How the Trauma Has Affected Me
A cognitive processing worksheet reflecting on why the trauma happened and its effects on beliefs about self, others and the world, with key themes.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Cognitive processing
- Approach / concern
- Trauma & PTSD
- Technique
- Cognitive processing
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the How the Trauma Has Affected Me?
In cognitive approaches to PTSD, traumatic events can change core beliefs about safety, trust, power, esteem and intimacy. Writing about the meaning of the trauma helps identify ‘stuck’ beliefs for therapy.
Why it works
Cognitive processing therapy begins with an impact statement to identify trauma-related beliefs (Resick et al., 2017). The cognitive model highlights negative appraisals as maintaining PTSD (Ehlers & Clark, 2000).
When to use it
- Start of trauma-focused cognitive work
- PTSD and complex trauma
- Identifying stuck points
- Progress comparison at the end of therapy
How to use it in session
- Explain the focus on meaning.
- Write between sessions.
- Read together in session.
- Identify beliefs to target.
- Repeat at the end of therapy.
Clinician tips
- Keep the focus on beliefs, not event details.
- Normalize self-blame as common.
- Compare first and final versions to show change.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to describe the trauma?
No. The focus is on what it means to you and how it changed your beliefs.
Why write it more than once?
Comparing versions over time shows how your beliefs have shifted.
References
Resick, P. A., Monson, C. M., & Chard, K. M. (2017). Cognitive processing therapy for PTSD: A comprehensive manual. Guilford Press.
Ehlers, A., & Clark, D. M. (2000). A cognitive model of posttraumatic stress disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 38(4), 319-345.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
