The Struggle Is Real: An Explanation For Why It's So Hard to Find an EMDR Therapist Who Takes Insurance
You’ve been searching for weeks…maybe months. Calls to your insurance company, endless scrolling through online therapist directories, the hope, and the constant disappointment. It feels like a never-ending loop, and you’re starting to lose patience. The thing is, you’re not just looking for a therapist; you’re looking for an EMDR therapist, one who takes your insurance. It shouldn't be this hard, right?
As it turns out, you’re not alone. Many people seeking this specialized treatment face a similar uphill battle. But why is it so difficult to find in-network EMDR therapy? Let's dive in and unpack this frustrating puzzle.
First, insurance woes – limitations on sessions and treatment. Insurance companies, bless their bureaucratic souls, love to control things. They often have limits on how many therapy sessions you can have in a year and restrictions on the specific techniques used. It makes sense; they're trying to control costs. The problem? EMDR therapy can sometimes require longer session times or more frequent sessions in a shorter amount of time than traditional talk therapy. As a result, insurance limits might interfere with a therapist's professional judgment on how to best care for your unique therapeutic goals for treatment.
Additionally, not all insurance companies are equally up-to-date on the latest in mental health treatment. While the American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, understanding within the insurance industry can lag behind. [Source: Is EMDR Therapy Covered by Insurance?] This means that even if your plan covers psychotherapy, they might not explicitly recognize EMDR as a standard therapy treatment.
Second, therapist autonomy – more control over healing plans. Many EMDR therapists opt out of insurance networks to maintain their independence. Why? Insurance rules and regulations can feel restrictive. By not being tied down, therapists have more control over the treatment process and how they structure their therapy practice. This flexibility allows them to truly tailor your EMDR therapy journey to your unique needs while also remaining in integrity and alignment with their own needs. By not cooperating with insurance companies, therapists can adjust treatment plans as needed without worrying about insurance limitations, restrictions, monetary penalization and other roadblocks.
Third, the therapist's bottom line – fair compensation. Let's talk about money, honey! Insurance reimbursement rates for therapists are often far lower than other healthcare professionals with similar education. These rates don't always reflect the time, energy, and specialized training that goes into being a therapist, let alone an EMDR therapist. Many therapists who choose to remain in-network with insurance companies may do so because they want to, but in some cases they may feel they have to to keep up with business expenses, referrals and income security. According to LinkedIn, the average private practice therapist earns just over $45,000 annually, which is 26% below the national average salary. This financial strain can lead to mental exhaustion, worry, and clinical burnout, all of which may negatively impact therapists' clinical outcomes. Finding a well-compensated therapist benefits you as a client and ensures that therapists, like everyone else, can thrive rather than just survive.
The Emotional Toll: Added Stress to an Already Burdensome Situation
The search for an in-network EMDR therapist isn't merely inconvenient; it's emotionally draining. After mustering the courage to finally seek help, the insurance hoops become another obstacle to overcome. Dealing with bureaucracy and limitations can make an already vulnerable time feel even more overwhelming. So, what are the options?
Ask about "Out-of-Network" Benefits. Your insurance might offer partial coverage for therapy outside their network. It's always worth investigating!
Negotiate Sliding Scale Fees. Many private practice EMDR therapists offer sliding-scale options to make treatment accessible.
Explore Alternatives. EMDR-focused clinics or EMDR therapists in training might offer more affordable options.
A Note of Hope and Resilience
Finding affordable mental health care shouldn't be a scavenger hunt. But even as you get frustrated with the system, you should remind yourself why you’re on this journey. You’re seeking EMDR to heal from past traumas, to rewrite patterns that no longer serve you, to find peace. Sometimes, reminding ourselves of your why and who will be helped by you going on this therapeutic journey can help to anchor you in your purpose as you courageously move forward. I hope you can tap into your relentless perseverance, knowing that the right therapist is out there for you. Your healing is worth fighting for!
If the struggle to find an affordable EMDR therapist is adding to the stress and frustration of seeking help, don't give up. You deserve to access the specialized care you desire. As an EMDR therapist, I understand the unique challenges and offer a safe, judgment-free space to work through them. If you're ready to prioritize your mental health and explore a more accessible path to healing, and you’re living in California or Texas, I invite you to schedule a free consultation call with me today. Let's talk about how I can support you on this journey.
