Does Kaiser Permanente cover EMDR therapy?
Yes, Kaiser Permanente covers EMDR therapy, though access depends on your region and whether you're seen within Kaiser's integrated system or by an external provider. Kaiser recognizes EMDR as an evidence-based treatment. Due to Kaiser's unique structure, accessing EMDR usually means going through Kaiser's behavioral health department, which can refer you to external specialists if internal EMDR isn't available. Note that Kaiser operates in select states and does not operate in Texas.
Kaiser EMDR coverage details
Kaiser Permanente operates differently from traditional insurers — it's an integrated health system where insurance and providers are combined. Mental health services are provided by Kaiser therapists or, if internal capacity is insufficient, through external referrals. EMDR availability within Kaiser varies by region. California, Colorado, and other Kaiser regions may have EMDR-trained therapists on staff, or may refer out.
How EMDR is billed with Kaiser
- CPT codes
- For external referrals, standard codes apply: 90834 or 90837. Kaiser's internal billing may differ but doesn't affect your coverage for EMDR when prescribed.
- Typical copay
- Kaiser mental health copays vary by plan, typically $20-40 per visit. If referred to an external EMDR specialist, your Kaiser benefits still apply — copays should be similar to internal visits.
- Prior authorization
- Kaiser operates on an internal referral model. To see an EMDR specialist (internal or external), you typically need to go through Kaiser's behavioral health department first. They assess need and make referrals.
- Session limits
- Kaiser has faced legal scrutiny over mental health access and wait times. Under settlement agreements and state regulations, Kaiser must provide timely mental health care. If they can't provide EMDR internally, they should refer you out.
Finding Kaiser-covered EMDR therapists
Kaiser's model means "in-network" is Kaiser itself. If Kaiser refers you to an external EMDR therapist, that provider becomes covered under your Kaiser benefits. The referral must come from Kaiser's behavioral health department; once you have one, Loma can help you find an EMDR-trained therapist to request as your external provider.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get EMDR through Kaiser?
- Start by contacting Kaiser's behavioral health department. Request EMDR specifically and ask about wait times. If internal wait times are long, request an external referral. California law requires timely mental health access.
- Can I see an EMDR therapist outside Kaiser?
- If Kaiser cannot provide timely EMDR internally, they may issue an external referral. In California, SB 855 requires coverage of out-of-network mental health care when in-network options are insufficient.
- Does Kaiser have EMDR-trained therapists?
- This varies by region and facility. Some Kaiser locations have EMDR-trained therapists; others don't. Ask specifically about EMDR expertise when contacting behavioral health.
- What if Kaiser denies my EMDR request?
- If Kaiser denies EMDR or external referral, you can appeal. Document wait times and request denials in writing. California and other states have mental health parity laws supporting your right to timely, appropriate care.
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.