Compare Therapy Techniques

Side-by-side comparison of evidence-based therapy approaches to help you choose the right method.

Technique Effectiveness Duration Best For
CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

80-90% effective for anxiety and depression 12-20 sessions
Anxiety Depression PTSD Eating Disorders
EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

77-90% effective for PTSD treatment 6-12 sessions
PTSD Trauma Phobias Anxiety
DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

70-80% reduction in self-harm behaviors 1-2 years
BPD Self-Harm Emotional Dysregulation Eating Disorders
ACT

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

75-85% effective for anxiety and depression 12-16 sessions
Anxiety Depression Chronic Pain Substance Abuse
Psychodynamic

Psychodynamic Therapy

70-80% effective for depression and personality disorders 6 months to several years
Depression Personality Disorders Relationship Issues Identity Concerns
SFBT

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

65-75% effective for brief interventions 3-5 sessions
Relationship Issues Family Problems Goal Achievement Brief Interventions

Which technique is right for me?

The best therapy technique depends on your specific needs, preferences, and goals. Many therapists are trained in multiple approaches and will tailor their method to your situation. The therapeutic relationship — feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist — is often more important than the specific technique used.

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