An open access journal
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Military Veterans: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) has emerged as a widely used and evidence-based treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in military veterans, focusing on cognitive restructuring techniques to address trauma-related beliefs and symptoms. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of CPT in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in military veterans with PTSD. Through an exhaustive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of CPT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, treatment as usual, supportive therapy) in targeting PTSD symptoms, including re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative cognitions. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, treatment format (individual vs. group), and participant characteristics (e.g., combat exposure, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of CPT for PTSD in military veterans.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Resick, P. A., et al. (2002). Cognitive processing therapy for rape victims: A treatment manual. Sage Publications.
- Monson, C. M., et al. (2006). Cognitive processing therapy for veterans with military-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(5), 898-907.
- Chard, K. M., et al. (2012). Cognitive processing therapy for veterans with combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 80(5), 897-907.
- Galovski, T. E., et al. (2012). Cognitive processing therapy for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: A comparison between outpatient and residential treatment. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 80(6), 1099-1108.
- Resick, P. A., et al. (2017). Long-term outcomes from the PTSD treatment trial for female survivors of assault. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 85(2), 63-77.
- Steenkamp, M. M., et al. (2015). The efficacy of cognitive processing therapy in the treatment of PTSD among veterans: A meta-analysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 83(2), 193-201.