The cost of behavioral activation (BA) therapy can vary widely depending on where you live, how you access it, and whether you’re working with a licensed therapist or using a self-guided approach.

These are the typical options and what you can expect cost-wise:

1. Private therapy (one-on-one)

If you’re seeing a licensed therapist in private practice:

• • USA: $100–$250 per session.
  • UK: £50–£120 per session.
  • Europe (e.g., Belgium): €50–€100 per session.
  • Australia: AUD 100–$200 per session.

Most BA therapy programs last 8–20 sessions, so full treatment might cost $800 to $4,000+, depending on the duration and location.

Insurance may cover part or all of the cost if BA is provided by a licensed therapist under mental health coverage.

2. Public or subsidized healthcare
   
   

In some countries (like Belgium, the UK, or Canada), BA may be offered:

• • For free or low cost through public health services.
  • With reimbursement through national health insurance.
  • As part of a broader therapy program (in hospitals, mental health centers, or outpatient clinics).

In Belgium, for example, therapy under the national health system can cost as little as €11 per session with a registered psychologist.

3. Online therapy platforms

Many online platforms now offer BA as part of general depression treatment:

• • BetterHelp, Talkspace, or similar: $60–$120/week (subscription-based).
  • European platforms (Mindler, BloomUp): €50–€90 per session.
  • Some platforms have sliding scales or student discounts.

Ask if your therapist specializes in BA specifically, as not all do.

4. Self-guided or budget options

BA is one of the few therapies that can also be effective in a self-help format if affordability is a concern.

That’s notably true for mild to moderate depression.

• • Books:
    

• • • “The Mindful Way Workbook” – ~$20.
    • “Behavioral Activation for Depression: A Clinician’s Guide” – ~$30.
    • “The Depression Cure” by Stephen Ilardi – ~$15 (not BA-only, but very relevant).

• • Free or low-cost online courses/tools:

• • • MoodGym (Australia).
    • LLTTF (UK).
    • Psychology Tools BA worksheets (free or low-fee).

Self-guided BA works best if you’re motivated and able to track behaviors consistently.