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?

Please note that there can be no guarantee of any particular outcome or specific result from this treatment, and no treatment method will always work. Trained therapists facilitate the healing of trauma with EMDR (and other available memory reprocessing therapy) as a tool, and you are the one doing the hard work. Your motivation and willingness to work with the structure of therapy are critical to achieving your therapy goals.

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.

How much will it cost to pay myself? [Private Pay]

Our fees for short-term consultations are $200 per 50-minute session.

For therapy intensives, prices are as follows:

• Half day (9-12 pm or 1-4 pm with one short break): $600
• Full day (9-4 with 1-hour lunch and short breaks as needed): $1,200

The specific approach and time required for every phase vary from person to person and depend on many factors. We can work together to figure out what makes the most sense for you. We accept payment via cash, check, debit or credit card, HSA, or FSA card via IVY Pay.

Which insurance do you take?

We are taking Blue Cross Blue Shield, private pay clients, and clients whose insurance can be billed out-of-network. Intensives are not covered by insurance. Insurance companies will often cover one hour per day, and clients will be responsible for the remaining costs.

If you receive Out-of-network (OON) benefits from your insurance coverage, we can offer a receipt with appropriate details for you to request reimbursement from your insurance carrier if applicable.

To find out your coverage, you can ask your provider the following questions:

• Does my plan include out-of-network mental health benefits, and do I need preauthorization to access those benefits?
• What is the out-of-network deductible under my plan, and has a part or all of it been satisfied?
• What percentage of the cost of treatment will be my responsibility once my deductible has been met?
• Is there a limit to the number of sessions my plan will cover?

Will you treat people anywhere?

At this time, we can serve people who reside in Massachusetts and Vermont (telehealth only). Please reach out for more detail from here.

Will you treat all ages?

At this time, we see people who are 18 and older.