EMDR vs CBT- Which One Works Best for PTSD

Let’s end the debate about EMDR vs. CBT. Many individuals may benefit from both, either in combination or one after the other. The best treatment choice is the one that fits each individual’s situation and comfort level.

Choose EMDR if your trauma feels stuck or you find it hard to talk about painful experiences that happened in the past.

Choose CBT if you are ready to get rid of negative thoughts and build coping mechanisms for everyday triggers.

Talk to a qualified therapist to find what’s right for you. Through our EMDR NJ program, connect with our licensed therapists at ChoicePoint at 844.445.2565. We offer both in-person and virtual counselling sessions.

Table of Contents

Highlights

CBT is like mental fitness training, helping you crush negative thoughts and handle triggers like a pro in the present.
EMDR therapy rewires how your brain stores trauma, no deep talking, just real healing.
Stuck in the past under the weight of a traumatic past? Go for EMDR.
If you are overwhelmed by current thoughts, choose CBT.
No one-size-fits-all, both work. The best therapy is the one you feel safe doing.

EMDR vs CBT- A Side-by-Side Analysis

Healing has many paths; choosing the right one will give the best outcomes. Take a quick look at how both EMDR and CBT work.

Factors	EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)	CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
Focus	Past trauma and unresolved memories	Present thoughts, behaviours, and daily triggers
Approach	Uses eye movements or tapping to process trauma	Uses structured talk therapy and coping techniques
Talking Required	Minimal and doesn’t need full details of the trauma	More verbal and involves discussing thoughts and feelings
Best For	Deep or complex trauma, especially when memories feel stuck	Anxiety, negative thinking, and practical daily coping
Endorsements	Highly recommended by Veterans Affairs and clinical bodies	Widely used and well-researched across mental health
What to Expect	Guided memory processing with bilateral stimulation	Learning to challenge and reframe negative thoughts

Did you know ? that EMDR is considered the most recommended treatment for people who have PTSD? According to research¹, it has a proven success rate of 50%!

EMDR vs CBT- Which One Works Best for PTSD

CBT and EMDR may work for each individual at different times and in different situations. EMDR aims to reframe negative beliefs the person may have, and CBT aims to help the person cope with feelings.

a. CBT For PTSD- How Does It Help

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often used in treating many mental health issues, including PTSD. CBT is a type of talking therapy and is mainly used to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours by diving into the many layers of the conscious mind and thought patterns. Instead of focusing on the past, CBT is used to improve how people think and feel in the present. CBT is often chosen as a treatment for PTSD because it helps people feel more in control of their emotions. Take a quick look at how CBT therapy for PTSD works:

Trauma Focused CBT Steps	What It Does	How It Helps
Trauma Education	Explains how trauma affects the mind and body.	Reduces confusion and builds understanding.
Identify Triggers/Thoughts	Spot unhelpful thoughts and trauma triggers.	Increases self-awareness and initiates healing.
Thought-Challenging	Questions about negative thinking patterns.	Builds healthier and balanced thoughts.
Relaxation Techniques	Uses breathing and calming exercises.	Lowers anxiety and improves focus.
Safe Exposure	Gradually revisits trauma memories or reminders.	Reduces avoidance and fear.
Cognitive Restructuring	Reframes beliefs about self and trauma.	Boosts self-confidence and control.
Stress & Crisis Planning	Teaches how to manage future stressors.	Prepares for challenges and prevents relapse.
Tailored Approach	CBT is adapted to the person’s needs.	Increases the effectiveness of therapy.
End Result	Combines techniques to reduce PTSD symptoms.	Improves daily life and emotional strength.

If you are looking for CBT specialists, get in touch with us today!

b. EMDR For PTSD- How Does It Help

PTSD may make people feel stuck in the past or haunted by trauma they haven’t fully processed. Flashbacks, guilt, and constant fear are all signs that the mind is still in survival mode. Without the right support, these symptoms do not just fade, and they often grow stronger over time. This is why seeking proper care from a trainee and licensed therapist is important. Take a look at how EMDR for PTSD may help.

EMDR Element	What It Does	How It Helps
Short-term therapy	Uses focused sessions over weeks	Brings faster relief
Initial consultation	Let the client share the story and goals	Builds trust and safety
Positive belief installation	Replaces negative thoughts with healthy ones	Builds confidence and clarity
Body scan	Checks for tension or physical stress	Helps release body-held trauma
Closure	Ends each session with grounding	Keeps client stable and calm
Reevaluation	Reviews progress and adjusts targets	Ensures continued healing
Weakens negative beliefs	Reduces the power of harmful thoughts	Makes trauma feel less overwhelming
Strengthens positive thinking	Adds safe, current-day information	Helps client feel safe and in control
Improves daily coping	Makes reactions to triggers less intense	Supports work, relationships, and well-being
Tracks client feedback	Uses client input to guide sessions	Shows what’s working and builds momentum
Trauma-informed care	Offers empathy and understanding	Builds trust and emotional safety

If you are looking for EMDR specialists in New Jersey, contact us today!

CBT and EMDR Therapist Near Me

Use of EMDR and CBT in Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

At ChoicePoint, we offer a dual diagnosis treatment program for people suffering from both mental health issues and addiction simultaneously. Take a look at how the EMDR Therapy NJ program will use EMDR and CBT.

EMDR for Dual Diagnosis (PTSD + Addiction)

Almost 75% of people suffering from trauma² also fall into addiction.

EMDR helps people with dual diagnosis by addressing both trauma and addiction at the same time.
During EMDR sessions, a therapist will guide individuals through 8 structured phases of therapy³.
These sessions help to reduce emotional pain tied to past events.
As trauma fades, addiction triggers lose their power. This is what makes it easier to build coping skills and stay sober long-term.

CBT for Dual Diagnosis (PTSD + Addiction)

PTSD and addiction may likely be found in people who are disturbed or afflicted with an unresolved trauma, and may use drugs or alcohol to cope. This, in turn, makes both conditions worse. When PTSD and addiction are treated together, CBT can help people feel safer, more stable, and better prepared for long-term recovery. To support people with dual diagnosis, CBT may be used in the following ways:

Both trauma and substance use are addressed at the same time
Emotional triggers are managed without using substances
Healthier habits, like CBT group activities, are used to prevent relapse
Therefore, CBT is often seen as a strong part of recovery from both PTSD and addiction.

Client Review

Check out what our client has to say about their successful EMDR session with our licensed EMDR specialist.

Initially, I did not think EMDR would work for me, but EMDR has helped me reduce the intensity of traumatic memories. Moreover, it has helped me to live with my PTSD symptoms. I was also very surprised when I found my anxiety and grief levels reduced after each session, and I would go back home feeling a lot better than before.

Insurance Coverage For EMDR and CBT at ChoicePoint

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover emdr? Most of the time, insurance providers cover CBT and EMDR. However, it is best to verify your insurance online before starting treatment. ChoicePoint accepts the following insurance and other commercial insurance programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses:

Please note this assessment is an initial self-screening, and it is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

Most People Also Ask These Questions About EMDR vs CBT

Read FAQs about EMDR vs CBT.

1. Can I Do EMDR on Myself?

It is advised not to do EMDR on yourself. Self-administered EMDR may be possible, but it is also risky. It may also trigger intense reactions or worsen already present symptoms. In some extreme cases, it may also even retraumatize you. Doing it alone may do more harm than good.

2. Will I Cry During EMDR?

Yes, you may! But this is nothing to be ashamed of. EMDR is a unique therapy that helps people heal from trauma and resolve issues.

Additional Resources

Resources

Medical Disclaimer:

ChoicePoint aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Our team of licensed medical professionals research, edit and review the content before publishing. However, this information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice please consult your physicians or ChoicePoint's qualified staff.

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Nisa Samar

BS Psychology

Medical Content Writer

Nisa Samar has a Psychology degree and brings expertise to ChoicePoint’s blogs, with over 7 years of contributing valuable insights on substance abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery. She is passionate about understanding mental health intricacies. Nisa has contributed valuable insights to various publications, addressing critical issues related to substance abuse prevention, treatment modalities, and recovery strategies.

See author's posts

Jessica Plonchak

(LCSW, MBA, LCADC)

Executive Clinical Director

Jessica Plonchak serves as Executive Clinical Director at ChoicePoint. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). With 17 years of relevant experience, she has helped several clients in their journey to recovery from addiction.

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Highlights

EMDR vs CBT- A Side-by-Side Analysis