Considerations for Spiritually Integrated Cognitive Processing Therapy (SICPT) for PTSD and Posttraumatic Growth in Survivors of Interpersonal Trauma.

Abstract

Traumatic events profoundly disrupt individuals' psychological, physical, social, and spiritual well-being; yet, they may also lead to posttraumatic growth (PTG). Spirituality has been shown to play a central role in how trauma survivors find meaning, cope, and rebuild their lives. However, most evidence-based interventions (EBIs) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including cognitive processing therapy (CPT), often neglect spiritual and religious (RS) dimensions, limiting their relevance for spiritually oriented clients. The aim of this paper is to present a rationale for integrating spirituality into CPT. Specifically, the paper explores spiritually integrated cognitive processing therapy (SICPT), a modification of CPT that incorporates RS meaning making, belief reappraisal, and spirituality practices as coping strategies. There is support in literature for a more spiritually integrative approach to address trauma-related symptoms, reconstruct core beliefs, and foster conditions that can promote PTG in diverse populations impacted by interpersonal trauma. Therefore, this spiritually integrated model seeks to alleviate trauma symptoms while supporting survivors in rebuilding coherent worldviews that fosters PTG. Also, the paper discusses limitations in current research and calls for more rigorous studies on SICPT for PTSD and PTG and advocates for spiritually integrated trauma care that reflects clients' holistic needs and enhances both recovery and long-term growth.