If you’ve been researching EMDR therapy, you may have noticed that it often costs more than standard talking therapy. This can feel confusing at first — especially if you’re comparing prices or trying to understand what’s included. The truth is that EMDR is a highly specialised therapy, and the cost reflects the level of training, supervision, and clinical expertise required to deliver it safely and effectively.
For many people, EMDR can be a powerful and efficient form of therapy. When the conditions are right, it can help you process traumatic or overwhelming experiences in a way that talking alone sometimes can’t. In that sense, EMDR is not just a cost — it’s an investment in your long‑term wellbeing.
How much does EMDR cost in South Manchester?
Here in South Manchester, EMDR sessions typically range from £80 to £120 per session (correct as of March 2026). This variation is influenced by several factors, including:
- Whether the therapist is a counsellor, psychotherapist, or psychologist
- Their level of EMDR training and accreditation
- Whether they are an accredited EMDR practitioner or working towards accreditation
Psychologists and accredited EMDR practitioners usually sit at the higher end of this range because of the additional education and training involved.
If you’re comparing therapists, it can be helpful to look beyond price alone. I’ve written more about this in my guides on choosing the right therapist and what EMDR accreditation means, which explain how to assess training, experience, and fit.
Why EMDR costs more than standard therapy
EMDR therapists undergo extensive training beyond their core professional qualification, which is reflected in the cost of therapy. This includes:
- Accredited EMDR training delivered over multiple intensive days
- Ongoing supervision with an EMDR‑approved consultant
- Regular CPD to stay up to date with best practice
- Additional training for complex trauma, dissociation, or physical health conditions
This level of specialist training ensures EMDR is delivered safely and effectively — and it’s one of the main reasons the cost is higher than general therapy.
Is EMDR worth the investment?
While EMDR may feel like a significant financial commitment, many people describe it as life‑changing. By processing the experiences that keep you stuck — whether trauma, health‑related distress, or long‑standing patterns — you’re investing in:
- Better emotional regulation
- Decreased emotional reaction to triggers, which can have significant impacts on your day to day life and relationships
- Greater confidence and self‑trust
- A feeling of having processed traumatic or difficult experiences
For many clients, the benefits extend far beyond the therapy room.
Final thoughts
EMDR is a specialist therapy that requires significant training, planning, and clinical skill — and the cost reflects that. But in the right circumstances, it can be a highly effective approach that helps people move forward in ways they didn’t think possible.
If you’d like to understand whether EMDR might be suitable for you, read my EMDR guide for clients. You can also read client testimonials on my website to see how others have found the process.