For a variety of reasons, many people find that they can’t afford the high costs of traditional face-to-face therapy. When you’re feeling stuck and need help, it’s often hard to reach out for support. Here are six ideas about how to get the help you need without breaking your budget:
1 . SUPPORT GROUPS AND COMMUNITY MEETINGS
Many counseling centers and therapy groups will offer sliding scale therapy or free community meetings for people who can’t afford regular rates. A quick Google search for “low cost therapy” in your area will yield some results. If you are seriously considering therapy, but think that the regular rates are just too high for you to afford, check into these options.
2 . PAY WITH YOUR INSURANCE
Check with your insurance provider about whether they cover “out-of-network” counseling providers. If they do, you may be able to work out a payment plan with a therapist and pay reduced fees by using your insurance. To find out the maximum amount that your insurance will cover for each session, ask them directly or visit their website. Some therapists even offer free consultations to help you figure out what works best for you.
3 . BARTER SERVICES WITH A THERAPIST OR PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Many therapists are willing to trade services with other professionals in exchange for psycho-education, training or counseling services. For example, I have received legal advice in exchange for providing training to an attorney’s professional organization. Other therapists may be able to provide life-coaching, marketing assistance or mediation skills in exchange for therapy sessions. If you don’t know any therapists who provide such services, you might ask your friends or family members to see if anyone they know does.
4 . FIND A THERAPIST WHO DOES CYBERTHERAPY OR TELE COUNSELING SERVICES
Cyber-counseling services allow you to see a therapist through an internet video chat or phone call. These options allow you to access therapeutic services without leaving your home. You can find these therapists online and many of them charge very reasonable rates for their services. This is important, do not jump right into the service if you haven’t done careful research about it. Make sure it’s suitable for you first. The information listed here will help you decide more carefully.
5 . LOOK FOR LOW-COST SHELTERS OR FOOD BANKS IN YOUR AREA
Many communities have shelters and food banks that offer mental health services to the homeless, low-income families, or people experiencing economic hardship. These locations can often be a great source of referrals for affordable therapists or counselors in your area. Many of the therapists who practice there may charge a flat rate or accept payment for food. You can always simply ask ‘Do you have any counselors here?’ when you visit one of these locations, but be aware that they sometimes get very busy and it might take some time to get an answer.
6 . FIND A THERAPIST WITHIN A COMMUNITY OF ALTERNATIVE PRACTICE OR HOLISTIC HEALING SERVICES
People have grown weary of the traditional “medical model” for treating mental illness. There is greater interest in alternative therapies, mind-body medicine and holistic healing modalities. The patients are often more proactive about their treatment plans, which allows therapists to work more collaboratively with them.
There are many alternative practices that offer services at much lower costs than traditional therapy. Often, they will suggest clients see a therapist in addition to their sessions with the alternative practitioner.
I hope this article helps you find ways to get support without breaking your budget!