Frequently Asked Questions
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy. It was developed in the 1980’s as a form of psychotherapy for resolving the symptoms of traumatic and other disturbing life experiences. Learn more from emdria, EMDR International Association.
Is this therapy right for my symptoms?
EMDR and memory reprocessing therapy are for anyone who has experienced trauma. We will discuss with you whether EMDR is a good option, depending on your history and presentation. EMDR is intended to work on memories in the past affecting the present. As such, it is not appropriate for those currently in unsafe environments.
What is EMDR treatment like?
EMDR consists of 8 separate phases, advancing depending on your progress as we work together. Whether treatment takes place using the weekly or the intensive approach, our sessions emphasize different modalities, such as psychoeducation and insight-orientation. I also incorporate body-oriented mindfulness activities in every session.
When I begin working with you, can I receive EMDR (or other memory reprocessing therapy) right away?
The answer is YES if you mean EMDR as a comprehensive 8-phase trauma-focused therapy, and NO if you mean ‘Eye Movement (EM)’ because EM will be introduced during Phase 4: Desensitization after the first three phases are completed. EMDR therapy is tailored for each individual, which requires preparation to maximize its potential for recovery. The specific approach and time required for every phase vary from person to person, depending on many factors.
What if I have multiple events I want to try working with memory reprocessing therapy?
It is common to have multiple events that you may want to address. We will approach them carefully, in chronological order.
Do you accept remote appointments?
Yes, in most cases. Sessions can be done using our video conferencing platform, which is HIPAA-compliant, with some exceptions. Please describe your interests and needs in the contact form.
Are there treatment options for someone with vision impairment or low vision?
There are well-studied alternatives to EMDR that can create a similar stimulation required during the memory resolution session. Some examples are Progressive Counting, using tactile, handheld devices or self-tapping, or creating bilateral sounds through headphones. Additionally, some people benefit from a combination of more than one bilateral stimulation at the same time. We will work with you to find the best fit.
How often do we meet?
Weekly- for non Intensive modality. Just like getting to know someone in everyday life, building a strong therapeutic relationship takes time and is a foundation of trust, essential for our work together.
What is the “Intensive” modality?
Some of you may prefer to do trauma-focused therapy all at once rather than doing it bit by bit each week. Naturally, Intensives bring relief faster. Unlike shorter weekly therapies, which is often 45-50 minute long, at least three hours of session time is observed for Intensives. Intensives can be a half day or full day on consecutive days, depending on your needs and inclination. More about Intensives.
Can you guarantee that I will feel better after EMDR and other memory reprocessing therapies?
While many clients experience meaningful relief through EMDR and other memory reprocessing therapies, there can be no guarantee of any particular outcome or specific result, and no treatment method works for everyone. Prior to the memory reprocessing phase, EMDR therapy includes several preparatory steps, such as learning emotional regulation skills, increasing self-awareness, identifying personal triggers, and practicing adaptive coping strategies when those triggers arise, among other elements tailored to each client. Your openness to fully engage in this type of structured and experiential therapy plays an important role in your progress. Together, we work toward healing in a collaborative and sustainable ways.
How does psychotropic medication affect memory reprocessing trauma therapy?
We often work with people taking medication for mood and emotional balance. We will take a complete history and provide specialized treatment tailored to your health needs. In some instances, medications can affect EMDR treatment. In that event, we can recommend a different approach before starting intensive therapy.
What if I have already begun working with a therapist?
We often work in conjunction with your weekly therapist. Called Adjunct Therapy, this allows collaboration with specific treatment goals, especially in trauma care. You can continue working with your therapist, and we can discuss how to proceed.
Will you treat people anywhere?
At this time, we can serve people who reside in Massachusetts, California, and Japan. Please reach out for more detail from here.
Will you treat all ages?
At this time, we see people who are 18 and older.
What are your fees for therapy services?
Intake session 55-minutes: $240
Individual session 55-minutes: $190; 85-minutes $270
Couple session: $240~
Intensive Therapy
Half day (9-12 or 1-4 with one or two short breaks) $750
Full day (9-4 with two 15-minute breaks and an hour lunch) $1,450
Which insurance do you take?
At this time, we take Blue Cross Blue Shield.
If your have other insurances:
Check with your insurance policy to determine if you have Out-of-network (OON) benefits. If so, we can provide you with a monthly Superbill for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
You can also use your HSA(Health Spending Account) or FSA(Flexible Spending Account).
We can discuss if reducing the frequency of sessions or having fewer longer sessions are appropriate for your needs.