Military trauma is a complex experience that can profoundly impact service members and veterans long after their service ends. Military trauma can arise from various sources, such as combat experiences, the stress of military life, or even military sexual trauma (MST).
Understanding what military trauma entails, recognizing its impacts, and knowing that help is available are critical steps toward healing.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) has emerged as a powerful tool in the journey toward healing, particularly for individuals living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This evidence-based approach has gained recognition for its effectiveness in addressing Military Trauma and helping people reframe the negative thoughts associated with their experiences.
Cognitive Processing Therapy is a structured, time-limited form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) developed specifically for treating PTSD. Research done decades ago lead to an incredible treatment for military trauma that has been a turning point towards complete recovery. This military trauma therapy is called CPT. It’s primary focus is to first identify, then reframe distorted beliefs that are often a consequence of trauma. By confronting these distortions, patients can process their trauma in a healthy way and reduce the negative impact PTSD has on their lives.
CPT Therapy typically involves 12 sessions, during which clients work through four main phases:
Since 2013, Dr. Riggins has helped military Veterans across the United States suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He has extensive experience with concerns related to combat, non-combat and military sexual trauma (MST). Most notably, as a former PTSD psychologist for the Department of Veteran Affairs, he has assessed, diagnosed, and treated hundreds of Veterans through the use of evidenced-based approaches.
Dr. Riggins is trained and experienced in the following treatments for PTSD:
Military trauma encompasses any traumatic experiences that service members may face during their time in the armed forces. This trauma often stems from high-stress environments, witnessing violence, losing fellow soldiers, and dealing with life-threatening situations. Additionally, military trauma can arise from MST, which refers to sexual assault or harassment experienced within military contexts.
Military trauma can have lasting effects on mental health, often leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Many veterans may also experience difficulty adjusting to civilian life, particularly in environments that don’t fully understand or acknowledge the experiences they’ve been through.
For individuals who have served in the military, trauma often comes with unique layers of guilt, shame, and a sense of responsibility. Military Trauma can include combat exposure, loss of comrades, and moral injury. CPT Therapy provides a safe space for veterans to explore these feelings, identify distorted thoughts like “I should have done more,” and reframe them into balanced perspectives. Studies consistently show the effectiveness of CPT Therapy. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that CPT Therapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms in both veterans and civilians.
For individuals who have served in the military, trauma often comes with unique layers of guilt, shame, and a sense of responsibility. Military Trauma can include combat exposure, loss of comrades, and moral injury. CPT Therapy provides a safe space for veterans to explore these feelings, identify distorted thoughts like “I should have done more,” and reframe them into balanced perspectives.
Studies consistently show the effectiveness of CPT Therapy. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that CPT Therapy significantly reduces PTSD symptoms in both veterans and civilians.
With the advent of Telehealth Therapy, CPT Therapy has become more accessible than ever. This virtual approach ensures individuals can receive high-quality care from the comfort of their own homes. Telehealth Therapy has been particularly beneficial for people in rural or underserved areas, as well as for those who face barriers like mobility issues or scheduling conflicts.
Dr. Riggins’ practice in Texas offers CPT Therapy via Telehealth, making it easier for clients to integrate treatment into their daily lives.
If you’re struggling with military trauma, Dr. Riggins provides a compassionate, evidence-based approach to healing through CPT therapy. The goal for treatment is to REDUCE symptoms, ACQUIRE skills and IMPROVE your overall quality of life!
