Watch the lecture on the iCPT app

Why We Are Developing the App

There is a growing need in Israel for trauma-focused treatment, yet the number of trained professionals is insufficient to meet demand - particularly for individuals coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To address this gap, the Trauma Recovery Center at the Hebrew University, in collaboration with SequelCare, is developing an innovative solution: the iCPT App.

The app delivers self-guided Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) - a well-established, evidence-based treatment for PTSD - through a digital platform. Users progress at their own pace while receiving support from trained therapists. Inspired by the success of online CBT treatments for depression and anxiety, the app integrates human guidance and motivational tools to address common challenges such as early dropout. 

What Makes Our App Unique

Unlike general wellness or symptom-tracking apps, iCPT offers a complete therapeutic process - from beginning to end - specifically adapted for the Israeli population and grounded in empirical evidence.

Key innovations include:

  • Short, focused sessions: Each therapeutic session is limited to approximately 250 words and lasts 3–5 minutes, supporting better processing and retention.
  • Interactive and engaging content: Each module includes questionnaires, exercises, and applied tasks to deepen understanding and build skills.
  • Habit-formation tools: Regular reminders and prompts encourage the application of strategies in daily life.
  • Integrated professional guidance: Therapists play an active role throughout the process, contributing to improved outcomes and reduced dropout.
  • Culturally adapted content: All materials are tailored to the language, values, and lived experiences of Israeli users.

The app is currently undergoing a clinical trial at Sheba Beyond, comparing its effectiveness with traditional online therapy. The trial also examines the performance of newly trained therapists relative to experienced clinicians.

Benefits and Impact

The iCPT app offers several advantages compared to traditional therapy:
Accessibility: Reaches individuals in peripheral areas and communities with limited access to care.
Engagement: Brief, interactive content supports sustained participation.
Flexibility: Users progress according to their own schedule and pace.
Behavioral implementation: Daily reminders and habit-supportive design facilitate real-life application of skills.
Cost-effectiveness: Delivers high-quality treatment at a lower cost.

While some existing PTSD apps offer tools for distress reduction, they do not replace structured therapy. In contrast, iCPT provides a full therapeutic journey, including psychoeducation, cognitive work, exposure, and emotional processing - grounded in evidence.

Our Team

Trauma Recovery Center, The Hebrew University
Led by Professor Jonathan Huppert, a clinical psychologist specializing in PTSD and internet-based CBT, the Center is a national leader in developing and disseminating evidence-based trauma treatments. The team developed a unique iCPT protocol for self-guided use, approved for national implementation in collaboration with Israel’s Ministry of Health.

SequelCare
SequelCare provides the digital infrastructure required for full integration of the app into the public health system, including progress monitoring, clinician dashboards, automated reports, and secure communication with patients and care teams.

Together, the teams are developing a digital therapy solution that is accessible, user-friendly, and clinically robust - designed to address Israel’s urgent mental health needs.

Looking Ahead

The iCPT app is designed for integration into Israel’s public health system, in collaboration with health maintenance organizations, medical centers, and public health funds. The project is supported by the Ministry of Health.

By combining digital innovation with the science of trauma treatment, iCPT holds the potential to create meaningful change for thousands of individuals. It is more than a product - it is a public health innovation.