Does Anthem cover EMDR therapy?
Yes, Anthem covers EMDR therapy under behavioral health benefits. Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield plans recognize EMDR as evidence-based psychotherapy for trauma and related conditions. Standard CPT codes apply (90834, 90837). Loma is not yet in-network with Anthem; we can verify your benefits and walk you through your options.
Anthem EMDR coverage details
Anthem operates as Anthem Blue Cross in California and Anthem BCBS in other states (Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Virginia, Wisconsin). All Anthem plans include mental health coverage with EMDR as a recognized treatment. Anthem's behavioral health is managed in-house or through partnerships depending on the state.
How EMDR is billed with Anthem
- CPT codes
- EMDR uses standard billing: 90834 (38-52 min) or 90837 (53+ min). Anthem follows standard psychotherapy coding with no EMDR-specific requirements. Extended sessions bill under 90837 per CMS guidelines.
- Typical copay
- Anthem copays vary by plan and state. Typical in-network mental health copays range from $25-50. Anthem PPO plans offer out-of-network benefits, while HMO plans require in-network providers only.
- Prior authorization
- Outpatient EMDR does not typically require prior authorization with Anthem. Some employer plans may have different requirements. Intensive programs usually require pre-approval.
- Session limits
- Anthem does not impose hard session limits for outpatient therapy under mental health parity. Periodic reviews may be required for extended treatment.
Finding Anthem-covered EMDR therapists
Anthem's network varies significantly by state. California's Anthem Blue Cross network differs from Anthem BCBS in other states. Loma is not yet in-network with Anthem as our panels expand; we can verify your benefits and discuss options.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Anthem the same as Blue Cross Blue Shield?
- Anthem is a BCBS licensee in 14 states. If your card says "Anthem" or "Anthem BCBS," you have an Anthem plan. In California, it's called Anthem Blue Cross (without the Shield). Benefits and networks are specific to Anthem.
- Does Anthem cover EMDR in California?
- Yes. Anthem Blue Cross of California covers EMDR under its behavioral health benefits. California also has strong mental health parity laws that support coverage.
- Can I see an out-of-state Anthem EMDR therapist via telehealth?
- This depends on your plan type and the therapist's licensing. Anthem PPO plans may cover out-of-network telehealth, but the therapist must be licensed in your state. Loma ensures proper licensing for telehealth matches.
- Does Anthem Medicaid cover EMDR?
- Anthem manages Medicaid plans in several states, and coverage varies. Many Anthem Medicaid plans cover EMDR, especially for PTSD. Loma can verify Medicaid EMDR coverage for your state.
Other plans: Curative · Aetna · Blue Cross Blue Shield · Cigna · 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.