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I Need Therapy But Can't Afford It

I Need Therapy But Can't Afford It

Updated July 11, 2016

There are millions people across the United States who need therapy but can't afford it. You are not alone, in the US, one in every four adults has a mental health problem every year. People often don't receive the mental help they need for various reasons, often it's because they don't know where to start, they feel shame, or can't afford it. Use these resources to find the help you, your friends, or family need.

Where do I start if I Need Therapy?

If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, is feeling extremely bad or suicidal, get help right away. You can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center or dial 911 for immediate assistance.

Your Health Care Provider

Contact your health provider. As of 2014, most individual and small group health insurance plans, including plans sold on the Marketplace are required to cover mental health and substance use disorder services. Medicaid Alternative Benefit Plans also must cover mental health and substance use disorder services.

I Need Therapy But Don't Have Insurance

If you do not have health coverage, contact your local community mental health center about lower-cost services. In many states you can dial 2-1-1 to find a community mental health center. You can also contact your local Mental Health America affiliate or Mental Health America's national resource center. Learn more by checking out http://www.healthcare.gov/.

Therapy for Veterans, Service Members, and Their Families

The U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs Mental Health Resources: The main department which has subdivisions providing access to mental health and support services specifically for veterans including the following below:
  • National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: The center aims to improve the well-being of individuals who have experienced traumatic events, with a focus on American Veterans.
  • VA Mental Health: The program provides mental health services for veterans and their families. All mental health care provided by VA supports recovery, and aims to enable people with mental health problems to live meaningful lives in their communities.
  • National Resource Directory connects wounded warriors, service members, veterans, and their families with national, state, and local support programs. The NRD is a partnership among the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs.

About Online Therapy on 7 Cups

7 Cups offers free, anonymous, trained active listeners and online therapists & counselors. Whether you are going through challening times at home, work, school, or in your relationship, we have an active listener or online counselor ready for you to share your problems in a safe and anonymous way. Learn more by checking out our homepage or connecting to a listener below. As of June 2016, we also offer full online therapy services so you can chat with a trained professional therapist. Click the connect with a therapist button on our homepage to get rolling!

Connect with an active listener for free by clicking below