CPT vs PE for PTSD: Which Therapy is Right for You?
Updated: July 17, 2024Treatment for PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex and debilitating condition. It affects millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, therapy has proven to be effective in treating PTSD. Two of these therapies are:
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Prolonged Exposure (PE)
Both CPT and PE aim to ease the distressing symptoms associated with PTSD. They employ distinct techniques and strategies. In this article, we'll discuss the differences and similarities between CPT and PE. It will help you better understand which approach might be the best fit for your needs.
If you live in Ontario, you can book a free consultation by clicking the button below. Our Clinical Directors can match you with a trauma expert. We can help you choose between PE and CPT.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). CPT helps to address unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that emanate from traumatic experiences. The therapy involves identifying and challenging these negative thoughts. People develop more balanced and adaptive ways of thinking. CPT consists of structured sessions where people work with a trained therapist to:
Analyze and challenge unhelpful beliefs.
Reevaluate the meaning of traumatic memories.
Develop a new story around the traumatic memory
Client Book for CPT:
Getting Unstuck from PTSD: Using Cognitive Processing Therapy to Guide Your Recover (Resick et. al, 2023)
CPT App
Blog Posts on CPT
Understanding Trauma Stuck Points
*Many of the therapists at Virtual CBT Psychotherapy are registered CPT providers. We also have several trained clinical supervisors. Book a free consultation to learn how CPT can help. Learn more about our therapy fees.
What is Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD? (Source: VA)
Prolonged Exposure (PE)
PE is another evidence-based therapy for treating PTSD. Unlike CPT, PE focuses on confronting avoided situations and memories associated with trauma. PE involves gradually facing these distressing triggers which reduces the fear and anxiety attached to them. Key components of PE include:
Imaginal Exposure: People revisit and retell the traumatic memory in a controlled environment. PE helps to desensitize emotional reactions.
In Vivo Exposure: People confront avoided situations that trigger anxiety. By doing this, it helps you to regain a sense of control.
Client Book for PE
Reclaiming Your Life After a Traumatic Experience: A Prolonged Exposure Treatment Program - Workbook (Rothbaum et al., 2019)
PE Coach App
*One of our Clinical Directors (Celissa Vipond, RSW, MSW) is a registered PE Therapist and a registered PE Consultant. Book a free consultation to learn how PE can help you overcome the aftermath of trauma.
Similarities of CPT and PE
Both therapies are CBT-based.
The American Psychological Association recommends both therapies.
The U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the U.K. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend both therapies.
Both therapies are evidence-based. This means that both have been well-researched and have proven to help reduce symptoms of PTSD.
Both therapies involve daily practice assignments.
Both approaches can be completed in 8-12 therapy sessions and 50-minute sessions.
Prolonged Exposure for PTSD (Source: VA)
Differences between CPT and PE
CPT will focus more on helping you change your thoughts by teaching you different worksheets.
In CPT, you won’t have to revisit your trauma memory in great detail.
PE is exposure-based and will help you to “process” or “digest” your trauma memory by revisiting it. PE will require you to have a clear memory of the trauma.
PE can be done in a 60 or 90-minute therapy session.
PE may require more time spent on out-of-session practice assignments.
Choosing the Right Trauma Treatment Approach
The choice between CPT and PE is a personal choice and depends on individual preferences. Some people may find CPT's focus on challenging beliefs more appealing. And others may resonate with the exposure-based approach of PE. It's important to consult with a mental health professional who can guide you in choosing the most suitable therapy.
Both CPT and PE are effective therapies for treating PTSD. Each has its unique techniques and strengths. Understanding the differences and similarities between these approaches can empower you to make an informed decision. It will also help you choose a therapy that aligns best with your journey to recovery. Remember, getting professional help can be an important first step toward healing.
Learn more about our Expert PTSD and trauma therapists in Ontario. You can also book a free consultation with one of our trauma specialists by clicking the tab below.
