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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing
Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PT) are all effective evidence-based
treatments for trauma-related disorders, but they engage different brain regions and
mechanisms in the process of healing. Each of these therapies engages different neural
pathways and mechanisms to help individuals process and heal from traumatic
experiences.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can help reduce
hyperactivity in the amygdala, which is involved in the processing of emotions and is
often overactive in individuals with PTSD, EMDR may facilitate the processing of
traumatic memories in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory formation and
contextualizing events. Lastly, EMDR helps in enhancing the connectivity and
functioning of the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in rational thinking and emotional
regulation.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) focuses on enhancing cognitive control and
regulation by engaging the prefrontal cortex, which helps in re-evaluating and
restructuring distorted thoughts related to the trauma. CPT can also improve functioning
in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC) which is involved in emotional regulation and
error detection. While not directly targeted, changes in the prefrontal cortex can help
reduce amygdala hyperactivity over time.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PT) can help in reducing amygdala hyperactivity by
habituating the patient to the trauma-related stimuli, decreasing fear responses. Like
EMDR, PT can aid in contextualizing and processing traumatic memories within the
hippocampus. PT enhances the function of the prefrontal cortex, improving emotional
regulation and executive function.