How much does therapy cost? average? or for you? (out of pocket) ?
Question:
So I know I will probably have to pay out of pocket pretty soon, but I think its worth it, for my well- being.
If it helps I live in california.
Answers:
The average cost of therapy, according to a recent American Psychological Association report, was between $80 and $450. Usually, you will pay about $100 to $175 depending on the type of service you receive.
Your best bet is to receive free therapy from an institution or graduate program that trains doctoral students in psychotherapy. There, your therapist will be under the close eye of supervision, will be trained well, and you will receive free yet effective therapy. Many places train grad students, and you will be quite happy with the service you receive. For your particular status, seek a location that offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This form of treatment is the most effective and will provide you with symptom relief within weeks. Good luck!
I have to pay $70 per hour for follow-ups but I don't remember what I paid for the first consultation... And if you're cutting you need a psychiatrist, babe, someone who'll give you some meds cuz you probably have depression, which is a chemical imbalance that needs to be fixed with drugs.
You are strong for fighting the cutting! I know how you feel, and it is something that is hard not to do. I am proud of you!
I also know how big of a pain the in the butt it can be to find a therapist. What you can try is calling your insurance company and asking if they have a list of those they cover (how I found mine when I was younger). Each person will charge differently, but most are willing to work with the patient. If not, you can always try social services, as they may be able to set you up with a state paid therapist and the payments should be based on your income. I hope this helps and I hope everything works out for the best!
Your insurance company should be able to give you a list of providers they cover. You can try the clinic of a hospital connected to a medical school. Or try a social service agency that is nonprofit and offers counseling. They will offer services on a sliding scale. I see a therapist every once in a while. She charges $90 per hour visit. I am sure you can find therapy that is less than that. You are right, it is worth it, so definitely keep looking.
Kudos for taking the first step. Therapy runs the price gamut from $50/hr to upwards of $175 and more.
However, try this: most larger cities have some type of organization where therapists (usually MS or PhD grad students in Psych) go to "get their hours" i.e., provide service to the community to get the minimum hours before licensing. Even though they are students you can find very competent therapists at these centers.
In L.A. there's a very good one called WILA (Wright Institute Los Angeles). Pricing is usually significantly lower than an established therapist. They may have a reference for similar centers in other cities. Good luck.
Check newspaper for depression groups, interview them to find out whether they have licensed therapist leading the group. Normally, it is free. Try the group to ensure that they are the right group for you. Most have been reported as feeling worst to have been in these groups. It is not one size fits all.
Christian churches, particularly Catholic Charities offered the services based on income scale or free - depending on your situation and income. Do check with local clergy to find out more information. As always - interview them first to ensure your safety. Most people in these professions are trustworthy, but you might find some incompetent ones as in any other professions for unknown reasons.
Another alternative is to check with local hospitals, there are many psycho-therapists would offer their services for free and they might be able to help with you prescription/drugs as needed.
You are on the right track asking for help. In case of emergency call 911 - most cities they have hot line for mental crisis as well. They have people to talk with you helping you pass the critical moment. You are not alone.
If you are religious or forgot to be one. Prayer might also help.
But most of all, make a determination to find help and promise yourself a gift of hope, happiness, love, and brighter future. If you are 20 years old, have a high school diploma, not yet been to college, apply to a local college, education might help taking your mind off and there are free help on campus as well. Another opportunity for you to make friends.
Take a small step every day for trusting. If you fail yourself about trusting another fool... Forgive yourself, it is not your fault - but do learn from the mistakes. Once you have learned it, you will forgive yourself and move on. Life is full of hardship, heartaches, but you could and will make the best of it as long as you are willing to take the risk again and again.
Volunteer work with Red Cross, local recreation centers to be around with positive people might also help.
Warm thoughts and good luck to you.
I have been going to the same place for 6 years. They have a sliding fee scale which is a percentage of my monthly income. As a student I paid $20. With my awesome job I paid $60. Now in my OK job I pay $35.
Check out non-profit therapy centers. Maybe an Internet search for some in your area? I like the non profits because I think the therapists are better since they donate their time from private practice where they could make more money.
My friend goes to therapy at a University that has a Psychology doctorate program. The smart students help her very much because they are younger and she pays less since they don't have a doctorate degree. Most professional therapists don't even have a PhD!
Good luck with your search!
Amelia
You might be eligible for med-cal insurance. California offers this to low income residents. If you make too much money there could be a co-pay. Or a share of cost.
Many counselors charge on a sliding scale... Try calling your local social service department and inquire about mental health services for the low income.
Since you are an adult you might qualify.
Have you thought about contacting the local Mental Health Association or maybe the National Alliance ( or Association?)of Mental Illness (NAMI) and tell them your situation and ask if they can recommend any good counselors in your area. Hope these suggestions help. Good luck.
I'm not being a smart mouth. I am truly wanting you to get help. I take depression medication myself. Call your community mental health agency. They can even find you someone for free. Good Luck.
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