Does Aetna cover EMDR therapy?
Yes, Aetna covers EMDR therapy as part of standard mental health benefits. EMDR is billed using standard psychotherapy CPT codes (90834, 90837) and does not require special authorization for outpatient treatment. Coverage applies to both in-person and telehealth sessions. Loma accepts Aetna and can verify your specific benefits before matching you with a therapist.
Aetna EMDR coverage details
Aetna covers EMDR under its behavioral health benefits for plan members with mental health coverage. EMDR is recognized as an evidence-based treatment for PTSD and trauma-related conditions. Coverage applies whether the diagnosis is PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other qualifying conditions. Both individual and group Aetna plans typically include EMDR coverage, though specific benefits vary by plan.
How EMDR is billed with Aetna
- CPT codes
- EMDR is billed using standard psychotherapy codes: 90834 (38-52 minute session) or 90837 (53+ minute session). There is no separate EMDR-specific code. Under current CPT guidelines, 90837 (53+ minutes) has no defined upper time limit, so 60-90 minute EMDR sessions can be billed under the same code.
- Typical copay
- Aetna copays for in-network mental health visits typically range from $20-50 per session, depending on your specific plan. Out-of-network EMDR therapy may be covered at 50-80% after deductible. Under federal parity law, mental health benefits cannot be more restrictive than comparable medical benefits — check your specific plan for how deductibles apply.
- Prior authorization
- Outpatient EMDR therapy with Aetna typically does not require prior authorization for initial sessions. Some plans may require authorization after a certain number of sessions (often 20-30). Intensive outpatient or extended sessions may require pre-approval.
- Session limits
- Most Aetna plans do not have hard session limits for outpatient mental health treatment under federal parity requirements. However, some plans may require periodic treatment reviews to continue coverage beyond initial authorizations.
Finding Aetna-covered EMDR therapists
Finding in-network EMDR specialists can be challenging — many EMDR-trained therapists don't accept insurance. Loma helps by credentialing EMDR-trained therapists with Aetna specifically, expanding the in-network options available to members.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I find an Aetna-covered EMDR therapist?
- You can search Aetna's provider directory for therapists listing EMDR, but note that not all listed therapists are EMDRIA certified. Loma verifies EMDR training and Aetna credentialing, then matches you with vetted specialists.
- Does Aetna cover telehealth EMDR?
- Yes. Aetna covers telehealth mental health services, including EMDR, at the same rates as in-person visits for most plans. Loma offers telehealth EMDR sessions with Aetna-credentialed therapists.
- What diagnosis do I need for Aetna to cover EMDR?
- EMDR is covered for various diagnoses including PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, adjustment disorders, and other trauma-related conditions. Your therapist will document the appropriate diagnosis based on your clinical presentation.
- Does Aetna limit EMDR session length?
- No. The 90837 code (53+ minutes) has no defined upper time limit, so EMDR sessions of 60-90 minutes are typically covered when billed appropriately.
Other plans: Curative · Blue Cross Blue Shield · Cigna · UnitedHealthcare · All insurance plans
Get matched with a verified, EMDR-trained therapist covered by your insurance — usually within 48 hours. In Texas? See EMDR therapy in Texas.