Richelle Sims, CSW-PIP, LICSW, CCTP
Outpatient Therapist
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Intensive EMDR Therapy (Outpatient)
Intensive EMDR therapy is a unique and transformative experience that offers a concentrated and immersive approach to addressing emotional and psychological challenges, helping you achieve remarkable results in days, not years.
During an intensive EMDR therapy session, you can expect to work closely with a trained therapist to identify and address underlying issues, develop coping strategies, and achieve lasting changes in your life.
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Intensive EMDR therapy is ideal for individuals who have experienced trauma, emotional abuse, or sexual abuse, and are looking for a safe and supportive environment to process and heal. This treatment is also beneficial for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, and are looking for a more intensive and immersive approach to therapy.
What To Expect
Your treatment begins with a personal consultation with your therapist to determine if intensive EMDR therapy is an appropriate fit for your needs. A personalized plan is developed, including the recommended length of the treatment, which can range from 3-5 days. Your therapist will meet with you for 3-6 hours per day, with breaks as needed, to work through your struggles and achieve your goals.
Throughout the treatment, you can expect to engage in various therapeutic techniques, such as EMDR, Flash, CBT, and DBT, which are designed to help you process and release negative emotions and limiting self-beliefs associated with trauma/unprocessed memories. Your therapist may also suggest activities for you to do on your own, such as journaling, meditation, or yoga, to support your healing process​
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Benefits and Cost
Intensive EMDR has shown high effectiveness, especially for individuals with PTSD and complex trauma, and it's gaining traction as a faster alternative to traditional weekly therapy.
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Key advantages of intensive EMDR include:
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Faster symptom relief due to concentrated sessions.
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Fewer interruptions in processing traumatic material.
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Greater focus and continuity, which can deepen therapeutic work.
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Standard EMDR Therapy (can be filed with insurance if in network)
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Per session: $225 for a 60 minute session.
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Typical duration: Weekly sessions over 3–6 months.
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Total estimated cost: $2,500–$5,000+ depending on the number of sessions
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Intensive EMDR Therapy (cash only)
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Per session: $250 for 3-hour blocks.
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Program packages: Offered as 3–5 day intensives, with total costs ranging from $2,250 to $7,500+.
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Which Is More Cost-Effective?
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While intensive EMDR may seem more expensive upfront, it can reduce the total number of sessions needed, potentially lowering long-term costs—especially for clients with time-sensitive needs or those traveling for treatment.
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Intensive sessions are sometimes offered during evenings, on holidays, and on weekends, helping lower the cost even further by allowing for less time away from work and other obligations.
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The cost-benefit of intensive EMDR therapy often comes down to one key tradeoff: higher upfront investment for faster, deeper healing.