How to Pay for Therapy: Costs, Options, and Ways to Make it Affordable

You decide to reach out for help and find a therapist. You find one that seems like a great fit, only to find out they don't take your insurance. It feels like they are charging an arm and a leg.

Maybe you're in a season where you don't have insurance, and your finances are limited. Or, they do take your insurance, but you're still confused about how much you'll end up paying.

Whichever spot you find yourself in, we are here to provide a little guidance and show you the right path for your situation.

In this article:

• Why does therapy cost so much?

• Paying for therapy with insurance

• Getting reimbursed for therapy

• How to make paying out of pocket more affordable

• Summary

Why does therapy cost so much?

I've been there. I was in college and without a car, but I needed more help than the therapists at my university counseling center could give. There was only one therapist within biking distance that felt like a good fit, but she didn't take my insurance. I was astounded at the price she charged per hour.

Now, as a student studying to become a therapist, I look at the loans I've taken out and realize the cost of the training therapists go through to provide their services.

Here are a few of the costs that a therapist may encounter that go into the fee they charge:

• Education/loans

• Licensure

• Extra training

• Office rent

• Various insurances

• Administrative employees

• Marketing

Still, just knowing those things doesn't make it affordable for everyone to pay out of pocket. Let's discuss what it looks like to use a variety of methods to lower the cost.

Paying for Therapy with Insurance

At The Center for Restored and Connected Families, we are in-network with Aetna and Cigna/Evernorth. If you have a copay with your plan, therapy is typically charged at the same price as a visit to your primary care doctor. Please confirm with your insurance provider for the most accurate estimate of your costs.

Getting Reimbursed for Therapy

If we don't accept your insurance, your insurance company may still reimburse you (usually for PPO plans). Try this out-of-network reimbursement calculator to see how much you could get back! Always call your insurance provider if you have any specific questions.

How to Make Paying Out of Pocket More Affordable

When insurance and reimbursement are not an option, there are still other ways to make out-of-pocket costs more affordable.

Family and Friends

Oftentimes, family and friends are willing to assist with the costs of therapy. Still, individuals hesitate to reach out because of the vulnerable nature of disclosing that they are going to therapy. The best approach is to be honest and direct about your story and why you need help. Please don't hesitate to request a free consultation with a therapist, which can include family members.

Church

Some of the most common third parties willing to help with the cost of therapy are churches and religious organizations. Many have a benevolence fund or something similar to provide financial support to congregants and even community members.

Employer

Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs and will provide a limited number of sessions free of charge to employees. Reach out to your employer to confirm the details of this benefit.

Local Universities

If you live near a university, check their website to see if they have a counseling center that offers services to community members! Many times, they offer free or low-fee sessions with their graduate student trainee therapists.

Group Therapy

Group therapy can be just as or more effective than individual therapy, and is typically much more affordable. Many people feel a sense of solidarity with their peers when they realize they are not alone. Try finding a group tailored to your needs with this online tool.

Support Groups

While support groups are not technically therapy, they can have similar benefits and tend to be free. Support groups are typically run by peers and not licensed professionals. They have many benefits, like being led by someone with lived experience with the same thing you struggle with. Support groups can be online and in person at places like churches, community centers, and even people's homes. A good place to start is NAMI's website.

Summary

We get it, when you are struggling, the last thing you want to worry about is money. We never want finances to be a reason you don't reach out for help. If we cannot serve you, we will help find you resources to other trusted providers in the community who accept your insurance or provide free or low-cost services. Reach out today to learn more.