Last updated: March 2026

How Much Does EMDR Therapy Cost?

Without Insurance
$100 – $300
Average: $200
With Insurance
$20 – $75
Average: $48
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Cost Breakdown by Type

Type / Procedure Without Insurance With Insurance
EMDR Session (60-90 min) $100 – $300 $20 – $75
Initial Assessment $150 – $350 $25 – $75
Intensive EMDR (3-hour block) $300 – $600 $60 – $150

CPT/ADA Code: 90837

What Affects the Cost

  • Provider credentials and experience
  • In-person vs. telehealth sessions
  • Session length (30, 45, or 60 minutes)
  • In-network vs. out-of-network
  • Geographic location (major cities cost more)
  • Type of therapy or treatment approach

Insurance Coverage

Typical coverage: Covered as mental health treatment; copay $20-$75

Under the ACA and Mental Health Parity Act, insurance must cover mental health treatment at the same level as physical health. In-network copays are $20-$75 per session. Out-of-network providers may be reimbursed at 50-70%. Many plans now cover telehealth therapy at $0 copay.

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How to Save Money

  • Online therapy platforms (BetterHelp, Talkspace) cost $60-$100/session
  • Open Path Collective: $30-$80/session ($65 lifetime membership)
  • Sliding-scale therapists adjust fees based on income
  • University training clinics offer $10-$30/session
  • Community mental health centers provide low-cost services
  • Ask about out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance

Related Procedures & Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — EMDR is covered as psychotherapy under mental health benefits. Same copay as regular therapy ($20-$75 in-network).

Typically 6-12 sessions for single-incident trauma. Complex PTSD may require more. Many people see improvement in 3-6 sessions.

Yes — WHO and APA recognize EMDR as effective for PTSD and trauma. Research shows it works as well as prolonged exposure therapy, often in fewer sessions.

Disclaimer: Costs shown are estimates based on national averages and may vary by location, provider, and insurance plan. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider and insurance company for exact costs. Read full disclaimer.
Sources: FAIR Health Consumer, Healthcare Bluebook, CMS Medicare Fee Schedules, GoodRx, and published clinical pricing data. Last updated: 2026-03-15.