How much does EMDR therapy cost?
How much does EMDR therapy cost?
$100 – $220 average cost per session
Average cost of EMDR therapy
EMDR therapy costs $100 to $220 per session on average, depending on the session length, therapist's experience and credentials, location, and insurance coverage. EMDR therapy was first developed to treat PTSD but is now used to treat other mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, phobias, and eating disorders.
| National Average Cost | $170 |
| Minimum Cost | $75 |
| Maximum Cost | $460 |
| Average Range | $100 to $220 |
What is EMDR therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions.
How does EMDR therapy work?
EMDR therapy is based on the idea that when a person experiences a traumatic event, the memory of that event may not be properly processed. This can lead to ongoing distress and negative beliefs about oneself. EMDR aims to help the brain reprocess these memories, reducing their impact and allowing the individual to develop more adaptive coping mechanisms.
How is EMDR therapy done?
EMDR therapy typically involves eight phases. Phases 1 and 2 are completed in the initial sessions, while phases 3 through 8 are repeated at each session:
History-taking
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body scan
Closure
Re-evaluation
During the core phases (4 through 7), the therapist guides the client to focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This often involves the client following the therapist's hand movements back and forth with their eyes, but it can also include other forms of bilateral stimulation like hand taps or audio tones.
Who is EMDR therapy for?
EMDR therapy was initially developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, it has since been found effective for various other conditions, including:
Anxiety
Depression
Phobias
Panic attacks
Eating disorders
Addictions
Chronic pain
EMDR can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or other distressing life events.
What affects the cost of EMDR therapy?
EMDR therapy costs are generally comparable to other psychotherapy costs, with the exact amount varying based on several factors:
Number of sessions needed: The length of treatment can vary depending on the individual's needs. Some may see improvement in just a few sessions, while others might require more extended treatment.
Session length: While most therapy sessions last about 60 minutes, EMDR sessions can sometimes be longer, affecting the cost.
Therapist's experience & credentials: More experienced therapists or those with specialized certifications typically charge higher rates.
Insurance coverage: If your insurance plan covers EMDR therapy, your out-of-pocket costs will be significantly lower.
Location: Therapy costs vary depending on the location, with higher rates usually found in urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living.
Private practice vs. clinic: Therapists in private practice may charge differently than those working in clinics or mental health centers.
EMDR therapy FAQs
Does EMDR therapy work?
Numerous studies have shown EMDR therapy to be effective, particularly for treating PTSD. The American Psychological Association (APA) has recognized EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends it for treating trauma.
EMDR is also effective in treating other conditions like depression, anxiety, phobias, and eating disorders. The effectiveness can vary from person to person, but many individuals report significant improvement in their symptoms.
What type of therapy is EMDR?
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that integrates elements from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and body-centered therapies.
Can you do EMDR therapy virtually?
Yes, you can do EMDR therapy virtually. Many therapists have adapted their practices to offer online EMDR sessions, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual EMDR can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many individuals.
However, it's important to note that online EMDR may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may prefer the in-person experience, and in certain cases (such as with complex trauma), in-person sessions might be recommended.
Does insurance cover EMDR therapy?
Insurance coverage for EMDR therapy varies depending on your specific plan and provider. Many insurance companies do cover EMDR therapy, especially when it's used to treat conditions like PTSD. However, coverage varies by plan, and you may need to meet certain criteria or obtain pre-authorization.
Even if your insurance doesn't explicitly cover EMDR, it may cover general psychotherapy sessions during which EMDR techniques are used.
Where to find EMDR therapy
When looking for EMDR therapy near you, remember it's okay to talk to multiple therapists before deciding. Trust your instincts and choose someone you feel can effectively support you on your healing journey. Follow these tips to ensure you find a qualified professional who's a good fit for your needs:
Choose a therapist with EMDR training and certification.
Read reviews of therapists on Thervo and Google.
Look for therapists who are members of the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
Confirm the therapist has experience with your specific concerns (e.g., PTSD, anxiety, depression).
Ask about their experience and success rate with similar cases.
Assess the therapist's communication style to ensure you feel comfortable and safe with them.
Ask about their fee structure and whether they accept your insurance.
Questions to ask the therapist
When considering an EMDR therapist, ask these important questions:
What is your experience and training in EMDR therapy?
Can you explain how EMDR might help with my specific concerns?
How many EMDR sessions do you typically recommend?
What can I expect during an EMDR session?
Are there any risks or side effects I should be aware of?
How will we measure progress throughout the therapy?
What is your fee per session, and do you offer any sliding scale options?
Do you accept my insurance?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.