alone isn’t enough. What sets AMA apart is how we translate these findings into real-world treatment. Every new approach is integrated thoughtfully with a strong foundation of evidence-based care, including ERP, CBT, and ACT. This balance allows us to bring clients the benefits of cutting-edge knowledge without losing the stability and trust of methods that have been proven effective over time.
Our clients can feel confident knowing their therapy is guided by a team that combines innovation with clinical integrity. With Andrea’s leadership and the collective expertise of the AMA team, we’re able to deliver care that is not only compassionate but also on the front edge of science—helping individuals and families achieve meaningful, lasting change.
If you’re ready to address PTSD with one of the most trusted evidence-based approaches, fill out the form below. Our therapists are trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and here to guide your healing process.
Choosing therapy is an important step, and it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. These FAQs are designed to give you clear, straightforward answers about the therapy process, confidentiality, insurance, and what makes treatment at AMA Behavioral Therapy effective and supportive.