Samantha Petersen, LCPC, CADC, CEDS-C
Presentation Title:
“Getting Unstuck: Using Cognitive Processing Therapy to Concurrently Treat Trauma and Eating Disorders”
Presentation Overview:
This presentation explores the critical importance of integrating evidence-based trauma treatment protocols into existing approaches for treating eating disorders (EDs). Given the high comorbidity between EDs and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traditional ED treatments may fall short without addressing underlying trauma. A key focus will be on Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a structured, evidence-based approach for treating PTSD. Participants will gain an understanding of the three major therapeutic tasks of CPT: identifying and challenging “stuck points,” restructuring trauma-related beliefs, and processing trauma narratives. Additionally, the presentation will highlight emerging research demonstrating that both PTSD and ED symptoms can be successfully treated together, emphasizing the value of integrated, trauma-informed care in improving overall treatment outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
- Attendees will be able to explain the necessity for integrating evidence-based trauma treatment protocols into existing treatment approaches for eating disorders
- Attendees will be able to list three major therapeutic tasks of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Attendees will be able to describe results indicating that both PTSD and symptoms and ED symptoms may be successfully treated together
Speaker Biography:
Sam is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and approved consultant. With over 10 years of experience in mental health, she currently serves as Regional Director at Monte Nido, where she has worked for five years. Formerly the Clinical Director, Sam now oversees programs across Illinois, St. Louis, Houston, Atlanta, and Miami for adults and adolescents in residential, PHP, and IOP levels of care. She is EMDR trained and has worked with diverse diagnoses across all levels of care. Sam is passionate about helping individuals and families live meaningful, fulfilling lives.