Is Therapy Really Affordable?

When weighing the costs of maintaining mental health, it's crucial to see how therapy expenses compare to other self-care activities. An eyelash set can cost $85.00-$200, which is comparable to some full-fee therapy services for individuals or couples. A copay per session with an in-network (INN) insurance plan is typically $20 to $50, similar to the cost of a meal.

When you think about how the cost of therapy is equitable to other self care activities you engage in, it is very affordable. Therapy does not need to be attended weekly, some therapists understand that finances can be hard for clients and will sometimes see clients every two weeks (twice a month) or once a month. The client always has control over how often they choose to be seen. Therapists may suggest more regular visits, but it is ultimately the clients right to set the pace of their treatment in private practice settings. However, if you have a high deductible plan, such as Cigna or Aetna, you could pay between $112.96 to $153 per session until you meet your deductible, with out-of-pocket costs potentially reaching $215 to $175 per session. For those paying privately or through cash pay, therapy can cost anywhere from $130 to $175 per session, akin to luxury treatments or designer services. If you have a PPO plan, you might pay $130 to $255 per session upfront and submit a superbill for reimbursement. Sliding scale options may also be available, with fees as low as $70 through programs like Open Path. If you're interested in lowering the cost, ask your therapist about sliding scale options.

Also, keep in mind that therapy offers long-term benefits. A lash set can range from $80 to $200, while some hair care services can cost $65-$300+. Instead of spending money on fleeting experiences like monthly spa days, investing in therapy can yield lasting improvements in your mental well-being and your day to day living. Therapy has the power to change how you feel about yourself, how you feel in the world. Therapy is an investment that has high returns on quality of life.

Understanding Therapy Costs and Insurance

Choosing the right insurance plan is key to making therapy more affordable. It is essential to understand how your plan functions, especially concerning copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. For example, opting for a plan with a lower copay can substantially reduce your expenses for therapy (and other doctors) visits. A lower copay can lead to lower out-of-pocket costs for each visit. Conversely, a slightly higher copay might mean paying more per session. but could allow you to reach your out-of-pocket maximum sooner.

Enrollment Dates and Plan Types

It's also important to ask about your enrollment date, as some plans run on a calendar year while others operate on a contract or plan year. If you noticed this year that you had a higher deductible, you can check your enrollment date and consider switching to a plan with a lower copay or coinsurance. For instance, you might choose between an out-of-pocket cost of $10 versus $30, or 10% versus 30% coinsurance. Consider plans from providers like Aetna or Cigna, which might also have helpful resources such as a customer service team to clarify your therapy coverage. If a plan requires a high deductible, be cautious, as this might lead to higher unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Out-of-Pocket Therapy Costs

Out-of-pocket therapy costs refer to the expenses that clients pay directly for therapy services without going through insurance. This can include several scenarios:

Private Pay

Clients may choose to pay out of pocket for therapy services, often referred to as "private pay" or "cash." This option means that clients will not be using insurance and can have more flexibility and control over their therapy sessions. Clients may need to have a debit or credit card on file for payment purposes.

In-Network and Out-of-Network Providers

For clients with in-network plans, out-of-pocket costs may include:

• Copay: A fixed amount paid at the time of service.

• Coinsurance: A percentage of the total cost that the client is responsible for until their out-of-pocket maximum is met.
  

Clients who prefer a therapist outside their network can opt to see them as a private pay client. For clients with an out-of-network PPO plan, therapists can issue a monthly superbill for partial reimbursement of therapy costs, enabling clients to recover some of their expenses.

Benefits of Private Pay

There are many benefits to paying out of pocket and not going through your insurance. Many clients choose to not involve insurance companies for counseling services for several reasons. Private pay allows:

• No required diagnosis

• No limit to the number of sessions 

• No need to worry if your insurance will cover couples therapy

• No need to worry about your insurance companies accessing your health records 

• More availability for sessions to start your work immediately

• More theory and intervention options to help best meet your needs

Many people actually prefer to pay privately and not involve their insurance at all. This is because in order to use insurance for counseling, a mental health diagnosis is required, and this gets attached to your medical records. Insurance can also put limitations on the number of counseling sessions you can have, prior to truly completing the process. 

And by not taking insurance, therapists are able to maintain a smaller caseload of clientele and devote all of their focus into helping you. Instead of taking hours each week going back and forth with insurance companies for unpaid claims, therapists can devote that time and energy to their clients, resulting in better outcomes for therapy.

Negotiating Rates for Uninsured Individuals

Even for those without insurance, many therapists offer reasonable out-of-pocket rates that can be negotiated based on individual financial circumstances. The cost might often be as manageable as going out for lunch or the cost of your electric bill.

Utilizing Your OON PPO Health Plan Benefits

If we are not in-network with your insurance plan but you have a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) policy, you may be eligible to receive reimbursement for out-of-network (OON) services. Many PPO plans offer partial reimbursement when you choose to see an out-of-network provider.

Here’s how it works:

1. Payment at Time of Service – You pay the full session fee out of pocket at the time of your appointment.

2. Superbill Provided – We will provide you with a monthly superbill, which is a detailed receipt that includes all the information your insurance company needs to process an out-of-network claim (e.g., provider credentials, diagnosis codes, session dates, and fees).

3. Submit to Insurance – You submit the superbill directly to your insurance company, typically through your online member portal or by mail. Each insurance company has its own process, so we recommend calling the number on the back of your card for exact instructions.

4. Reimbursement – If your plan includes OON benefits, you may receive a partial reimbursement check directly from your insurance provider, depending on your plan’s deductible, co-insurance, and coverage policies.
   

We always recommend checking with your insurance provider ahead of time to ask:

• Does my plan include out-of-network mental health benefits?

• What percentage of the session fee will be reimbursed?

• Is there a deductible I must meet first?

• Where and how do I submit a superbill?
  

Group Therapy and Workshops

Group therapy and workshops present a fantastic opportunity to access therapy at a lower cost. These formats allow clients to share experiences under the guidance of a licensed therapist, making support more affordable. Specialized programs, such as LGBTQIA+ support groups and workshops for BIPOC communities, serve as valuable spaces for healing. These initiatives often receive funding that allows them to provide therapy at a reduced cost, making mental health resources even more accessible.

Online Therapy Options: TeleHealth

Teletherapy has revolutionized the approach to mental health support, making it widely available and often cheaper than traditional in-person sessions. Many virtual platforms now offer an array of affordable options. In California, for example, these online services can be covered at 100% depending on the health plan you have or have a copay/coinsurance similar to the cost of a coffee or movie ticket. Some offices offer free 15-minute consultations, allowing you to find the right fit without committing to high fees upfront. Additionally, some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), such as Aetna EAP and Cigna EAP, which can provide a certain number of therapy sessions covered by your employer.

Benefits of Teletherapy

• Increased accessibility to mental health support

• Cost-effective compared to traditional therapy

• Flexibility in scheduling sessions

• Opportunity for free initial consultations

• No wasting money on gas to get to an office

• No wasted time in traffic going to an office

Finding Culturally Competent Care

For individuals from diverse backgrounds, seeking culturally competent therapy can significantly enhance the therapeutic experience. Many therapists understand the specific challenges faced by marginalized groups and often offer sliding scale rates. Look for directories that list therapists dedicated to affordability and inclusivity. These platforms connect you with professionals who share or comprehend your experiences, making your therapy journey more impactful.

Making Mental Wellness Affordable

Affording therapy might feel overwhelming at first, but multiple options can make mental health support both accessible and affordable. Exploring sliding scale rates, understanding your insurance, considering group therapy, and taking advantage of online services can all help you integrate therapy into your self-care routine without financial strain. Investing in your mental health is just as crucial as other expenses, such as enjoying a nice meal or treating yourself to a beauty service. Prioritizing your mental well-being can lead to better life satisfaction. So take that first step toward more accessible therapy and see how it can enhance your life—without emptying your wallet.