One reason why the poor is associated with poor mental health is because therapy is expensive. Many people don’t get the help they need because therapy, as they look at it, is quite expensive. And there is much truth to that. First, you’re not going to be treated in just one therapy session, and these sessions can add up in costs.
If you don’t have much money, here are some ways you can get the therapy you need while on a budget.
Try Online Counseling
One of the most popular, newer ways to get the therapy you need is online counseling or therapy. Online therapy allows you to get help on the go and on your own schedule. Online therapy can help those with serious depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Online counseling can offer advice and help. Help with a new job, marriage advice, the list goes on and on.
Try Looking At Your Insurance
One way you may be able to get therapy for cheap, or even free, is through your health insurance. All insurance is different, with some health insurance covering therapy and counseling, while others ignoring it. If you have the option to choose health insurance, try going for insurance that offers mental healthcare as well as all the other services you need.
Pro Bono
Some therapists work pro bono. This means that they are willing to take on a select few clients for free as a service to the public. Pro bono slots do fill up fast, so you need to have a little luck and perseverance. Contact as many therapists as possible and see if there are any slots available. If so, you may be able to get therapy for little to no cost.
Sliding Scale Payments
If you do have to pay, some therapists offer an income-based payment system. Simply put, the less money you make, the more you pay, and vice versa. Some therapists make it easy for those who have low income to afford therapy. They empathize and understand that you’re never going to improve in life if you don’t get the help you need. Personally, we would love to see more people like this.
Look to the Public
There are many public options available if you want to receive mental healthcare. Some public health clinics offer therapy at a cheap price. Some therapists who work at those places may be of lower quality and be overbooked, but sometimes, you may find one who is neither.
You may also look to your church or religious institution. Many of them offer free advice and guidance, and some will use a more science-based approach. It’s understandable that you may feel a little uncomfortable going there if you’re not religious, but many of them will offer a more secular look if you’re not that religious.
Your Friends and Family Can Help
While your friends and your family aren’t your therapists, they may be able to offer advice and guidance. Friends and family may be a little biased, so make sure they’re people who can give it to you straight. This can be a challenge, but a good friend or family member can help. By the way, if you want to learn more about family, click here or read more for advice and ideas. We know raising a family is hard, and we are here to help.
Conclusion
Perhaps one day, it will be easier for those to get the mental healthcare they need. For now, you need to play it smart if you want therapy on a budget.
