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An Insiders Guide to Mental Health Therapy

Karissa

Participating in mental health therapy can be a life-changing step toward wellness, but starting the process of navigating costs, options, and finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding of what’s available, this guide covers everything you need to know. From understanding the difference between outpatient and inpatient care to tips for selecting the right professional, we’ve got you covered with the tricks of the trade.


How Much Is Mental Health Therapy With and Without Insurance?


Mental health therapy costs can vary significantly depending on factors like the type of therapy, location, and therapist experience or credentials. With insurance, cost varies based on your individual health insurance plan. It is best to contact your insurance office to find out:


1. Local therapists who are paneled for your in-network plan.

2. What your out-of-pocket costs are likely to include.

3. If your insurance plan accepts superbills and what percentage would be reimbursed back to you (see below regarding superbills).


It is important to note if you are anticipating using your insurance, most companies will require a diagnosis of a mental-health condition and indicate that you must have an “illness” before they will agree to reimburse. Some conditions for which people seek therapy do not qualify for reimbursement. It is critical to understand that any diagnosis made will become part of your permanent insurance records. This is particularly important to consider when utilizing insurance for children. While the ACA protects this information, certain professions or organizations could require information about therapy or mental health diagnoses as part of the application process and/or compensation. This varies by state and could include:

  • Health Insurance companies

  • State Bar associations

  • Medical boards (in Florida this may include medical doctors and mental health practitioners such as licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and mental health counselors)

  • Religious denominations prior to ordination

  • Federal agencies for applications for sensitive government roles or the military


A superbill is an itemized list of sessions you have attended and paid out-of-pocket. The benefit of a superbill is being able to see a therapist who is not in your network for a comparable price. This option provides access to more therapists within your area or allows you to see a therapist right away instead of being on a waiting list. Generally, it is your decision and responsibility to submit the superbill to your insurance company for reimbursement. The amount of reimbursement varies plan to plan, and not all insurance plans accepts superbills. It is important to recognize that since you are technically using your health insurance, a qualifying diagnosis is generally needed, and the above precautions still apply.


Without insurance, you can still be diagnosed but there is generally less necessity. Often, people who do not want their private information subjected to different organizations choose to pay privately. The cost of therapy sessions typically ranges from $75 to $250 per session. However, some therapists or nonprofit organizations offer sliding scale fees based on income, making it more affordable for those with financial constraints. Community clinics may also provide low-cost or free therapy options. Keep in mind that therapists or organizations charging lower fees are often less experienced. Group therapy sessions can also be a more cost-effective alternative to individual therapy.

Close-up image of interlocked hands symbolizing support, connection, and care, aligning with the themes of mental health therapy, healing, growth and finding the right therapist.

What Is Outpatient vs. Inpatient Mental Health Therapy?


Outpatient mental health therapy involves attending scheduled therapy sessions while continuing to live at home and maintain daily responsibilities. This is the type of therapy most people think of when it is not a hospital setting. It’s ideal for individuals managing mild to moderate mental health challenges. Outpatient care may include individual therapy, couple therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and support groups, with sessions typically occur weekly or biweekly.


There are also intensive outpatient programs. These programs are ideal for those with a higher level of acuity that is between outpatient and inpatient services. Typically, these programs have several sessions per week for several weeks until the client’s challenges reduce, allowing for a regular outpatient therapy experience. Clients can live at home and maintain a regular schedule, if feasible for them.


Inpatient mental health therapy, on the other hand, requires staying at a facility for a period of time. This intensive level of care is suited for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises or those needing 24/7 supervision and support. Inpatient programs often combine individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and skill-building activities.


Where to Get Mental Health Therapy


  1. Private Practices: Search for licensed therapists in private practice through directories like Psychology Today, Open Path Collective, or TherapyDen.

  2. Community Mental Health Clinics: These clinics often provide affordable or free therapy services and cater to individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

  3. Nonprofit Organizations: Groups like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and local mental health organizations may offer free or low-cost therapy options.

  4. Insurance: Check with your health insurance provider to see if they can provide a local directory with all clinicians that are in network.

  5. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers provide free, short-term counseling sessions as part of their EAP.

  6. University Counseling Centers: Students can access free or low-cost therapy through their college or university.


What Is Mental Health Therapy Like?


Mental health therapy provides a safe space to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with a licensed professional. The process typically begins with an initial session where the therapist gathers information about your concerns, goals, personal background and mental health history. Subsequent sessions focus on addressing challenges, developing coping skills, and working toward your goals. Therapy sessions are confidential, nonjudgmental, and tailored to your circumstances. For more specific questions about therapy sessions and starting with Create Perspective Counseling, find the answers here.


Therapy styles vary based on the therapist’s approach and the client’s needs. Common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing negative thought patterns, and Person-Centered Therapy, which emphasizes empathy and self-discovery. Find out more about therapeutic approaches and what we utilize at Create Perspective Counseling here.


How to Find the Right Therapist for You


Did you know that 60% of change that occurs in therapy is due to your relationship with your therapist? Therefore, it is absolutely critical to find the right match for you so you are not wasting time and money. It is always recommended to have a consultation with several therapists before you decide. Most professionals offer a free 15-minute consultation to verify their skills match your presenting concerns and ensure you would feel comfortable in session with them. Below are some tips when looking for a therapist and during the consultation:


  1. Identify Your Needs: Reflect on your mental health goals and the type of support you’re seeking. Ask the therapist what their experience has been in working with these types of challenges and how their prior clients have improved.

  2. Research Credentials: Look for licensed professionals who specialize in your areas of concern, such as trauma, anxiety, or grief. Verify that their credentials are creditable and current through your states website and certification boards. For Florida licensing professionals, look here. You can also ask therapists why they chose their profession or their area of specialization. This can give you insight into their passion and dedication to their work.

  3. Consider Therapy Style: Explore different therapeutic approaches and decide which resonates with you. Do you want more of a directive approach or one that is more validating? Discuss this with the professional to see if their personal style matches yours.

  4. Trust Your Instincts: The therapeutic relationship is crucial. Choose a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and supported. In the initial consultation, if you do not feel understood, respected or heard, move on!

  5. For more tips: Check out our FAQs page for both general insights to the therapeutic process, finding a therapist and specific questions about Create Perspective Counseling.


Finding the right therapist may take time, but it’s worth the effort. Whether you seek support for personal growth or mental health challenges, therapy can be a transformative experience. If you’re ready to find a therapist who feels like the right match for you, Create Perspective Counseling is here to help. We understand the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship and offer a compassionate, personalized approach to support your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for trauma therapy, grief counseling, creative expressive art techniques or something else, we’re committed to helping you feel seen, heard, understood, and finding the right fit. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today, and let us help you take the first step toward healing and growth.

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