Indications
Primary Indications
Post Traumatic Stress DisorderTrauma Related ConditionsMajor Depressive DisorderGeneralized Anxiety Disorder
A structured cognitive-behavioral approach that works on unhelpful beliefs about trauma and its meaning to reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.
Reviewed by the HeyPsych Medical Review Board · Reviewed November 24, 2025
Choose a condition to see how it's used for it.
Used for
Also prescribed for (off-label)
Common use
Cognitive Therapy for PTSD is used for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The full guide below has the details.
About Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)How many people in 100 notice each one in clinical studies. Many early side effects fade within a few weeks.
Exacerbation of dissociation if not carefully managed
Thoughts of suicide? Call or text 988, any time.
Everything we know about Cognitive Therapy for PTSD, section by section.
14 chapters · about 14 min to read it all. Open any one.
Frequency: Weekly sessions.
Duration: 8–12 sessions, extendable as needed.
Total Treatment Time: 2–3 months typical.
Symptom check-in and review of homework.
Cognitive restructuring, trauma memory work, behavioral experiments.
Assign homework (practice reappraisals, exposure, behavioral activation).
typical session cost: $120–$200/session
total treatment cost: $1,000–$2,000 depending on duration
insurance coverage: Typically covered under psychotherapy benefits
cost effectiveness: Cost-effective given high recovery rates and reduced chronic PTSD care needs
May require adaptation for complex trauma or high dissociation; not always effective without safety stabilization first.
This treatment information is for educational purposes only. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals based on individual circumstances, symptoms, and medical history. Do not attempt treatment without professional guidance.
Thinking about Cognitive Therapy for PTSD? A prescriber can tell you if it fits.
Find a psychiatrist