How to Find Affordable Therapy (Even Without Insurance)

You can find affordable therapy without insurance by looking for sliding scale providers, community clinics, nonprofit services, online platforms, or employer benefits. If you've ever looked at therapy prices and thought, “I can’t afford that,” you're not alone. Therapy can be expensive but there are other options that aren’t as expensive as you might think. 

Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or just trying to stretch your dollars, here’s how to find therapy that fits your budget and your needs.

1. Use Your Insurance 

Depending on your insurance plan, you can find high quality providers accepting your insurance. Visits can be as little as $0-$20 depending on your coverage.  

Many online provider directories such as Connect by Spring Health, offer the ability to see provider visit costs before you start care. 

2. Explore Community Mental Health Clinics

Local nonprofit clinics and community health centers often provide low- or no-cost therapy, especially in underserved areas.

Search for: “Community mental health clinic + [your city]”

These services are often staffed by licensed therapists and supervised interns.

3. Check Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Many workplaces offer short-term, confidential therapy through their EAP, even if you don’t have health insurance through them. It’s usually free for a set number of sessions. 

Does your employer offer Spring Health? Ask your Human Resources or Benefits Administrator to find out what is offered to you and whether it extends to your family members. 

4. Use an Online Therapy Platform

Many platforms offer virtual sessions with lower pricing than in-person care, and accept HSA/FSA or employer subsidies to offset the cost.

5. Explore Blended Care Models

Platforms like Connect by Spring Health offer visits through self-pay or insurance but also provide free self-care tools like digital CBT resources, mindfulness exercises, guided meditation and support for neurodiversity and families. 

Bonus Tip: Ask About Payment Plans

Some providers offer biweekly billing or longer sessions less frequently to reduce the cost.

From Spring Health:
We believe cost should never be a barrier to care. Our platform helps you find therapists who accept your budget, your life stage, and your needs.