EMDR Therapy – Pittsburgh Therapy Group

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is a highly effective therapy that helps individuals process and heal from events that are causing them distress. EMDR has proven to be effective for helping individuals reduce triggers and trauma related symptoms, as well as reduce symptoms associated with many other conditions.

How EMDR Works

EMDR provides relief of current symptoms by helping you reprocess maladaptively stored, inadequately processed memories which are fueling your current issue. So basically, whatever is coming up for you now, likely originated from a past event that you were unable to process at the time. You do not need to know what that event was. I have a process for that!

Treatment Planning/Memory Mapping: In the treatment planning phase, I’ll ask about your current symptoms. I use a technique to find the other memories, in that memory network, that are still causing you distress. These are the maladaptively stored, inadequately processed memories we will work on resolving.
Preparation/Resourcing Phase: We will spend several sessions teaching skills that will help you cope with difficult emotions during the EMDR process.
EMDR Reprocessing Phase: First, we will activate the memory with a series of questions. Next, we will use multiple forms of bilateral stimulation (back and for eye movements, self tapping, auditory stimulation) while having you focus on the memory. Multiple forms of bilateral stimulation will tax the working memory which will degrade the memory and reduce the emotional intensity. The negative emotions and bodily sensations will no longer trigger you in the same way.
Changing Negative Beliefs: These memories often cause negative beliefs about oneself, such as “I’m not safe,” “I’m not good enough,” or “There’s something wrong with me.” EMDR helps replace these beliefs with healthier, more adaptive ones, improving self-esteem and confidence.
Symptom reduction: As the memories we work on get re-filed, they are different now. The symptoms they were fueling are no longer as intense. You feel calmer. You have a different perspective, and usually more self-compassion.

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Testimonial

When I first met Jaymee in 2022, I felt like a walking disaster—hopeless, overwhelmed, and carrying way too much emotional baggage. I’d heard about EMDR and was cautiously curious, but I had no idea just how much it would change my life. Thanks to Jaymee’s compassionate guidance, effective methods, and genuine passion for her work, I’ve found healing in ways I never thought possible. My relationships are stronger, I’m not constantly on edge, and I no longer wake up dreading the day ahead. If therapy were a superpower, Jaymee would be a full-fledged hero. I’m forever grateful for the life-changing work she does.

~Grateful client – Pittsburgh, Pa

Traditional Sessions vs Intensive Sessions?

The main difference between the Traditional Sessions and Intensive Sessions are the length of the sessions, duration of treatment, scope of work, and cost.

In the traditional format, we would meet weekly or biweekly, indefinitely, or until you have resolved the issues that you came to work on. These sessions are usually 50 minutes long and can be billed to insurance, if I am an in-network provider. In traditional therapy, the focus is more broad and treatment can last for years.

With Intensive Therapy the goal is more specific. We meet for several hours at one time over 1-3 days. Intensives provide rapid healing of specific things and are not covered by insurance.

MEETING FREQUENCY OPTIONS

Traditional EMDR Therapy

Length: 50 minutes – weekly/biweekly
Duration: Long-term
Focus: Broad
Benefit: Depth of work
Cost: Covered by insurance if you have BCBS

Extended Session

Length: 90 minutes – weekly/biweekly
Duration: Short-term or long-term
Focus: Broad or specific
Benefit: Depth of work & rapid relief
Cost: Not covered by insurance. Request pricing. Payment plans avail.

Intensive Session

Length: 3 or + hours over 1 – 3 days
Duration: Short-term
Focus: Specific
Benefit: Rapid relief
Cost: Not covered by insurance. Request pricing. Payment plans avail.

FAQs

Can I see you for EMDR even if I already have a therapist?

Yes! Adjunct Therapy is when a person has a primary talk therapist already, and wants to see me for EMDR to work on specific triggers, traumas, experiences, etc. You can continue to work with your primary therapist, allowing us to focus on specific EMDR goals. This type of therapy can be delivered weekly or every other week for 53 or 90 minutes, or if you want to get the work done even quicker, Intensive Therapy is an option too.

How long does EMDR take?

It varies depending on the individual, the individual’s goals, and the complexity and the length of the trauma. It can take anywhere from days to weeks to years depending on the goals of the client and the meeting frequency. Generally, the more often you meet, the better, or the longer you meet at one time, the faster the results.

Does insurance cover EMDR?

I accept BCBS and UPMC Insurance. They will cover a 60 minute intake and weeklyEMDR Sessions. Other insurers whom I am not in network with might remember you for a portion of your out of pocket expense, but it is your responsibility to know your benefits and coverage details.

Insurance will generally not reimburse anything more than 53 minutes.

How Much Does EMDR Cost?

If you are insured with BCBS or EMDR, your out of pocket cost will be your deductible or co-insurance. It is your responsibility to read your schedule of benefits.

If you are not using insurance and would like to self pay, my rate is $150/hr.

Learn More About EMDR Therapy

Have Questions? Just Ask!

Whether you’re navigating the effects of trauma, exploring EMDR therapy for the first time, or simply unsure where to begin, I’m here to help. Reaching out is the first step toward healing.

Contact Pittsburgh Therapy Group