A Helpful Guide To Affordable Therapy Options
- For those experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988
- For those experiencing abuse, please contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- For those experiencing substance use, please contact SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357
Whether you’re living with a mental health condition or simply want to invest in your well-being and overall health, therapy can be a powerful form of self-care for people of all backgrounds.
If you’re looking for something affordable, though, the costs of counseling — not to mention the hassle of getting to an office — might prevent you from seeking the help you deserve. For some people, a lack of adequate mental health benefits through insurance can lead to expensive out-of-pocket payments. Others may struggle to afford traditional counseling, even with mental health coverage.
If you’d like to work with a mental health professional but you’re concerned about the cost, you have options for affordable counseling. In fact, in many cases, it’s possible to find free or discounted counseling. This article showcases affordable therapy options and budget-friendly counseling so that you can implement quality mental health care into your self-care routine.
Finding affordable therapy
Even if your finances are limited, it may be possible for you to find a professional therapist through online therapy platforms or in-person therapy options while avoiding financial burden. If you’re searching for an affordable therapist, these five suggestions can get you started. Keep in mind that the process of finding a therapist can be individualized; you can adjust or skip these tips based on your personal preferences and circumstances.
If you have health insurance, you may want to call your insurance provider to ask about mental health care coverage under your plan. They may be able to provide a list of in-network therapists who accept your insurance, so that you’re only responsible for a co-pay. People with co-pay plans may pay around $15 to $45 per session.
2. Ask about sliding-scale therapy
For patients without insurance, sliding-scale providers can be an alternative. A sliding scale is a range of out-of-pocket fees that mental healthcare providers are willing to accept based on the patient’s ability to pay. In consideration of your financial circumstances, these providers may reduce the therapy cost.
In many cases, group sessions can be less expensive than individual therapy, and researchers have also found that group and individual therapies are similarly effective. Depending on your personality and goals, you might even prefer the unique benefits of group sessions, which might include a sense of community, the opportunity to listen to others, and reassurance that you’re not alone.
If you’re currently working with a therapist, they might be able to direct you to an online or in-person support group based on your health history, personal beliefs, and treatment goals. In your local area, faith-based institutions and community centers may offer specialized support groups.
Some support groups may not technically qualify as “group therapy” since they’re not always led by a licensed therapist. Regardless of their technical definition, these groups can provide meaningful insight and social connection.
5. Look for affordable online therapy
Not everyone has the time or financial resources for traditional, in-person counseling. Additionally, many people struggle to afford traditional counseling. Affordable online platforms like Open Path Psychotherapy Collective and BetterHelp can connect you to thousands of mental health professionals who believe in the power of high-quality and available therapy. Online therapy services also allow you to work with your licensed mental health professional from home.
Because the licensed therapists who work through these platforms don’t have to pay for office space or other forms of overhead, online therapy costs are often lower than they are with traditional counseling. It is important to note that medication management and diagnoses are not available through many online therapy services.
Other affordable options
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 74174.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ helpline): 1-866-488-7386.
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use Helpline): 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237.
When you call or text these organizations, you can speak to highly trained and compassionate individuals without the need for health insurance. Sometimes, they have personal experience with the concerns you’re facing and can guide you toward the next steps for treatment or support. However, it is important to note that these representatives are often unable to offer medical advice.
BetterHelp therapist review
Professional mental health services should be available, affordable, and convenient — and these therapy options and online resources are working to make this vision a reality. With BetterHelp and other online platforms like Open Path Collective, affordable counseling or therapy is within reach.
As you begin your search to find a therapist, keep this guide handy. Regardless of your motivation for therapy, you deserve a compassionate, experienced professional who will honor your financial circumstances and mental health goals.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about affordable therapy
What type of therapy is most affordable?
The most cost-effective therapy will vary depending on your budget and where you live in the world. In regions where the cost of living is lower, you may find that in-person therapy is affordable enough for your budget.
In general, however, the most cost-effective therapies are usually group therapy and online therapy via BetterHelp and other platforms. If you have health insurance, the costs of mental healthcare could be even lower.
If you don’t prefer to seek affordable online therapy, many therapists and counselors offer sliding scale fee options for those who don’t have insurance. In these cases, therapists will consider your finances and offer a lower-end fee if you’re unable to afford the full price of therapy sessions.
In the U.S., the cost of a typical therapy session ranges widely. According to Forbes Health, the cost of therapy in the U.S. is $100 to $200 per session on average without insurance.
People with health insurance may have a co-pay plan. Under this plan, patients pay a set fee or co-pay every session, ranging from approximately $15 to $45.
One of the most budget-friendly online therapy options is BetterHelp, a platform with thousands of accredited mental health professionals. BetterHelp costs $65 to $90 per week and can match patients to online therapists in as little as 48 hours.
Another option is Regain, an online therapy service that specializes in marriage and relationship counseling. This service may appeal to romantic partners or individuals who are navigating relationship obstacles. Like BetterHelp, Regain costs $65 to $90 per session and focuses on providing professional couples therapy online.
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