What should I do if I think I have Borderline Personality Disorder, but I can't afford therapy? Any good online resources for free treatment?

Seeking support can be a meaningful step for some people navigating mental health concerns. There are often many factors at play when it comes to mental health challenges. If you believe you're living with a psychiatric disorder, consider consulting with a licensed healthcare provider. A mental health professional can provide screenings and determine whether further testing, a diagnosis, and treatment may be appropriate.

It may help to seek out a mental health therapist who specializes in borderline personality disorder. A type of therapy known as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) has shown effectiveness in treating borderline personality disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. When looking for a therapist, consider interviewing a few to make the best possible decision. This can help you get a feel for whether you connect, as that relationship can be an important part of therapy.

Affordable therapy for BPD is available through various means, including BetterHelp insurance options. Many BetterHelp therapists now accept insurance from certain carriers—and the average copay is around $23 for eligible members. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. You can learn more about potential coverage here.

If your carrier does not cover mental health services, BetterHelp's flexible subscription plan may still be an option, with costs typically $70 to $100 per week. Online therapy through BetterHelp can make it easier to connect with a licensed therapist from wherever you are.

Local providers may also help address your concerns. Some therapists take on pro bono (free) cases, and others offer sliding-scale pricing. It can still help to ask whether providers know of lower-cost local options. Community mental health agencies may offer low-cost or free therapy services. If you are in the US, the resource number 211 can help connect you with those options.

Frequently asked questions about BetterHelp insurance and affordable BPD therapy

Does BetterHelp take insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow.

What insurance plans are accepted on BetterHelp?

Many independent providers on BetterHelp accept insurance from major carriers, including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and several state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plans such as Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

Don't see your insurance plan? BetterHelp is working with major insurance carriers across the United States to provide affordable therapy through insurance. The flexible subscription model is also an option for receiving care through a large therapist network—subscriptions around $70-$100/week*.

*Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.

What does the average copay look like for eligible members?

Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

How can I check my in-network status with BetterHelp?

During signup, you can enter your insurance information to view available options and check in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Availability may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

What if insurance isn't available in my state?

If insurance isn't available at this time, BetterHelp's flexible subscription model—typically $70 to $100 per week—is an alternative option for accessing care.

Can I use an HSA or FSA to pay for therapy?

Many people can use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to help pay for therapy, as it's generally a qualified medical expense. Eligibility may vary, so verify with your plan administrator.

How does the subscription option compare when insurance doesn't apply?

When insurance isn't available, BetterHelp's subscription option offers another flexible way to access care from a large network of licensed therapists—typically $70 to $100 per week.

What types of therapy are typically covered by insurance?

Insurance often covers individual therapy, family and couples counseling (when deemed medically necessary), psychiatric services, and online therapy options. Please note that providers on BetterHelp do not prescribe medications.

Contact your insurance provider directly using the number on your insurance card. You can also check online member portals or ask your therapist to verify coverage.

What if I can't afford therapy at all right now?

There are still ways to find support. Many providers offer sliding-scale fees. Community mental health agencies and the 211 helpline can connect you with low-cost or free services. HSA/FSA funds may also help cover costs. BetterHelp's subscription option is another affordable path to care.