Find Your Best Trauma Therapy Match in 2 Minutes
Struggling to choose between EMDR and CBT for trauma recovery? This personalized assessment helps you discover which approach might work best for your specific needs and preferences.
If you rely on Medicare and need EMDR therapy for trauma or PTSD, you’re asking the right question: does Medicare cover it?
You’re not alone. Thousands of Medicare beneficiaries seek trauma treatment every year. Many don’t know if their benefits will cover the cost of EMDR therapy sessions.
The good news? Yes, Medicare Part B covers EMDR therapy when medically necessary. You’ll typically pay 20% coinsurance after your deductible.
But here’s what Medicare doesn’t tell you: finding a qualified EMDR therapist who accepts Medicare can be incredibly challenging. Many experienced therapists don’t take insurance anymore. Session limits, paperwork delays, and network restrictions can stand between you and healing.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what Medicare covers for EMDR therapy. We’ll break down the real costs you’ll pay. You’ll discover why private-pay options might actually save you money while giving you better care. We’ll show you how to access quality EMDR therapy for as little as $35 per session, even without using Medicare.
By the end, you’ll understand all your options for getting the trauma treatment you deserve. Let’s start with the basics of Medicare coverage.
Does Medicare Cover EMDR Therapy? Here’s What You Need to Know
Yes, Medicare covers EMDR therapy. Medicare Part B includes coverage for outpatient mental health services, which encompasses EMDR therapy sessions.
However, understanding the details helps you make informed decisions about your care. Let’s break down exactly how Medicare coverage works for EMDR therapy.
Yes, Medicare Part B Covers EMDR Therapy Sessions
Medicare Part B is your primary coverage for EMDR therapy. Part B covers outpatient mental health services when provided by qualified mental health professionals.
According to Medicare.gov, you’ll pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each therapy session. This applies after you meet your annual Part B deductible.
The treatment must be deemed medically necessary by a licensed provider. Your therapist needs to document why EMDR therapy is appropriate for your specific mental health condition.
Medicare covers EMDR therapy when provided by clinical psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants working in mental health.
What EMDR Therapy Is and Why Medicare Recognizes It
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a specialized type of psychotherapy that helps people heal from trauma and distressing life experiences.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation. This means guided eye movements or taps while you recall traumatic memories. The process helps your brain reprocess these memories in a less distressing way.
The American Psychological Association recognizes EMDR as an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related conditions. This recognition is why Medicare covers it as a legitimate mental health treatment.
EMDR therapy effectively treats several mental health conditions:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Complex trauma from abuse or assault
- Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
- Depression related to traumatic experiences
- Grief and loss that feels overwhelming
Research shows EMDR often works faster than traditional therapy. Many people experience significant relief after just 8 to 12 sessions.
How Much EMDR Therapy Costs with Medicare Coverage
Let’s talk real numbers. Understanding your actual costs helps you budget for treatment.
In 2025, the Medicare Part B deductible is $240. You must pay this amount first before Medicare begins covering services.
After meeting your deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for each EMDR therapy session. Your therapist cannot charge you more than this approved amount if they accept Medicare assignment.
Here’s a real example of what you’ll pay:
Let’s say your EMDR therapist charges $150 per session. Medicare approves $140 as the payment amount. After meeting your deductible, you’ll pay 20% of $140, which equals $28 per session.
Most people complete EMDR treatment in 8 to 12 sessions. At $28 per session, your total out-of-pocket cost would be approximately $224 to $336. Add your $240 deductible, and you’re looking at $464 to $576 total for complete treatment.
That’s if you can find a therapist who accepts Medicare. More on that challenge in a moment.
Medicare Advantage Plans and EMDR Coverage
Medicare Advantage plans must cover everything Original Medicare covers. This means all Medicare Advantage plans cover EMDR therapy as an outpatient mental health service.
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer different cost structures than Original Medicare. Some have lower copays, such as a flat $20 or $30 per therapy session instead of 20% coinsurance.
However, Medicare Advantage plans come with significant restrictions:
- You must use in-network providers only
- Prior authorization is often required before starting therapy
- Network availability varies greatly by location
- Switching therapists may require additional approvals
Check with your specific Medicare Advantage plan about their mental health coverage. Ask about network requirements and pre-authorization needs before scheduling your first appointment.
Does Medicare Cover Online EMDR Therapy?
Yes, Medicare covers online EMDR therapy sessions through telehealth. The coverage is exactly the same as for in-person visits.
Medicare significantly expanded telehealth coverage for mental health services in recent years. These changes made virtual mental health care more accessible to beneficiaries nationwide.
Online EMDR therapy offers several practical advantages:
- No transportation needed for people with mobility challenges
- Access to specialized EMDR therapists regardless of your location
- Greater scheduling flexibility with evening and weekend options
- Comfort and privacy of healing in your own home
The technology works well for EMDR. Your therapist can guide eye movements using on-screen prompts or audio tones. Research shows bilateral stimulation is just as effective online as in person.
Now that you understand what Medicare covers, let’s talk about the real-world challenges of actually using this coverage.
The Hidden Challenges of Using Medicare for EMDR Therapy
Medicare coverage sounds great on paper. But the reality of finding and accessing care can be frustrating.
Many Medicare beneficiaries discover that having coverage doesn’t guarantee they can find quality care. Let’s explore the challenges you might face.
Finding an EMDR Therapist Who Accepts Medicare Is Difficult
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: many experienced EMDR therapists don’t accept Medicare anymore.
Why? Low reimbursement rates make it difficult for private practice therapists to sustain their businesses. The administrative burden of Medicare paperwork takes time away from patient care. Payment delays can last weeks or months.
According to recent surveys, fewer than 40% of psychiatrists accept Medicare. The percentage is even lower for specialized therapists who provide EMDR.
This means you’re competing for limited appointment slots. Wait times of 2 to 6 months are common in most areas. Some regions have no Medicare-accepting EMDR therapists at all.
You might find a therapist who accepts Medicare, only to discover they’re not accepting new patients. Or their next available appointment is four months away. When you’re struggling with trauma, waiting that long feels impossible.
Medicare Limits Your Freedom to Choose Your Therapist
With Medicare, you’re restricted to providers who participate in the Medicare program. This severely limits your options.
You can’t choose based on specialization, therapeutic approach, or personal fit. You’re limited to whoever happens to accept Medicare in your area.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial for EMDR success. Research shows that the quality of your connection with your therapist matters more than the specific techniques they use.
Finding the right therapist means finding someone who truly understands your specific type of trauma. It means working with someone whose personality and communication style work for you. It means having a therapist with specialized training in the areas you need.
Medicare networks don’t care about any of that. They only care if the provider has a Medicare contract.
Prior Authorization and Documentation Requirements
Medicare Advantage plans often require prior authorization before you can start EMDR therapy. This means your treatment can’t begin until an insurance company approves it.
The approval process takes time. You submit paperwork, wait for review, and hope for approval. Meanwhile, your symptoms continue.
Even with Original Medicare, your therapist must document medical necessity for ongoing sessions. They’re required to show the insurance company that you still need treatment. This creates pressure to demonstrate “progress” on the insurance company’s timeline, not your healing timeline.
Your diagnosis goes on your permanent medical record. This can affect future life insurance applications, security clearances, and disability claims. Many people prefer to keep their mental health treatment completely private.
Session Limitations and Treatment Restrictions
While Medicare doesn’t have hard session limits, providers must continually justify medical necessity. This creates artificial pressure around treatment duration.
Insurance-driven treatment timelines don’t always match your actual healing needs. EMDR works best when you can process trauma at your own pace without arbitrary deadlines.
Some people need 8 sessions. Others benefit from 20 or more. Your healing journey is unique. Insurance companies want everyone to fit the same mold.
The constant need to justify continued treatment adds stress to an already difficult process. You might feel rushed or pressured to claim you’re “better” before you actually are.
What Medicare Doesn’t Cover
Medicare coverage has gaps you should know about:
- Couples therapy or family therapy (unless focused on individual treatment)
- Wellness coaching or preventive mental health services
- Services from out-of-network providers (with most Medicare Advantage plans)
- Costs above Medicare-approved amounts (if your provider doesn’t accept assignment)
If you see an out-of-network EMDR therapist with Medicare Advantage, you might pay the full cost yourself. That defeats the purpose of having insurance.
Now let’s explore why private-pay EMDR therapy might actually be the better choice, even if you have Medicare.
Private-Pay EMDR Therapy: Better Care, More Affordable Than You’d Expect
What if you could access quality EMDR therapy for less money than your Medicare copays? What if you could choose your therapist based on expertise and fit rather than insurance networks?
That’s exactly what private-pay therapy offers. Let’s break down why this option deserves serious consideration.
The Surprising Benefits of Private-Pay Mental Health Care
Private-pay therapy means you pay your therapist directly without involving insurance. This simple change transforms your entire treatment experience.
Here’s what you gain with private-pay EMDR therapy:
Freedom to choose the best therapist for YOUR needs. Browse therapist profiles. Read about their specializations. Choose based on who you connect with, not who’s in a network.
Complete confidentiality. No diagnosis required in your medical records. What you discuss stays between you and your therapist. No insurance company reporting requirements.
No session limits. Heal on your timeline, not an insurance company’s schedule. Take as many or as few sessions as you need.
Faster access to care. No prior authorization delays. Most private-pay practices get you started within days or weeks instead of months.
Customized treatment approaches. Your therapist can integrate multiple therapy modalities without worrying about billing codes. They focus on what works for you.
Better therapeutic outcomes. When treatment isn’t rushed by insurance restrictions, healing goes deeper. Your therapist has time to address root causes instead of just symptoms.
“But I Thought Medicare Would Be Cheaper?” Here’s the Math
Let’s compare actual costs. The numbers might surprise you.
Medicare route (typical costs):
- Annual Part B deductible: $240
- 20% copay per session: $24-40
- Average 12 sessions × $30 copay = $360
- Total: $600 (if you can find a Medicare provider)
- Wait time: 2-6 months
- Limited to Medicare-participating therapists
The Empowering Space private-pay route:
- MSW intern sessions: $35 per session
- Average 12 sessions × $35 = $420
- Total: $420 (no deductible)
- Wait time: 1-2 weeks
- Choose from all available therapists based on your needs
The private-pay option with our intern program actually costs $180 less than using Medicare. Plus you avoid the deductible, skip the wait times, and get to choose your therapist.
Even our licensed clinician rates at $100-120 per session remain competitive. After considering Medicare’s hassles and limitations, many people find the value is worth paying slightly more for complete freedom and faster access.
Quality Care Doesn’t Require Insurance: Meet Our Affordable Options
At The Empowering Space, we believe cost should never prevent someone from accessing mental health care. That’s why we offer multiple affordable options.
MSW Intern Sessions Starting at $35
Our Master of Social Work (MSW) interns are graduate-level therapists completing their clinical training. They provide the same evidence-based EMDR therapy you’d receive from any qualified provider.
Every intern works under direct supervision from licensed clinical experts (LCSWs and LMFTs). This means you get two therapists for the price of one. Your intern provides your sessions, while their supervisor ensures you receive the highest quality care.
Our interns are compassionate, skilled, and dedicated. Many clients specifically request intern therapists because they bring fresh energy and current research to their practice. They have time to focus deeply on your healing journey.
At $35 per session, this is the most affordable quality EMDR therapy you’ll find anywhere. It costs less than most Medicare copays.
Sliding Scale Options Available
We understand that everyone’s financial situation is different. We’re willing to work with you to find a rate you can afford.
Have a conversation with us about your budget. We want to help you access the care you need. Mental health treatment should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income.
Licensed Clinician Options
Prefer to work with a fully licensed, experienced EMDR therapist? We offer that too. Our licensed clinicians bring years of specialized trauma expertise to your treatment.
Their rates remain competitive and transparent. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying with no surprise bills or confusing insurance statements.
Browse our therapist profiles to find the right match for your needs.
Why The Empowering Space Is Your Best Choice for EMDR Therapy
Let’s talk about what makes our practice different. It’s not just about cost. It’s about giving you the freedom to heal on your terms.
Choose Your Therapist Based on What Actually Matters
When you visit our website, you can browse detailed profiles of all our therapists. You’ll see their specializations clearly listed. You can read about their approach to therapy, their training background, and what types of trauma they work with most.
Find someone who specializes in YOUR specific challenges:
- Sexual trauma and assault recovery
- Military and veteran PTSD
- Childhood abuse and neglect
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Religious trauma
- Relationship trauma and betrayal
Consider personality, communication style, and therapeutic approach. Some people connect better with direct communicators. Others prefer a gentler approach. You get to decide what works for you.
No insurance network tells you who you can see. You choose based on who feels right. Meet our therapists and find your best match.
Online EMDR Therapy That Fits Your Life
We provide all our EMDR therapy sessions through secure telehealth video. This means you can access quality trauma treatment from anywhere in Texas or Ohio.
Online therapy removes common barriers to care:
- No transportation needed (especially helpful for those with anxiety about driving)
- No time wasted traveling to appointments
- Access care from rural areas with limited local options
- Schedule sessions during lunch breaks or after work
- Receive treatment in the comfort and safety of your home
Our HIPAA-compliant video platform ensures your privacy and security. The technology is simple to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Research confirms that online EMDR therapy is just as effective as in-person treatment. The bilateral stimulation works perfectly through visual or audio prompts on your screen.
Transparent Pricing with No Insurance Surprises
One of the most frustrating aspects of using insurance is not knowing what you’ll actually pay. Explanation of benefits statements arrive weeks later with unexpected charges.
We eliminate that stress completely. You know your costs upfront. Our intern sessions cost $35. Licensed clinician sessions have clear, posted rates. No hidden fees. No surprise bills months later.
We keep a credit card on file and charge it after each completed session. You receive a receipt immediately. Simple, transparent, and straightforward.
You can use Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), or Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) to pay for sessions. These pre-tax accounts make therapy even more affordable.
Want to submit for out-of-network reimbursement? We provide detailed superbills with all the information your insurance company needs. Some clients receive partial reimbursement even though we don’t accept insurance directly.
Visit our pricing and insurance page for complete details.
Complete Confidentiality and Privacy
Your mental health information is deeply personal. With private-pay therapy, you control who knows about your treatment.
No insurance diagnosis is required on your permanent medical record. This protects you from potential consequences down the road. Life insurance applications, security clearances, and disability claims can all be affected by mental health diagnoses in your medical history.
What you discuss in therapy stays between you and your therapist. Period. No insurance company requires reports on your progress. No claims reviewer reads summaries of your sessions.
This complete privacy gives you freedom to explore difficult topics without worry. You can be fully honest about your experiences and feelings. That honesty is essential for EMDR therapy to work effectively.
We Make It Easy to Get Started
Starting therapy shouldn’t be complicated. We’ve streamlined the process to get you into care quickly.
Our caring administrative team responds quickly to inquiries. We’ll answer your questions about our services, help you choose a therapist, and get you scheduled.
Most new clients start therapy within 1-2 weeks of their first contact with us. Compare that to the 2-6 month wait for Medicare-accepting providers.
Ready to begin your healing journey?
Book a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and get started. Or browse our therapist profiles to find your best match right now.
Other Ways to Access EMDR Therapy if You Prefer Using Medicare
We understand some people strongly prefer to use their Medicare benefits. That’s completely valid. Here are tips for navigating Medicare coverage if you choose that route.
How to Find EMDR Therapists Who Accept Medicare
Finding Medicare-accepting EMDR therapists requires persistence and patience.
Start with the Medicare.gov provider search tool. Search for mental health providers in your area. Filter by those accepting Medicare assignment.
Use Psychology Today’s therapist directory. Filter by insurance accepted and look for Medicare. Call therapists directly to verify they’re currently accepting new Medicare patients.
Ask specifically about their EMDR training and experience. Not all therapists who accept Medicare are trained in EMDR therapy.
Be prepared for long waitlists. Don’t be discouraged if the first several providers you call aren’t accepting new patients. Keep trying.
Questions to Ask Medicare-Participating Therapists
When you find a potential therapist, ask these important questions:
- Do you currently accept Medicare assignment?
- Are you accepting new Medicare patients right now?
- What’s your current wait time for new patients?
- Are you specifically trained in EMDR therapy?
- How many EMDR sessions do you typically recommend?
- Will you file Medicare claims directly, or do I need to file?
- Do you require prior authorization before starting treatment?
- What’s the Medicare-approved amount you charge per session?
- What will my 20% copay be per session?
- Are there any additional fees I should know about?
Get clear answers before committing. This prevents surprises later.
Using Medicare Advantage Plans for EMDR
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your process looks different from Original Medicare.
Check your plan’s provider directory for in-network mental health professionals. Call your insurance company to ask specifically about EMDR therapy coverage.
Understand prior authorization requirements. Some plans require approval before your first session. Others allow a certain number of sessions before requiring authorization.
Ask about copay amounts. These vary significantly between Medicare Advantage plans. Some charge $10 per session, others charge $50 or more.
Verify any session limits or restrictions. Some plans cap mental health visits per year.
Combining Medicare with Supplemental Coverage
Medigap supplemental insurance plans can cover your 20% coinsurance for therapy sessions. This means you’d pay nothing out of pocket after meeting your deductible.
Plans G and N are popular choices for comprehensive coverage including mental health services. These plans fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage.
However, supplemental insurance doesn’t solve the provider availability problem. You’re still limited to therapists who accept Medicare. You still face the same long wait times and limited choices.
Out-of-Network Reimbursement Options
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer out-of-network benefits. This means you can see any therapist you choose and submit claims for partial reimbursement.
Reimbursement rates typically range from 50-80% of charges after you meet a higher deductible. You pay upfront and wait for reimbursement, which can take weeks or months.
This option gives you more freedom in choosing your therapist. However, it involves more paperwork and upfront costs.
The Empowering Space provides detailed superbills for clients who want to pursue out-of-network reimbursement. We include all the codes and information your insurance company requires.
Medicare vs Medicaid vs Private Insurance: How EMDR Coverage Compares
Understanding how different insurance types handle EMDR coverage gives you helpful context.
Does Medicaid Cover EMDR Therapy?
Yes, Medicaid covers EMDR therapy in most states. Coverage details vary significantly by state.
Texas Medicaid covers outpatient mental health services including EMDR therapy. Ohio Medicaid also covers EMDR when provided by qualified mental health professionals.
Medicaid often has better provider availability than Medicare. Many therapists accept Medicaid because reimbursement rates are sometimes higher than Medicare.
However, Medicaid still limits you to participating providers. You face the same network restrictions as Medicare.
Blue Cross Blue Shield EMDR Coverage
Most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans cover EMDR therapy as a mental health service. Coverage specifics vary by state and individual plan.
BCBS typically requires you to use in-network providers. Out-of-network coverage may exist but with higher copays and deductibles.
Private insurance through employers often provides better access than Medicare. More therapists accept commercial insurance than government insurance.
Why More People Are Choosing Private-Pay Despite Having Insurance
There’s a growing trend away from insurance-based therapy. More people choose private-pay mental health care even when they have insurance coverage.
Why? People value therapist choice and treatment flexibility more than saving a few dollars. They’re frustrated with insurance bureaucracy and limitations.
Many people want complete privacy. They don’t want mental health diagnoses following them through life.
Research shows better therapeutic outcomes when treatment isn’t constrained by insurance requirements. Therapists can focus fully on client needs rather than satisfying insurance company requirements.
The slight cost difference feels worth it for dramatically better care quality and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Coverage for EMDR Therapy
Is EMDR therapy covered by Medicare?
Yes, Medicare Part B covers EMDR therapy when it’s medically necessary. You’ll pay 20% coinsurance after meeting your annual $240 deductible. The therapy must be provided by a qualified mental health professional who accepts Medicare.
How much does EMDR therapy cost with Medicare?
With Medicare Part B, you typically pay $24-40 per session after meeting your $240 deductible. Total treatment costs average $464-576 for 8-12 sessions. However, this assumes you can find a Medicare-accepting EMDR therapist, which can be challenging.
Does The Empowering Space accept Medicare?
No, we are a private-pay practice. This allows you to choose your therapist based on expertise and fit rather than insurance networks. Our MSW intern sessions start at just $35 per session, which often costs less than Medicare copays. We provide superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Why don’t you take Medicare if it covers EMDR?
Private-pay allows us to focus completely on your needs rather than insurance paperwork. You get no session limits, no prior authorization delays, and complete confidentiality. You choose therapists based on their specialization and approach, not just who accepts Medicare. Our affordable rates through our intern program make quality care accessible without insurance.
Can I use Medicare at The Empowering Space?
We don’t directly accept Medicare, but we can provide detailed superbills for out-of-network reimbursement if your plan offers that benefit. Many clients find our private-pay rates more affordable and valuable than dealing with Medicare restrictions. Learn more about our pricing.
How do your $35 intern sessions compare to Medicare?
Medicare costs total $464-576 for typical treatment ($240 deductible plus copays). Our intern sessions cost $420 total for 12 sessions with no deductible. You save money AND get to choose your therapist without network restrictions. Plus you avoid months-long wait times for Medicare providers.
Does Medicare cover online EMDR therapy?
Yes, Medicare covers telehealth for mental health services including EMDR therapy. You pay the same 20% copay as you would for in-person sessions. This applies to both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
What mental health conditions does Medicare cover EMDR for?
Medicare covers EMDR therapy for PTSD, trauma, anxiety disorders, and depression when deemed medically necessary. Your therapist must document why EMDR is appropriate for your specific condition. The treatment must address a diagnosed mental health condition.
How many EMDR sessions will Medicare pay for?
Medicare doesn’t have a set session limit for EMDR therapy. Coverage is based on medical necessity. Your therapist must justify why continued treatment is necessary. Most people complete EMDR in 8-12 sessions, though some need more or fewer.
Can I afford EMDR therapy without using Medicare?
Yes! Our intern sessions start at $35 per session. We also offer sliding scale options for those who need additional financial assistance. Many clients find private-pay more affordable than Medicare once you factor in deductibles, copays, and wait times. View our pricing options.
Do I need a referral for EMDR therapy with Medicare?
With Original Medicare, you don’t need a referral to see a mental health provider for EMDR therapy. However, Medicare Advantage plans often require a referral from your primary care physician before starting treatment.
What’s the difference between Medicare Part A and Part B for mental health?
Medicare Part B covers outpatient therapy services including EMDR therapy sessions. Part A only covers inpatient psychiatric hospitalization for severe mental health crises. EMDR is an outpatient treatment, so it falls under Part B coverage.
Does Medicare Advantage cover EMDR differently?
All Medicare Advantage plans must cover what Original Medicare covers. However, they may have different copay structures, network restrictions, and prior authorization requirements. Check your specific plan’s mental health benefits before starting treatment.
Can veterans use Medicare for EMDR therapy?
Yes, if you’re enrolled in Medicare. Many veterans have both Medicare and VA healthcare benefits. You can choose to use either system for EMDR therapy. The VA also offers EMDR therapy for PTSD through their programs.
Will my Medicare diagnosis affect me later?
Yes, mental health diagnoses submitted to Medicare become part of your permanent medical record. This can potentially affect future life insurance applications, security clearances, and disability claims. Private-pay therapy offers more complete privacy since no diagnosis is required in your medical records.
How do I find an EMDR therapist who accepts Medicare?
Use the Medicare.gov provider search tool or Psychology Today’s directory filtered by insurance. Call therapists directly to verify they’re accepting new Medicare patients. Expect limited availability and possible wait times of 2-6 months in many areas.
What if I can’t afford therapy even with Medicare?
Our $35 MSW intern sessions cost less than most Medicare copays. We also offer sliding scale options based on your financial situation. You can use HSA or FSA accounts to pay for sessions. Contact us to discuss affordable options.
Does Medicare cover couples therapy with EMDR?
Medicare only covers individual therapy sessions. Couples therapy or family therapy isn’t covered unless the sessions focus specifically on one person’s individual mental health treatment.
Can I switch from a Medicare therapist to private-pay?
Absolutely. You can choose to stop using insurance and start private-pay therapy at any time. Many clients discover they prefer the flexibility and quality of private-pay care. Book a consultation to explore your options.
How do I get started at The Empowering Space?
Browse our therapist profiles to find your best match. Book a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions. Or review our pricing and payment options to understand costs. We’ll get you started within 1-2 weeks.
Your Path to Healing: Medicare or Private-Pay EMDR?
Let’s review what we’ve covered about Medicare coverage for EMDR therapy.
Yes, Medicare Part B covers EMDR therapy for PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression. You’ll pay 20% coinsurance after your $240 deductible. Total costs typically range from $464-576 for complete treatment.
However, finding a Medicare-accepting EMDR therapist is challenging. Long wait times, limited provider networks, and prior authorization requirements create significant barriers to care.
The better path for many people is private-pay EMDR therapy at The Empowering Space.
Our MSW intern sessions cost just $35 per session. That’s actually less than most Medicare copays. You get high-quality, supervised care at the most affordable rate available anywhere.
You choose your therapist based on their expertise and specialization in YOUR specific type of trauma. No insurance network tells you who you can see. You start treatment within 1-2 weeks instead of waiting months.
You maintain complete privacy with no diagnoses required in your medical records. Your treatment continues as long as you need it without session limits or insurance justifications.
You deserve access to effective trauma treatment with a therapist who truly understands your needs. You shouldn’t have to settle for whoever accepts your insurance or wait months for an appointment.
Mental health care should be both affordable and personalized. At The Empowering Space, we make that possible.
Key Takeaways:
- Medicare covers EMDR therapy, but significant limitations exist
- Private-pay offers more freedom and often costs less
- Our intern program makes quality EMDR therapy affordable for everyone at $35/session
- Choose your therapist based on fit and expertise, not insurance networks
- Start healing within 1-2 weeks instead of waiting months
Ready to Start Your EMDR Therapy Journey Without Insurance Hassles?
You have options. You don’t have to accept the limitations of Medicare networks or wait months for care.
✅ Browse Our Therapists – Find your perfect match based on specialization, approach, and personality. Each therapist profile shows their expertise areas and therapeutic style. Meet our team.
✅ Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation – Ask questions about our services, discuss your needs, and learn which therapist might be your best fit. No pressure, just helpful information. Schedule now.
✅ Learn About Our Affordable Options – MSW intern sessions from $35 per session. Sliding scale available. Transparent pricing with no surprise bills. View pricing details.
Still have questions about Medicare coverage or our private-pay options?
We’re here to help you understand all your choices for accessing quality EMDR therapy. Contact us at our contact page or call to speak with our caring administrative team.
Your healing journey starts with choosing the right path for you. We’re honored to be part of that journey.
Find Your Best Trauma Therapy Match in 2 Minutes
Struggling to choose between EMDR and CBT for trauma recovery? This personalized assessment helps you discover which approach might work best for your specific needs and preferences.




