Is EMDR Covered by Insurance? What Portland Metro Clients Should Know

When you’re carrying trauma, anxiety, or memories that feel too close, reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. And for many people in our local Portland metro communities — from Milwaukie and Sellwood to Portland, Lake Oswego, and even Vancouver — the first question that often shapes whether EMDR feels accessible is:

“Is EMDR covered by my insurance?”

The short answer is yes.

In nearly all cases, EMDR therapy is covered, including Oregon Health Plan (OHP) and most major commercial insurance plans.

Here’s why EMDR is covered, which plans WWC accepts, and what you can expect as you begin the process.

Why EMDR Is Covered by Insurance

EMDR is recognized as a first-line, evidence-based treatment for trauma by major organizations such as the World Health Organization, EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), the American Psychological Association, and the VA/DoD. Because of this, insurance companies treat EMDR the same way they cover CBT, DBT, or other standard therapy approaches.

At WWC, EMDR therapy is provided by Registered Associates and Licensed Therapists, in compliance with insurer coverage requirements.

Why Training Matters: WWC’s Partnership with Coast to Coast EMDR

The effectiveness and safety of EMDR rely heavily on proper training. WWC therapists receive comprehensive EMDR training and ongoing consultation through Coast to Coast EMDR and EMDR Trainer Roxanne Grobbel, JD, LCSW, RPT-S, ensuring that:

• EMDRIA-approved, standardized protocols are followed.
• Care is trauma-informed and grounded in safety and stability.
• Therapists are equipped to work with a variety of issues, including complex trauma.
• Both in-person and online EMDR therapy trainings meet the highest clinical standards.
  

This depth of training supports strong clinical outcomes — and the medical necessity insurers rely on when approving treatment.

“EMDR is most effective when delivered by clinicians who follow standardized protocols with well-prepared clients and receive ongoing consultation,” says Roxanne Grobbel, JD, LCSW, RPT-S. “Willamette Wellness Center’s commitment to high-quality EMDR training ensures clients receive safe, evidence-based trauma therapy grounded in current research.”

Which Insurance Plans Cover EMDR Therapy at Willamette Wellness Center?

Once clients learn that EMDR is usually covered, the next question is usually:

“Does my specific insurance plan cover EMDR?”

At WWC, the answer is almost always yes.

Here are the insurance plans WWC works with that cover EMDR

Oregon Health Plan (OHP) / Medicaid

WWC is in-network with:

• OHP Open Card
  
• Health Share
  
• Jackson Care Connect
  
• Columbia Pacific
  
• Trillium
  
• PacificSource Community Solutions
  

Commercial Plans

Most WWC EMDR therapists are in-network with:

• Kaiser of Oregon (not Kaiser WA)
  
• Providence
  
• Regence BlueCross BlueShield
  
• Aetna
  
• MODA
  
• Optum / UnitedHealthcare
  

Because EMDR is an evidence-based trauma treatment, these plans typically cover it when it’s clinically appropriate for PTSD, anxiety, panic, childhood trauma, and related conditions.

How Do I Know If My Insurance Covers EMDR?

You don’t need to call your insurance company or navigate complicated benefit language. WWC verifies your coverage once you complete the new client form. We confirm what your plan includes, outline deductibles and copays, and answer any questions before you begin therapy.

You can focus on healing—we’ll handle the insurance.

Does Insurance Cover Online EMDR Therapy?

Yes — online EMDR is covered just like in-person EMDR.

Whether you’re in Portland, Milwaukie, Vancouver, or anywhere else in Oregon or Washington, online EMDR is a fully covered option when clinically appropriate. WWC uses secure EMDR platforms such as RemoteEMDR, Horizon EMDR, and Easy EMDR to deliver online sessions safely and effectively.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic or overwhelming memories so they no longer feel as intense or disruptive. You don’t need to retell your story over and over. Instead, the therapist guides you through a structured process that uses bilateral stimulation — such as moving visual cues, alternating tones, or gentle tapping — to support the brain’s natural healing mechanisms.

The approach is based on extensive research, grounded, paced around your comfort, and effective in both in-person and online sessions.

How Do I Get Started?

Starting EMDR at WWC is simple. Here’s what it looks like:

1. Complete the new client form.
2. We’ll verify your insurance coverage and explain your benefits
3. You’re matched with an EMDRIA-trained EMDR therapist
4. You choose online or in-person sessions in our Milwaukie clinic
   

From there, you can begin a safe, trauma-informed healing process with a team that guides you step by step.

You don’t have to navigate insurance or next steps alone — we’re here to make getting started feel clear, manageable, and supported from the very beginning.