A Comparative Analysis of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy in Treating Comorbid PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder

Abstract

This study examines the efficacy of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) versus Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in treating individuals with comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Employing a randomized controlled trial, participants were allocated to one of two interventions. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline, mid-treatment, and post-treatment. Preliminary findings suggest DBT's superiority in emotional regulation and distress tolerance, while CPT effectively targeted trauma-related cognitions. This research underscores the necessity of tailored interventions in complex comorbid cases, advocating for a hybrid approach. Continued exploration in larger cohorts is recommended to validate these findings and refine therapeutic strategies.