Are you or one of your clients in need of mental health services but don’t have insurance?
Everyone deserves access to the mental health support they need, regardless of their insurance situation. But we understand how challenging this can be, and how out of reach therapy can feel for those without insurance—especially with the rising costs of mental health services.
The good news is that there are options available. This guide is here to help you find the support you need—for yourself or for your clients—even without insurance.
You don’t have to face this alone—help is just around the corner. We’re here to make the process easier and help you get the care you deserve.
How to find a therapist without insurance
If you don’t have health insurance—or your policy doesn’t cover mental health care—there are still ways to get the help you need. Here are some affordable options:
1. Sliding scale
Some therapists offer support on a sliding scale basis, which simply means the cost of their services is based on their patient’s income—not set fees.
For example, someone earning less than $30,000 a year might pay around $30 per session, but if they earn over that, the cost could be $45. The fee is always discussed upfront, so you’ll know what to expect before you commit to an appointment.
2. Online therapy platforms
Online therapy platforms are another great option for affordable mental health care. With platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace, you can connect with a therapist via video, phone, chat, or direct messages.
Since these sessions aren’t in person, they’re typically more budget-friendly to make mental health support more accessible to those without insurance.
At the same time, many people find it easier to open up to a therapist during sessions attended from the safety and comfort of their own home.
3. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
If you or your clinic’s clients have a job, there may be an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in place as part of the contract.
Employees (and their family members) are often entitled to a few free therapy sessions as part of these programs. It’s a great way to access support while going through a particularly tough time, or while waiting for a more permanent solution to be arranged.
4. Nonprofit organizations
In Eastern Virginia, several nonprofit organizations offer affordable or sliding-scale mental health services for those without insurance. These organizations are committed to providing affordable therapy, often at reduced rates (or even for free!).
Some options include:
- Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board
- Tidewater Youth Services Foundation
- The Mental Health Association of Virginia
- Greater Richmond SCAN
- Eastern Shore Community Services Board
- Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (in Central Virginia, but accessible to some parts of Eastern VA)
- Family Service of Roanoke Valley
5. Support groups
Support groups offer community, comfort, and friendship without the cost of group therapy. Participants can connect with others facing similar mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, and suicide prevention.
Organizations like The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Virginia, The Virginia Alliance for Mental Health (VAMH), and others facilitate support groups and other affordable mental health support options.
6. SMVF mental health resources
Service members, veterans, and their families (SMVF) can access a variety of mental health resources, including therapy, counseling, and crisis support.
Many organizations offer free or low-cost services to help military members and their families deal with challenges like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. You can find support through local veteran services like the Virginia Veterans Services Foundation, the Hampton VA Medical Center, and the Norfolk Vet Center.
Alternatively, you can contact well-known national organizations like Veterans Affairs (VA), The Wounded Warrior Project, or The American Legion.
7. Peer and family support
Peer and family support is based on the lived experiences of individuals who have gone through similar challenges with mental health struggles or substance use recovery.
These support partners help individuals and their families overcome mental health or substance use obstacles and explore recovery options. These low-cost therapy services offer help to those in need and take a compassionate and community-driven approach to healing.
8. Crisis support
Many organizations offer affordable mental health services and 24/7 support to provide immediate assistance in times of need. Crisis support can include access to crisis hotlines, mobile crisis teams, and walk-in centers for care and guidance during life’s most difficult moments.
Access affordable behavioral health options with Region Five Crisis Crisis & Support Services
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, Region Five is here to help. Whether you’re facing a crisis or simply need someone to talk to, we offer a range of services to support your journey toward healing.
We are your central point of access to behavioral health support services in your community, beginning with our 24/7 Crisis Call Center.