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What to Do if You Can't Afford Mental Health Therapy

Mental health is as important as physical health, if not more. If you are suffering from a mental health issue then it is recommended to seek immediate help and therapy. Unfortunately, sometimes these therapies can be expensive. Luckily, there are some good and cost-effective ways in which you can get mental health therapy even when you are on a budget. Take a look at this article to know more about them.

How To Make Therapy Affordable

Finding therapy that fits your budget can be a challenge, especially if you’re seeking therapy after a recent trauma. But there are lower-cost options if you know where to look.

1. Check your Insurance

Check if your insurance plan covers essential mental health services, including:

- Psychotherapy

- Counselling

- Inpatient services

- Substance use disorder treatment

Not all therapists accept insurance. So before booking an appointment, make sure to check if the therapist takes insurance and if they’ll accept your specific plan.

2. Ask your therapist for discounted rates, or shorter sessions

Request your therapist to shorten the session and offer you a discounted rate.

3. Check online therapy services or see if your therapist offers online sessions

Online consultations are common these days and they are considerably cheaper than the physical sessions. Also, you save a lot of money on transportation costs. So, definitely check out this option, and you may find a good therapist at a good cost.

4. Consider Group Therapy

Group therapy is helpful and inexpensive. At times, these sessions are free. All you need to do is show up at the venue and participate in the session. Look out for a group session in your vicinity.

5. Look for Community Mental Health Centers

Local community mental health centers are another good resource. They not only provide mental health assistance, but they can also reduce the stigma of mental illness.

6. Meet a Psychologist under-going Training

Though your therapist may be in training, they’ll always be overseen by a professionally licensed expert and teacher. These trainee offer therapy sessions at low costs and are also good at their job.

What If Therapy Is Not In My Budget?

If the above options don’t work for you, then you can try the following:

● If you are working, then check if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

● Look out for nonprofits, volunteer, and local organizations who offer free support groups for grief, trauma, and addiction recovery.

● Self-led activities like meditation apps, podcasts, and self-help books can help you improve your overall mental and physical health.

● Opt for a free, government-sponsored program. There may be long waiting queues, but you can get excellent mental care health at such centres.

Conclusion

Getting mental health help is crucial, and it is not something you should ignore. If you’re unsure whether mental health therapy fits in your budget, there are alternatives that may open doors that you thought were sealed shut.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about it, click here

Source: Verywell Mind, PsychCentral

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on February 07, 2023