Virtual Therapy for balance and mental wellness in a busy world.
Affordable Therapy Options: Support Is Closer Than You Think!
If you’ve been thinking about starting therapy but hesitating because of cost, you’re not alone. Many people delay mental health support—not because they don’t need it, but because they assume therapy is financially out of reach.
Here’s the truth: affordable options for therapy do exist, and you may already qualify for one without realizing it.
On this page, you’ll learn about three ways to access therapy at a reduced or no cost:
Using Employee Assistance Program (EAP) benefits
Sliding scale fees
Free or low-cost programs for individuals facing financial hardship
Keep reading to better understand your options clearly, so cost doesn’t become the reason you continue struggling alone.
Option 1: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Benefits
Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) as part of their benefits package. Sadly, a surprising number of people never use them.
An EAP typically provides a limited number of therapy sessions at no cost to you, paid for entirely by your employer. These sessions are confidential and designed to support you during times of stress, transition, or emotional overwhelm.
What EAP Therapy Can Help With
EAP sessions can support concerns such as:
Work-related stress or burnout
Anxiety or low mood
Relationship or family challenges
Life transitions
Financial or caregiving stress
You do not need to be in crisis to use EAP benefits. They are meant to be preventative and supportive.
Why EAP Is a Smart First Step
No copays or out-of-pocket costs
Fast access to care
A low-risk way to try therapy
Confidential and separate from your job performance
Check Your EAP Benefits ToDAY
Log into your employer’s benefits portal or contact HR to ask:
“Do I have Employee Assistance Program benefits, and which providers are in-network?”
Jessica Herd, LMHC-D is an EAP provider through Spring Health and Alma.
If my practice is listed with your EAP provider, you can often schedule your first session within days. If you’re unsure how to check, I’m happy to help guide you.
Option 2: Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
If you don’t have EAP benefits—or if your EAP sessions have ended—sliding scale therapy may be an accessible next option.
A sliding scale fee means the cost of therapy is adjusted based on factors such as income, financial responsibilities, and current life circumstances. This option exists because mental health care should not be limited only to those with financial flexibility.
Who Sliding Scale Therapy Is For
Sliding scale therapy may be a good fit if you:
Are self-employed or freelance
Are between jobs or underemployed
Have high living expenses or student loan debt
Are paying out-of-pocket for care
This option is offered on a limited basis to ensure sustainability and fairness across clients.
What to Expect
A transparent conversation about fees
No judgment or pressure
Clear expectations before starting
Asking about a sliding scale is not asking for a favor—it’s advocating for your health.
Ask About MY Sliding Scale Availability
If you’re interested in working together and cost is a concern, Jessica Herd, LMHC-D offers a Reduced Payment Plan Program, similar to a sliding scale fee. Select this option through my contact form. Availability is limited, so it’s best to ask sooner rather than waiting until stress escalates further.
Option 3: Free or Low-Cost Mental Health Programs
There are also community-based programs and public resources that offer free or reduced-cost mental health services, particularly for individuals facing financial hardship or systemic barriers to care.
These programs may be funded by local governments, nonprofits, or public health initiatives and can include:
Short-term counseling
Group therapy
Referrals to low-cost providers
Who These Programs Support
Individuals without insurance
People experiencing financial instability
Students or recent graduates
Caregivers and essential workers
While availability varies by location, these programs can be an important bridge to care.
Start Your Research Today
Here are a couple of organizations that offer reduced or free therapy that Jessica Herd, LMHC-D is partnered with:
If cost is a significant barrier right now, explore local and national mental health directories or reach out for guidance. Taking even one small step—making a call, sending an email—can move you closer to support.
Why Acting Now Matters
Affordable therapy options exist now, but many have limited availability or waitlists. The sooner you explore your options, the more choice and flexibility you’ll have.
Putting your mental health needs on the backburner and waiting until things feel “bad enough” or too unmanageable makes healing harder, not easier. The effects of stress compounds, and the impact on your life and relationships will continue to worsen.
You deserve support before reaching a breaking point.
How to Choose the Right Option for You
If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a simple guide:
Have employer benefits? Start with EAP.
No EAP, but some flexibility? Ask about sliding scale therapy.
Facing significant financial hardship? Explore free or low-cost programs.
There is no “wrong” entry point into therapy—only the next step.
Ready to Move Forward?
If you’re reading this, something in you already knows it’s time to prioritize your mental health.
Whether you’re using EAP benefits, exploring a sliding scale, or researching community programs, support is available—and you don’t have to navigate this alone.
👉 Next Steps
Check your EAP benefits today
Inquire about sliding scale availability
Reach out for guidance on low-cost resources
Relief often begins with one informed decision. This could be yours today.