Understanding Stuck Point Logs in Cognitive Processing Therapy: Format and Benefits
Understanding the Stuck Point Log in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
The *Stuck Point Log* is one of the most important tools used in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD. It helps clients identify thoughts that keep them “stuck” in trauma-related beliefs and emotional distress. By writing these stuck points down, clients learn to challenge and change unhelpful thinking patterns.
What Is a Stuck Point?
A stuck point is a rigid, unhelpful, or inaccurate belief that prevents emotional healing after trauma. These beliefs usually fall into themes like safety, trust, power, esteem, and intimacy.
Common Examples of Stuck Points
- “The trauma was my fault.”
- “I can never trust anyone again.”
- “I must be in control all the time.”
- “I am permanently damaged.”
- “If I let my guard down, something bad will happen again.”
Purpose of the Stuck Point Log
- To identify recurring negative thoughts.
- To observe how trauma affects daily thinking.
- To practice challenging unsafe or unrealistic beliefs.
- To track progress throughout therapy.
- To support worksheets like the ABC Sheet and Challenging Questions.
How to Use the Stuck Point Log
Clients record thoughts related to trauma and examine how these thoughts influence emotions and behaviours.
| Situation / Trigger | Stuck Point | Emotions | New Balanced Thought |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thinking about the accident | “I should have prevented it.” | Guilt, sadness | “I did the best I could in a scary situation.” |
| Going out alone | “The world is unsafe.” | Fear, tension | “Some places are unsafe, but not everywhere.” |
Types of Stuck Points
- Assimilation Stuck Points: Blaming yourself for the trauma. (Ex: “I should have stopped it.”)
- Accommodation Stuck Points: Overgeneralizing. (Ex: “No one can be trusted.”)
- Over-Accommodation: Assuming extreme danger. (Ex: “Everything is dangerous.”)
Case Example: Using the Stuck Point Log in CPT
Client: “M” – Survivor of Emotional Abuse
Stuck Point Identified: “I am not worthy of love.”
Trigger:
Seeing happy couples in public.
Emotional Reaction:
- Sadness
- Loneliness
- Shame
Therapist’s Guidance:
Through Socratic questioning and worksheets, M realized:
- This belief came from the abuser’s words.
- It was not based on her real value.
- Past abuse does not define her present.
Balanced Thought:
“I deserve love and respect. My past does not decide my worth.”
Result: M experienced reduced emotional pain and improved relationships.
Why the Stuck Point Log Is Effective
- Brings hidden trauma beliefs to awareness.
- Helps clients see patterns in thinking.
- Supports deeper trauma processing.
- Helps break cycles of avoidance and self-blame.
- Promotes long-term emotional recovery.
தமிழில் – Stuck Point Log என்றால் என்ன?
Trauma ஆன பிறகு மனதில் உருவாகும் தவறான நம்பிக்கைகள் “Stuck Points” என்று அழைக்கப்படுகின்றன. இவை நம்மை முன்னேற விடாமல் தடுக்கின்றன.
Stuck Point Log எப்படி உதவும்?
- நமது நினைவு முறையை புரிந்துகொள்ள உதவும்.
- தவறான நம்பிக்கைகளை மாற்ற உதவும்.
- PTSD உணர்வுகளை கட்டுப்படுத்த உதவும்.
எடுத்துக்காட்டு
Stuck Point: “எல்லோரும் எனக்கு தீங்கு செய்வார்கள்.”
New Thought: “சிலர் மட்டும் தீங்கு செய்யலாம்; எல்லோரும் அப்படியில்லை.”