Finding therapy that fits your budget can be a challenge, especially if you’re seeking therapy after a recent trauma, such as losing your job, the death of a loved one, or leaving an abusive relationship. But finding help is getting easier. There are now mental health resources that are more convenient and affordable.
First, check your insurance
If you have insurance through your employer, the Health Insurance Marketplace, or Medicaid, your plan covers essential mental health services, including:
- Specific health benefits (like how much your copay or coinsurance amount will be) will depend on your state and your health plan, but you cannot be denied coverage.
Self-help books, meditation apps, and podcasts
Many self-led activities can help you improve your overall mental and physical health.
- Visit your local library or discount book store for books to help with grief, depression, and other mental health issues
- Free mental health apps for meditation, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Podcasts on mental health and recovery
Ask your therapist about sliding scale options, discounted rates, or shorter sessions
If you don’t have health insurance, you may have options
- Sliding scale options are based on your income
- You can also ask about shorter sessions (which cost less) or meet with your therapist less often
Check if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program
EAP is a free benefits plan that some employers offer. It can include counseling for personal and/or work-life stressors.
Meet with a psychologist in training
Clients shouldn’t be afraid of working with an intern or trainee.
- Interns have a lot of supervision, are very hardworking and passionate about helping their clients, have fresh and up-to-date educational training, and can often be seen for a very low cost.
Local and online support groups
Nonprofits, volunteer, and local organizations offer many free support groups for grief, trauma, and addiction recovery.
If you are religious, try talking with someone in your congregation
Financial limitations shouldn’t prevent anyone from finding help.
- Check in with your insurance company, asking for sliding-scale or reduced fees, or enlisting the help of a psychologist in training are choices that could help you fit therapy into your budget.
Community Mental Health Centers
Local community mental health centers are another good resource. They tend to be more familiar with local neighborhood issues and cultural attitudes around mental health in the communities they serve.
- They not only provide mental health assistance, but they can also reduce the stigma of mental illness.
Check out online therapy services or see if your therapist offers online sessions
Online therapy allows you to meet with your therapist over a video call or correspond through text messages. Some offer free or discounted trials to new sign-ups.
- No-cost options are available.
