Get PTSD Treatment you can count on.
Serving Montrose, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and all cities across CA.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I provide deeply personalized, trauma-informed care for clients seeking a thoughtful and effective path toward healing. My practice is designed to offer a calm, private, and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and teens can engage in meaningful inner work with depth, intention, and care.
I believe therapy should be both clinically grounded and highly individualized. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities with a nuanced understanding of trauma, creating a therapeutic experience that is compassionate, attuned, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. Every aspect of care is approached with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the complexity of each person’s healing process.
I am committed to offering a standard of care that feels both deeply supportive and exceptionally intentional. My goal is to help clients move beyond patterns of distress and toward greater clarity, resilience, emotional balance, and lasting well-being. Through a refined, relational, and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a space where genuine healing and meaningful transformation can unfold.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be a debilitating condition that affects individuals in various ways, from intrusive memories to severe anxiety. For those seeking effective PTSD treatments, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) has emerged as a beacon of hope. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy in Montrose, CA, we specialize in trauma therapy and understand the profound impact PTSD can have on your life. in this article, we will delve into what CPT is, how it works, and its effectiveness in PTSD recovery.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a structured, evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically designed for individuals grappling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Developed in the 1980s by Dr. Patricia Resick, CPT focuses on helping individuals process and reframe their thoughts related to traumatic experiences. The primary objective is to reduce the symptoms of PTSD by addressing the unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that keep individuals stuck in their trauma.
In understanding CPT, it’s essential to recognize the role of cognitive distortions in PTSD. Cognitive distortions are irrational or exaggerated thought patterns that can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and depression. For instance, a person who has experienced a traumatic event may believe, “I am to blame for what happened.” This belief can lead to severe feelings of guilt and shame, perpetuating the cycle of PTSD. CPT aims to identify and challenge these distortions, allowing individuals to develop a more balanced perspective on their trauma.
During CPT, clients typically engage in a series of sessions that last about 12 weeks, although the duration may vary based on individual needs. The therapy can be conducted in individual or group formats, providing a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and learn from one another. The core components of CPT include:
One of the key elements of CPT is its focus on cognitive restructuring. This involves teaching clients to identify their automatic thoughts and beliefs that arise in response to reminders of the trauma. For instance, a veteran might experience anxiety when hearing fireworks due to their association with gunfire. Through CPT, they learn to recognize these automatic thoughts and challenge their validity. They may ask themselves, “Is this thought helping me?” or “What evidence do I have that supports or contradicts this thought?”
CPT encourages clients to engage in homework assignments between sessions. These assignments are designed to reinforce the skills learned in therapy and promote ongoing self-reflection. For instance, clients might be asked to keep a thought diary, where they track negative thoughts and practice reframing them. This practice not only strengthens their cognitive skills but also fosters a sense of agency in their recovery process.
Another vital aspect of CPT is the emphasis on emotional processing. Clients are encouraged to explore and express their emotions related to the trauma. This can be challenging, as many individuals with PTSD may have learned to suppress or avoid their feelings. However, CPT provides a safe space for clients to confront these emotions, helping them to understand that feeling these emotions is a natural part of the healing process.
Throughout the therapy, the therapist plays a crucial role as a guide and facilitator. They help clients navigate their thoughts and emotions, providing support and encouragement. Building a strong therapeutic alliance is essential, as it fosters trust and safety, enabling clients to delve into difficult topics. For many, the relationship with their therapist can be a transformative element of their recovery journey.
Research supports the efficacy of Cognitive Processing Therapy in treating PTSD. Studies have shown that CPT significantly reduces PTSD symptoms, as well as associated depression and anxiety. The skills learned in CPT can have long-lasting benefits, equipping individuals with tools to cope with future stressors and challenges. As clients learn to challenge negative thoughts and reframe their beliefs, they often find that they are better able to manage their emotional responses in various situations beyond their trauma.
For those considering CPT, it is essential to approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the process. While facing traumatic memories can be daunting, the structured nature of CPT provides a clear roadmap for recovery. Finding a qualified therapist who specializes in CPT and understands the complexities of PTSD is crucial for a successful therapeutic experience.
Cognitive Processing Therapy is a valuable tool in the treatment of PTSD, offering a structured approach to address the cognitive and emotional challenges that arise from trauma. By focusing on identifying and reframing negative thoughts, clients can learn to reclaim their lives and move toward healing. The journey may be challenging, but with the right support and commitment, recovery is not only possible but attainable.
Experience compassionate trauma-informed therapy designed to support your emotional healing and recovery, helping you navigate psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress with expert guidance and understanding.
Experience compassionate self-esteem counseling that empowers you to build confidence, enhance your self-worth, and improve your body image through personalized therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate anxiety therapy designed to help you manage anxiety disorders, overcome challenges, and find peace through personalized support and effective treatment strategies.
The effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) lies in its structured approach that empowers clients to take an active role in their healing. By focusing on cognitive restructuring, clients learn to identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs that stem from the traumatic event. This method is based on the understanding that the way individuals interpret and think about their experiences significantly affects their emotional and psychological well-being.
One of the foundational aspects of CPT is the concept of "cognitive distortions." These are irrational or exaggerated thought patterns that can lead to negative emotions and behaviors. For example, someone who has experienced a traumatic event may believe they are to blame for what happened or that they will never feel safe again. CPT guides clients to explore these thoughts and understand that they are not facts but rather interpretations influenced by the trauma. Through guided exercises, clients can replace these negative beliefs with more balanced and realistic thoughts.
During the initial sessions of CPT, therapists help clients articulate their trauma narratives. This process involves writing about the traumatic event in detail, which serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows clients to confront the event in a safe environment, reducing the power it holds over them. Secondly, it helps in identifying specific thoughts and beliefs that are impacting their current functioning. This narrative serves as a baseline for the cognitive restructuring process.
Once the trauma narrative is established, clients are taught to identify cognitive distortions related to their trauma. Common distortions include:
By pinpointing these distortions, clients begin to see how their thoughts influence their feelings and behaviors. The therapist's role is to facilitate this realization and guide clients towards developing healthier thought patterns. For instance, if a client believes they are to blame for their trauma, the therapist may encourage them to examine the evidence for this belief, helping them to recognize external factors that contributed to the situation.
Another critical component of CPT is the use of Socratic questioning. This technique involves asking probing questions that lead clients to discover the flaws in their thinking independently. For example, a therapist might ask, "What evidence do you have that you are to blame for this event?" or "How might someone else view this situation differently?" This method empowers clients to challenge their beliefs actively rather than passively accepting them.
CPT also incorporates the practice of developing more balanced thoughts. After identifying distorted beliefs, clients work on formulating alternative thoughts that are more accurate and constructive. For instance, if a client believes, "I will never feel safe again," they might reframe this to, "I can take steps to feel safer and gradually regain my sense of security." This shift from negative to positive thinking is crucial in fostering resilience and hope.
To cognitive restructuring, CPT emphasizes the importance of emotional processing. Clients are encouraged to confront their feelings associated with the trauma rather than suppressing them. This may involve discussing feelings of anger, guilt, sadness, or fear, which are natural responses to trauma. Acknowledging and processing these emotions can lead to a deeper understanding of their impact on the client's life and facilitate healing.
As clients progress through CPT, they are often assigned homework tasks designed to reinforce the concepts learned in therapy. These tasks might include continuing to write their trauma narrative, practicing identifying cognitive distortions in daily life, or using thought records to track their thoughts and feelings in real-time situations. This practice not only solidifies learning but also helps clients apply CPT principles outside of therapy sessions, which is vital for long-term recovery.
CPT is adaptable and can be tailored to meet the individual needs of clients. Some may benefit from a more structured approach, while others might prefer flexibility in how they explore their thoughts and feelings. Therapists trained in CPT can adjust their methods to align with the client's pace and comfort level, ensuring a supportive therapeutic environment.
Research has shown that CPT is effective for a wide range of individuals struggling with PTSD, including veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and those who have experienced natural disasters. The therapy typically spans 12 to 16 sessions, although the duration may vary based on individual progress. Many clients report a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and hyperarousal, as well as improvements in overall functioning and quality of life.
Cognitive Processing Therapy works by empowering clients to take control of their thoughts and emotions through a structured approach that emphasizes cognitive restructuring, emotional processing, and practical application of skills learned in therapy. By addressing cognitive distortions and fostering a more balanced viewpoint, CPT not only aids in the recovery from PTSD but also equips individuals with tools to navigate future challenges, ultimately leading to a more resilient and fulfilling life.
Cognitive Processing Therapy offers numerous benefits for those seeking recovery from PTSD:
Clear, practical answers for people considering Trauma Therapy and looking for a thoughtful next step.
Touchstone Trauma Therapy is a mental health practice located in Montrose, CA, specializing in trauma therapy. We provide personalized care to help clients navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and depression through holistic, trauma-informed approaches.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens who are facing mental health challenges. Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, perfectionism, or feelings of disconnection, we are here to support you on your healing journey.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of trauma-informed therapies tailored to individual needs. Our approaches may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic therapies, and other holistic methods aimed at promoting healing and resilience.
If you are experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress related to past experiences, trauma therapy may be beneficial. Our team can help assess your needs and guide you toward appropriate support.
During your first session at Touchstone Trauma Therapy, you will meet with a therapist who will discuss your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This initial assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Yes, therapy sessions at Touchstone Trauma Therapy are confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety, allowing you to share your experiences in a secure and supportive environment.
Somatic Therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that emphasizes the connection between the brain, mind, and body. It utilizes body awareness as a therapeutic tool to explore and resolve the somatic (physical) symptoms of psychological issues. This approach helps individuals recognize and release the physical tension that remains in the body due to past trauma and stress.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative therapeutic model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the various parts within themselves. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives. IFS is commonly utilized to work with trauma memories or difficult childhood experiences.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that treats trauma by safely reconnecting individuals with the traumatic images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations they experienced, leveraging the brain’s natural healing process—Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on the traumatic event itself, EMDR targets the emotional disturbances and symptoms stemming from the trauma. The goal is to process these troubling memories, reduce their impact, and help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Through EMDR, memories are transferred from the emotional part of the brain (limbic system) to long-term storage, transforming them from intrusive relived experiences into memories of past events that no longer wield disruptive power.
Numerous studies have shown that Cognitive Processing Therapy is an effective treatment for PTSD. Clients often report significant reductions in symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and overall anxiety. The therapy's structured nature allows for measurable progress, helping clients track their improvements over time.
CPT has been recognized by leading mental health organizations, including the American Psychological Association, as a recommended treatment for PTSD. Many individuals who have undergone CPT at Touchstone Trauma Therapy have found it to be a transformative experience, allowing them to reclaim their lives from the grip of trauma.
Experience compassionate depression counseling and effective clinical depression therapy tailored to your needs, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you overcome major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
Experience compassionate EMDR therapy tailored for healing from PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, and abuse recovery, helping you navigate complex trauma and reclaim your life with confidence.
Experience healing through Somatic Experiencing Therapy, a holistic approach that combines body-oriented psychotherapy and mind-body techniques to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting deep relaxation and emotional well-being.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, seeking support is an important first step toward healing. Whether you are navigating Trauma Therapy, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, this is a calm place to begin with trust, care, and intention.
Talk with a trusted therapist and take the next step forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Experience transformative healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy, a compassionate approach that nurtures your inner parts, promoting personal growth and resilience through effective trauma healing and self-led therapy.
Experience compassionate and evidence-based PTSD treatment, including trauma-focused therapy and clinical counseling, designed to support your journey towards healing and recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Experience compassionate relationship trauma counseling that focuses on healing interpersonal wounds, fostering secure attachments, and promoting resilience through specialized attachment-based therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate grief and loss counseling that supports your healing journey, helping you navigate bereavement, cope with loss, and find peace through specialized therapy tailored to your needs.
Experience compassionate support with our Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy, designed to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and overcome burnout through effective techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
If you or a loved one are struggling with PTSD and seeking effective treatment options, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to help. Our team, led by experienced professionals, offers personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We understand that every healing journey is different, and we are committed to providing the support you need to navigate your challenges.
Located in Montrose, CA, we take pride in offering a safe, compassionate space for individuals, couples, and teens to explore their mental health concerns. Our services focus on holistic, trauma-informed therapies, including Cognitive Processing Therapy, to help you move forward on your path to recovery.
To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (626) 824-8572 or visit our website at touchstonetraumatherapy.com. You can also reach out to Kristin at kristin@touchstonetraumatherapy.com. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and resilience.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens seeking support for mental health challenges.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to guide you on your journey to healing.
TTT offers services to the cities of Montrose, Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank and Pasadena. TTT also offers remote video sessions throughout the state of California.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
