If you are looking for a therapist, but don’t have insurance, you may be wondering, “How much is mental health therapy without insurance?” Without insurance, therapy can cost you hundreds of dollars per session. Additionally, some therapists don’t take insurance and are entirely self-pay. If you can’t afford therapy, there are still options available to you to get the mental health services you need. Here are 6 affordable alternatives if you don’t have insurance.
1. Sliding Scale Therapists
Some therapists will offer a sliding scale based on your financial situation if you don’t have insurance. These sessions can range anywhere from $30 to over $100 per session depending on your income. Fees and sliding scales vary by provider, but some therapists may offer payment flexibility. You can use sites like Psychology Today to find therapists that offer a sliding scale.
2. Online Therapists
Another option for mental health therapy without insurance is to use online platforms like BetterHelp or Open Path Therapy. These platforms usually charge a weekly or monthly fee for therapy and vary depending on how many sessions you require. Many therapy platforms also offer financial assistance if you can’t afford the fees. There are also several self-help apps that you may find beneficial like Calm that can help you with relaxation techniques, guided meditations, and more.
3. Community Clinics
Community Mental Health Centers are publicly funded clinics that often offer low-cost or free mental health services. These centers provide care to everyone regardless of your ability to pay. To find a health center near you, use the HRSA Find a Health Center Tool
4. Support Groups
Support groups are often free of charge and a wide variety of options are available based on your needs. You can find peer-led groups with national organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), and Mental Health America (MHA). Your local places of worship and community centers often host free support groups as well.
5. Hotlines
If you are in need of immediate assistance and don’t have health insurance, you can utilize free mental health hotlines. Crisis hotlines like 988 or text services like Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) provide free, confidential support 24/7.
6. Employee Assistance Programs
Your employer may provide mental health programs. These often include free, confidential counseling sessions. These sessions are usually short-term and have a limit on how many sessions you can have. If long-term therapy is required your EAP may be able to make referrals for low-cost options.
How Much Will You Pay?
In summary, how much is mental health therapy without insurance? This all depends on the provider, your finances, and the resources available to you in your community. However, there are options available to you that will fit your budget and get you the help you are seeking.
Read More
The Lazy Person’s Guide to a Wealth Creation Plan That Works
Swipe, Regret, Repeat: 6 Sneaky Ways to Outsmart Your Impulse Purchases
Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.