The cost of CBT varies depending on factors such as location, therapist qualifications, session format, and whether you use insurance.
These are the typical costs:
- Private therapy (without insurance).
If paying out-of-pocket, expect:
-
- $100 – $250 per session: The average cost in the U.S.
- $50 – $150 per session: In smaller cities or with less experienced counselors.
- $200 – $400 per session: In major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or with highly specialized therapists.
- Sliding Scale Fees: Some psychotherapists offer reduced rates based on income.
- Therapy with insurance
-
- Many insurance plans cover CBT under mental health benefits.
- Copay typically ranges from $20 – $50 per session.
- Some plans cover a set number of sessions per year, like 10–20 sessions, for instance.
How to check coverage:
Call your insurance provider and ask:
-
- “Do you cover CBT therapy sessions?”
- “What is my copay or out-of-pocket cost?”
- “How many sessions are covered?”
Search your insurance company’s therapist directory for in-network providers.
- Online therapy options (more affordable)
Online therapy platforms present CBT at a lower price:
-
- BetterHelp: $60-$90 per week (billed monthly).
- Talkspace: $69-$109 per week, including messaging and video calls.
- Online-Therapy.com: Starts at $50 per week and contains worksheets in addition to exercises.
These platforms are convenient but may not be covered by insurance.
- Low-cost and free CBT options
If private therapy is too expensive, try:
-
- Community mental health clinics: Offer CBT at reduced rates or for free.
- University counseling centers: Free or low-budget therapy for students.
- Nonprofits and support groups: Some organizations provide CBT-based programs.
- CBT self-help books and apps: Free or cheap resources to practice CBT independently.
Summed up:
- With insurance: $20-$50 per session (copay).
- Without insurance: $100-$250 per session.
- Online therapy: $50-$100 per week.
- Cheaper options exist if you need financial help.
Join our forum and Facebook
Please consider joining our forum and Facebook if you enjoyed reading this and would like to chat with like-minded peers about anything depression related.
It would certainly go a long way toward making my dream of creating a thriving, supportive community a reality!
