How To Pay for Therapy Without Insurance
In recent years, people have been embracing the need to do more about their mental health. With the stigma breaking down about addressing emotions and a greater focus on mindfulness, people are now discovering their inner strength and embracing mental health treatment as part of their overall wellbeing. However, pursuing a therapist to speak to in a safe environment may not be an affordable option for some people without health insurance. Thankfully, there are ways that patients can find qualified counseling despite being uninsured.
Negotiate a payment plan.
If you are looking for a therapist but don’t have insurance coverage, you may want to look for mental health resources in the area that will afford you the chance to pay them directly in installments. For example, the Therapy Group of DC understands that therapy sessions can be pricy. That’s why they try to accommodate a good fit for patients in both their practitioner and in a care plan that is paid off based on the number of appointments.
Individual therapy sessions may average at different rates, so it’s important to consider the cost based on your current budget. You may want to look into group therapy depending on your circumstances and comfort level to address any interpersonal challenges in a supportive space that affords a discounted rate in most situations.
Pay later with a credit card.
While you may not be able to pay by cash or check, you can afford individual therapy or group therapy without health insurance by putting it on your credit card. Be sure to do your research, even if it starts with typing “best credit cards Canada” into a search engine. This will let you know the interest rates that come with particular credit cards. You’ll also be made aware of terms and conditions that may help you avoid paying more down the line.
While you could opt for a payment plan directly through a therapy group, a credit card may be able to help you capitalize on a loyalty program. You could build up bonus points to use on purchases down the line, even scoring discounts on certain perks. You could turn your therapy sessions into savings for a self-care journey, paying for flights, lodging, and other incidentals.
Look into free resources.
If payment plans and credit cards are a no-go because of your budget or credit score, there are free resources available in your city, state, and even at the national level. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has a telephone line that offers free assistance 24/7/365. This is a great asset in emergencies, but also can help patients track down additional benefits and outlets in their area.
There are non-profit options available across the U.S. that match lower-income individuals to the health care services they need, without having to worry about insurance coverage. Costs may vary depending on the state and the mental healthcare provider, but often max out at around $50 per hour.
Check into what your job may offer.
Most employers used to simply provide health insurance coverage and that’s it. Now, more employers are recognizing the need to include mental health services to better their employee’s wellbeing. Some companies offer mental health benefits through an employee assistance program that helps to establish discounted out-of-pocket rates for continuing care from mental healthcare professionals that provide EAP services.
The fact of the matter is you shouldn’t have to be insured or splurge to address your emotional health. Don’t be afraid to explore your options. Speak with group members about group therapy sessions. Look into process groups to address certain issues, or bereavement services if you are dealing with the loss of a loved one. Help is out there. Don’t be afraid to ask for it.
