A comparative exploration of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing versus cognitive behavioural therapy for post- traumatic stress disorder in Pakistan: Insights from a full- fledged randomised controlled trial

Anwar, Khan and Amalia, Madihie and Faseeh, Ullah and Omer, Abid and Khizra Hafeez, Awan (2025) A comparative exploration of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing versus cognitive behavioural therapy for post- traumatic stress disorder in Pakistan: Insights from a full- fledged randomised controlled trial. Counselling & Psychotherapy Research, 25 (1). pp. 1-15. ISSN 1746-1405

PDF Counselling and Psychotherapy Research - Anwar Amalia January 2025 BACP.pdf Download (712kB)

Abstract

Background and Aim: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)is a psychiatric disorder, triggered by traumatic events. Modern evidence-based psychotherapies,such as eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), have been widely used for the treatment of PTSD. However, limited evidence is available regarding their comparative efficacy, especially in the context of Pakistan. Given this context, a single-blinded, two-group randomised controlled trial was conducted to compare the efficacy of EMDR and CBT in treating patients with PTSD in Pakistan. Methods: A consecutive sample of 80 patients was selected. Patients were randomly allocated to EMDR and CBT in accordance with covariate-adaptive stratified randomisation. This study was carried out at two mental health rehabilitation centres in the capital city of Peshawar, Pakistan. Data on PTSD symptoms and other related aspects were collected through the Clinician- Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, non-inferiority analysis and a general linear model repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Results regarding treatment fidelity revealed that both therapies were carried out in adherence to treatment protocols. Treatment efficacy results showed that PTSD symptoms were high during the baseline stage of therapy (CAPS-5 mean score of 98.80 for EMDR and 100.50 for CBT) but decreased to low in the follow-up stage (CAPS-5 mean score of 30.20 for EMDR and 34.20 for CBT); however, overall, EMDR therapy was found to be non-inferior and more efficacious than CBT. Conclusion: The findings of this study hold significant implications at both individual and policy levels. EMDR therapy emerges as a viable alternative to CBT for the treatment of PTSD in Pakistan. Therefore, the study recommends the adoption of EMDR therapy as an effective treatment option for PTSD in Pakistan.

Actions (For repository members only: login required)

View Item