Is Free Counseling Right For You? Find Online Therapy
- 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-HELP (4357)
Many individuals experience moments where they desire extra care, support, understanding, help, and guidance in their mental health journey—and sometimes, that involves seeking the assistance of a mental health professional or free psychologist.
Whether looking to navigate a challenging transition or gain more clarity on goals and dreams, counseling can be a valuable way to receive mental health care service and guidance. However, many individuals face financial barriers to treatment and may feel they cannot reach out to mental health care providers due to the cost of a counseling service.
In these cases, seeking an affordable mental health care treatment option or no-cost services can be beneficial. Read on to learn more about support options you have if you are experiencing routine needs, a crisis, or need to find further urgent support (such as you would in the case of suicide-related thoughts).
Understanding the brain and mental illness
Mental health generally refers to an individual's psychological, emotional, and social well-being—and many people work on achieving wellness throughout their lives. Common mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can affect how someone perceives themselves and the world around them.
Learning about the signs and symptoms of these conditions can help you to better identify them in yourself or your loved ones.
Mental illness and health care for disorders
- Changes in mood
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty focusing or remembering information
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty managing emotions
- Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Frequent episodes of fear or worry
Recognizing that mental health conditions can be treatable can show the potential importance of early mental health care, intervention, and treatment. The availability of quality mental healthcare can make significant differences in helping individuals cope, manage, and recover from these conditions and other symptoms or concerns—such as substance use disorder (once known as substance abuse).
Deciding to seek counseling help may benefit you and help you maintain a good mental health state. If you are putting off mental health care or treatment services due to cost, know that affordable, free, or low-cost counseling services are available.Types of affordable or free mental health services
Community clinics and non-profit organizations
Many cities offer low-cost counseling sessions through local clinics or non-profit organizations—and can support niche conditions or concerns (such as those associated with substance use, once known as substance abuse, and mental health overall).
Sliding scale fees
Some mental health care providers, such as counselors and therapists, may offer a sliding scale fee structure that allows you to pay according to your financial capabilities. A sliding scale fee can help and benefit those who struggle to afford full-price counseling sessions but can pay lower amounts.
Insurance coverage for free mental health services
Many health insurance providers offer coverage for mental health counseling in specific cases, such as if you’re experiencing the effects of stress, abuse, and mental health conditions overall. You can check with your mental health provider to understand what service is covered and any additional fees or co-pays you may be responsible for.
In addition, Medicaid and Medicare provide coverage for mental health services, including counseling, in most states. Check with your state's Medicaid program to understand what service is covered in your area.Telehealth treatment
Faith-based organizations
Government-funded resources
Common barriers to receiving free mental health services
Mental health studies indicate that rural areas are underserved and often lack specialized mental health care. As a result, rural residents may be less likely to seek treatment or find the peer support they need. Additionally, patients in rural communities may struggle with transportation issues or not have the resources for treatment, such as money or the Internet.
Is free counseling right for you: Free mental health services in minority populations
Ethnic and racial minorities also face gaps in mental healthcare. Research shows that minority populations can be less likely to receive an appropriate mental health care service and often face unique socio-economic challenges. Language barriers and lack of cultural understanding may impede getting quality mental health services.
Reducing the common stigma with mental health disorders
- Educating: Educating yourself on mental illness can help you and others learn what is accurate and what is not accurate information about mental health conditions.
- Leading by example: Showing support for those facing challenges or listening to them without judgment can help reduce the effects of mental health stigma as it can create an environment where everyone can address their mental health issues with positivity and support.
- Encouraging open dialogue: Talking about mental health issues openly to reduce the shame surrounding you can help in reducing the effects of mental health stigma because it can help normalize discussions around mental health issues. This open dialogue can even encourage others to seek mental health services or help when experiencing mental health challenges.
- Supporting research: Supporting organizations that reduce stigma in your local community is one way you can help normalize discussions around mental health care. The result of research conducted related to psychological illness or conditions can be a great help in treating people who are suffering from mental health challenges and can also increase public awareness about a particular mental health condition.
Beyond counseling: other ways to care for your overall wellbeing
Self-care
Self-compassion
Self-compassion might also help you feel more aware of your thoughts and behaviors, recognizing when you might benefit from seeking additional support or taking a break. Self-care, for example, can mean taking a step back and allowing yourself to listen to your body and mind.
Affordable online therapy sessions and health care with a therapist
Online counseling sessions may be an affordable option if you are seeking help with managing your mental health. Online mental health services can offer the same quality of care you receive in person but with added convenience and reachability. Licensed mental health professionals or counselors can help you identify symptoms, create a personalized wellness plan, and provide care for your concerns. You can choose between phone, video, and live chat sessions to get the help of an online counselor for whatever challenges you may be facing.
In addition, clinical research shows that recent advances in technologies and techniques have opened new pathways to quality mental healthcare and can be as effective as in-person live sessions. Cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched forms of psychotherapy.
CBT can be effective in managing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and stress-related disorders.
CBT can help you gain insight into your thoughts and feelings that might be influencing your behavior or emotions. By exploring these patterns, you can take steps toward making positive changes in your health. If you're interested in signing up for an affordable counselor from $65 to $90 a session, consider a platform like BetterHelp, which offers over 30,000 licensed and vetted providers offering unique, compassionate services to communities worldwide.Takeaway
Although there can be barriers to treatment for some individuals, several low-cost counselor options are available throughout the US, including online therapy, local clinics, and government insurance plans. If unsure where to start, consider reaching out to a service provider for an initial consultation, further help, and advice.
Where can I talk to someone for free about my bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions?
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, there are many free resources you can access for help or assistance. Some of these services include:
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
NAMI Teen and Young Adult Helpline
Veterans Crisis Line
Disaster Distress Helpline
Is there a free chatting app for mental health services?
Yes. There may be free apps that offer mental health care services. Before using these services, it could be beneficial to check for the credentials of the people you’re chatting with via text message. If you’re in emotional distress, it may be best to talk to a trained crisis counselor, licensed counselor, or social worker.
Who can I talk to online about my problems for free?
If you need psychological help or need to talk to someone about your problems but feel you can’t afford a mental health care service, it may be helpful to talk to trusted friends or family members. You can also search for free or low-cost mental health care and resources online or visit your local health department.
Can I talk to a counselor for free?
Yes. If you need help or support, some websites can help you talk to a crisis counselor or licensed counselor for free or at a low-cost psychological service. For ongoing support, check for the proper credentials and background to ensure you receive quality care from these services.
Is there a way to talk to a therapist for free via online therapy?
Yes. There may be many ways you can talk to a counselor online free of charge. Some websites and apps may offer free or low-cost care. You can also look into services that reimburse the cost of mental health care, including insurance and employer reimbursement programs.
Is there a free online emotional support chat?
Yes. There are many free programs and hotlines that offer emotional support chat. Some of these may include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the Substance Abuse Service Helpline, and the Crisis Text Line.
How do you get counseling for mental health disorders if you can't afford it?
There are many different ways to find counseling for mental disorders, even if you can’t afford care. If you have a primary care provider, you can ask them for help or referrals for free mental health care services. If you’re a student, you can check with your school’s health center for services and resources. If you’re experiencing a suicidal crisis, dial 988 for free crisis counseling.
Are there free online therapy sessions for mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and others?
Some providers and programs may offer free consultations for mental illness, which is included with their service. Checking with your local health department or searching for free or low-cost care online may help you find the care you’re looking for.
Do I need counseling or therapy sessions with a therapist for mental health care?
Counseling and therapy are similar to mental health care services, and sometimes, the terms are used interchangeably. The primary difference may be in the length and scope of treatment. Counseling tends to be a short-term process for a temporary issue. There are different types of counseling, including family counseling, group counseling, and even suicide prevention counseling. On the other hand, therapy is a more extensive process for individuals and families. It is designed to help people with more complex issues, such as mental health and substance use disorders.
Where can I get credit counseling?
Credit counseling is different from mental health counseling, and it involves financial health. You can search online for various credit counseling companies and resources.
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