Home » Cost » Counseling

Cost of Counseling Treatment and Therapy

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

18 minutes read

Find out about our free assessments and same day admissions process

We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help.

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides whole-person care for those experiencing various mental health concerns that affect their level of functioning and overall emotional well-being. With treatment locations in California, Washington, and Virginia, AMFM’s therapy sessions are focused on learning new, effective coping skills and incorporating self-care practices into your routine.

AMFM provides counseling treatment options for a range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD. Those who experience more than one mental health condition often benefit from dual diagnosis programs that provide simultaneous treatment for both conditions. If you have found that your mental health has made it challenging for you to complete your daily tasks or has created difficulties with your concentration or sleep patterns, we encourage you to call (866) 478-4383 today to explore our available treatment options!

What is Mental Health Counseling?

Mental health counseling is a professional service that helps individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. It involves working with a licensed counselor to explore personal issues, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being. Through talk therapy, people gain insights and learn techniques to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

Mental health counseling sessions can occur in a 1:1 setting with a licensed professional or within the safety of a group setting. Your therapy sessions can also help you develop a better understanding of your mental health concerns and what coping skills can be used to help you effectively cope with and manage your symptoms. These therapeutic sessions allow you to work towards healing pieces of yourself that you may not have had the resources or ability to address before. Many people find that participating in mental health treatment can help them find relief from their distress and improve their overall wellness and mental health. Counseling can also be a valuable mental health resource for those doing well in life, helping you find areas where you can continue to grow or support you when you notice early signs of a mental health concern.

Average Costs of Mental Health Counseling Assessments and Consults

The average cost of mental health counseling assessment and evaluations depends on the type of assessment used and the mental health professional you’re working with. Professionals with specialized training, additional credentials, and extensive degrees often have higher costs for their assessments, ranging from a couple hundred dollars or more.

Again, there can be significant variations in the cost of assessments based on the measures being used and the provider you’re working with. When you contact a mental health counseling provider, such as AMFM, you can receive direct quotes about the various costs associated with treatment.

How Much Do Untreated Mental Health Disorders Cost the US Annually?

Mental health conditions can have an impact on individuals experiencing symptoms, as well as their environments and those around them. U.S. News and World Report revealed that the average cost of mental health disorders each year in the United States is $282 billion. This represents about 1.7% of annual spending in the U.S.

With an estimated 20% of adults in the U.S. living with a mental health condition, it is understandable that it would have such a strong effect on our economy. The costs associated with mental health illnesses go beyond the cost of mental health counseling and medication management services. They tap into lost wages and productivity, the use of first responders and law enforcement, and the use of unemployment and financial assistance programs. So, while we may not see the effects that our mental health has on those around us, it may have a ripple effect that is bigger than we recognize.

Mental Health Disorder Statistics and Information in the United States

The prevalence of mental health conditions may be higher than you initially think, affecting 1 in 5 adults in America. Additionally, serious mental health conditions affect approximately 1 in 20 adults, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Mental health concerns can affect individuals of all ages, from childhood to older adults.

About half of Americans who experience a mental illness in their life began experiencing symptoms by the age of 14, whereas 75% began having symptoms by the time they were 24 years old. Some of the most common mental health conditions among adults in the U.S. include anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia.

Less than half of the adults in the U.S. who experienced a mental health concern received treatment, while an estimated 65% of those living with a serious mental health concern received treatment. Many individuals do not seek help when they begin experiencing mental health symptoms. In fact, the average delay between the onset of symptoms and receiving help for a mental health concern is 11 years. Mental health concerns are often progressive, which means that symptoms can intensify and worsen without proper treatment. Because of this, we encourage you to call us today to explore nearby counseling treatment options!

Free & Confidential Mental Health Testing, Evaluations, and Assessments

The cost of mental health treatment is a barrier for many who are struggling with their mental health, especially for those who do not have insurance coverage. To help decrease barriers to treatment, A Mission For Michael (AMFM) offers complementary and confidential evaluations and assessments for those who are experiencing a range of mental health concerns.

Our free and private assessment focuses on identifying your current symptoms and challenges so that we can provide you with an accurate referral for treatment. We can discuss our available treatment programs and help you determine which option is ideal for you. Our clinical team is here to help you make an informed decision about your care. Call AMFM today to get started with your free assessment!

What Types of Programs Are Available for Mental Health Counseling Near Me?

Counseling programs are available in varying levels of intensity to support individuals who are experiencing a range of mental health symptoms and concerns. Treatment options can have varying durations to ensure you receive the care you need for optimal wellness and mental health. Some of the treatment programs you may encounter include, but are not limited to:

Mental Health Counseling Residential Treatment Programs

Residential treatment programs that offer mental health counseling provide you with round-the-clock support and guidance while focusing on helping you develop the skills and knowledge you need to effectively cope with and manage your symptoms in your home environment. These programs often incorporate individual therapy, group therapy, and support group sessions.

Several psychotherapy techniques can be used in a residential treatment program, which will be based on your unique needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Mental Health Counseling PHPs

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) can provide intensive outpatient care that resembles an inpatient treatment program. You will still receive a full day of structured and evidence-based treatments, with the key difference being that you’re able to return home or to a group home for the evenings and weekends.

PHPs can include group therapy, individual therapy, support groups, and life skills training to help you make the progress needed to step down to a less intensive treatment program.

Mental Health Counseling IOPs

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are another outpatient treatment program known for providing comprehensive care. This treatment option is less intensive than a PHP but still includes nine to 15 hours of treatment each week. This time includes both group and individual therapy sessions. Depending on your needs, you may be able to participate in specialized treatment, including medication management services.

Mental Health Counseling Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment programs are a flexible treatment option tailored to your needs. This can include group therapy, individual therapy, medication management services, or a combination of these to provide comprehensive care. In most cases, as you see noticeable differences in your symptoms, the frequency of your sessions often decreases.

How to Find a Mental Health Counseling Program Near Me?

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides a variety of treatment options that can help individuals experiencing psychological health concerns so that they can work towards improving their cognitive functioning and overall mental health and wellness. Contact us today at (866) 478-4383 to explore available counseling options!

California

Virginia

Washington

California

Virginia

Washington

How Much Does Mental Health Counseling Cost Without Insurance?

On average, individual therapy fees range between $100 to $200 per session without the use of insurance coverage. These fees often fluctuate depending on the counselor’s qualifications, experience, location where the counseling treatment is administered, and multiple other factors. Having more than one session per week increases the cost of your treatment.

You can expect that your counseling costs will be unique to you and your treatment schedule. It is not uncommon for treatment schedules to change as you make progress, which means that your therapy cost breakdown shifts. For further details and assistance with covering therapy fees or how to pay for treatment, contact AMFM today.

How Much Does Mental Health Counseling Cost with Insurance Support?

When you’re able to use health insurance coverage, you will likely notice that counseling therapy costs are more affordable. Insurance companies typically offer a range of benefits that include varying coverage levels, which directly impact the overall cost of mental health services.

If you would like to learn about the cost of therapy fees with your insurance, we encourage you to complete the online insurance verification form with AMFM. This form provides us with the information we need to contact your insurance company directly to learn about the details of your insurance plan. Once we have the relevant information, we can then apply it to our treatment program and provide you with a better idea of mental health care costs.

Does Health Insurance Cover the Costs of Mental Health Counseling?

Yes, insurance coverage for mental health counseling is usually available, including treatment for a variety of mental health disorders and the use of behavioral and cognitive therapies. Coverage for psychotherapy is an important detail in the 2010 Affordable Care Act, stating that insurance providers must provide some form of coverage.

The coverage you receive depends on several factors, including your insurance carrier and the details of your plan. You can have a range of out-of-pocket costs for mental health counseling in the form of copayments, deductibles, and premiums. Contact AMFM today to verify your insurance coverage and learn about the extent of your insurance coverage for mental health counseling.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover the Costs of Prescribed Medications?

Yes! Insurance companies typically cover some, if not most, of the costs of medications used to treat various psychiatric conditions. The coverage you receive depends on who your insurance carrier is and the details of your prescription drug coverage. You may have copayments or deductibles associated with your prescription drug coverage or limitations on name-brand medications.

Medications can be prescribed by mental health professionals who have the proper educational background and clinical experience, including psychiatrists, primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Explore your insurance provider’s drug formulary or contact AMFM for assistance in determining your coverage details for prescribed medications.

Which Health Insurance Providers Cover the Costs of Counseling Near Me?

As we mentioned earlier, insurance companies are required by the 2010 Affordable Care Act to provide coverage for mental health. Examples of insurance providers who include coverage for mental health counseling at A Mission For Michael (AMFM) include Cigna, ComPsych, Kaiser Permanente, Magellan Health, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Coverage rates for these insurance companies and others can vary, as they each offer unique brands and services to meet the needs of their policyholders. This can affect your expenses, including deductibles and co-pay for therapy.

Table of Contents

Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

General Inquiry Form

Complete the form below to receive a prompt call back from a member of our experienced and compassionate admissions staff. All communication is 100% Confidential.

More Resources

Testimonials

Hear from clients and their family's experiences

Learn More

2023 Outcome Data

Latest metrics on the effectiveness of our care

See Results

Check your insurance coverage.

We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help.

Average Out of Pocket Costs for Counseling Residential Treatment Programs

The cost of mental health counseling in a residential treatment program is dependent on several factors. A 2020 study indicated that the average cost for mental health hospitalizations was $136 per day, which was lower than the costs associated with those receiving inpatient treatment for suicide attempts and hospitalizations for medical health concerns.

Factors influencing your treatment costs include the duration of your care, access to high-end amenities and services, and the expertise of the clinical team you work with. Your fees include the cost of housing and food, as these are included within your care. In most cases, private mental health treatment facilities cost more than public facilities. Medicaid for mental health counseling, for example, is typically synonymous with low-cost mental health services.

What are the Average Out of Pocket Costs for Counseling PHPs?

Partial hospitalization programs tend to vary in cost based on where you live and the services included in your treatment. GoodRx indicated that the cost of partial hospitalization programming can range from $300 per day to $1000 or more per day. If you have complex mental health concerns, treatment often incurs higher costs.

Medication management and other services within a PHP can add to the overall cost. The treatment duration will also affect out-of-pocket expenses, many of which can be significantly reduced with mental health insurance.

What are the Average Out of Pocket Costs for Counseling IOPs?

Mental health care costs are one of the biggest barriers that individuals experience when it comes to accessing mental health treatment. The overall cost of IOPs can vary based on the location of the treatment facility, access to high-end mental health resources and amenities, the frequency of programming, and the duration of your care.

In general, the cost of IOPs can range from $5,000 to $10,000 per month or $250 to $500 per day. We encourage contacting a treatment provider, like AMFM, regarding affordable counseling options.

What are the Average Out of Pocket Costs for Counseling Outpatient Programs?

Counseling fees for outpatient treatment are dependent on several factors, including which type of counseling you engage in. As an example, group therapy tends to be more affordable than individual sessions. In most cases, counseling cost per hour/session falls within $100 to $200. This number can, of course, fluctuate based on your location and your clinician’s background.

Outpatient treatment programs are highly individualized programs tailored to each individual to ensure that they receive the appropriate mental health support. There may be a noticeable difference between public and private practice rates for mental health counseling.

How Much Does Psychiatry Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?

When you work with a psychiatrist, your treatment costs may be higher compared to working with a mental health counselor, especially without using health insurance coverage. Counseling session pricing for psychiatrists can range from $250 to $300 for a 30 to 60-minute session, based on the care you receive, the location of your treatment provider, and your provider’s clinical background.

A significant component that can affect the cost of care is the additional education and training that psychiatrists have. You may also have extra prescription fees if you’re receiving medication management services.

What is the Admission Process for Counseling Programs at AMFM?

For some of us, having an idea of what to expect with something new can help us get to a point where we are ready to be vulnerable and try it. Let’s take a moment to review the typical components of the admission process to address any unknown features:

Initial Contact: Before you can begin mental health counseling, you first need to speak with your chosen treatment provider. The purpose of an initial consultation is to connect with a care provider and help them understand your current symptoms and concerns.
Assessment and Evaluation: After you have contacted a treatment provider, you will then participate in an assessment that focuses on your current symptoms, difficulties, and overall mental health history. This information allows the treatment center to determine if their programs are a good fit for you and your symptoms.
Insurance Verification and Coverage: The next step is to provide your insurance information so your treatment provider can verify your insurance. During this process, they will inquire about the scope of your coverage and determine your expected out-of-pocket expenses.
Treatment Plan Development: Your clinical team will take the information gathered in your assessment to develop a treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and helps you develop the skills you need to effectively manage your symptoms.
Admissions Coordination: Once you have the necessary paperwork completed, your Admission Counselors will then help you arrange your admission. Depending on your needs, this can include the day of admission and transportation to the treatment facility.
Orientation and Program Introduction: Once you arrive at the treatment facility, you will then be given an introduction to the treatment program, which often includes a tour of the facility and meeting with some of the mental health professionals you’d be working with.
Active Participation in Treatment: Once you have completed the previous steps and the necessary paperwork, you will then be able to engage in treatment. Be sure to follow your treatment schedule and actively participate in your treatment.
Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: As you continue engaging in treatment, your professional team will monitor your progress to ensure that you’re on the right track and getting closer to achieving your treatment goals.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Mental Health Counseling Programs?

Several factors contribute to counseling therapy costs near you, so let’s take a moment to explore these. Hopefully, This can help you understand the variations you see within counseling costs, allowing you to make an informed decision about your treatment. Examples of factors that affect mental healthcare costs include:

Type of Therapy: In most cases, group therapy tends to be more affordable than individual therapy. There are also notable price differences when using a specialized treatment approach that requires additional training and experience.
Therapist’s Qualifications and Experience: Therapists and counselors with advanced degrees, licenses, or certifications may have higher fees to reflect the specialized knowledge they can apply to treatment.
Therapist’s Reputation and Demand: In some cases, therapists known for providing effective treatment have higher costs for counseling due to their reputation and reviews.
Location: Counseling prices often vary based on their geographical location and are affected by the cost of living. For example, therapists in urban settings may have higher costs than those in rural pockets of the country.
Length and Frequency of Sessions: Therapy sessions can vary in length and may be 45, 50, 60, or 90 minutes. This, along with the frequency of your sessions, will directly impact the counseling costs.
Insurance Coverage: Those who utilize mental health coverage for counseling often have access to more affordable counseling options compared to those who don’t. Coverage rates are dependent on your insurance provider and the details of your plan.

Out-of-Pocket vs. Insurance Coverage: Insurance coverage for counseling can greatly reduce your counseling costs compared to paying for the full cost of treatment yourself.
Sliding Scale or Financial Assistance: When paying out of pocket, therapists and counselors may offer sliding scale fees, which can help make your payments for treatment more affordable because they would be based on your income and other financial responsibilities.

Alternative Ways to Find Mental Health Counseling Near Me

Those who are experiencing mental health concerns or challenges often benefit from professional support and treatment. There are multiple ways that you can go about finding mental health counseling nearby. We encourage you to try using the following steps in your search:

Online Therapy Platforms: You can begin by exploring your telehealth options. It is important to note that there are some mental health concerns or conditions that are not well-suited for virtual help. Treatment providers will help you understand your options based on your unique needs.
Community Mental Health Centers: You may have access to mental health counseling programs within your local community mental health centers. If your community centers do not offer these treatment services, they may be knowledgeable about nearby low-cost mental health services or subsidized therapy programs.
University Counseling Services: Affordable counseling options are often found at local universities. Some universities and colleges offer counseling services at a reduced price for those receiving services from students in training.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Employers who provide access to EAP services may have counseling and case management services for employees and their families experiencing various mental health conditions.
Primary Care Physician Referrals: You can reach out to your primary health physician regarding your mental health concerns and ask for referrals for affordable mental health treatment in your community. They may be knowledgeable about low-cost counseling options appropriate for your needs.

Statistics and Information on Mental Health Counseling Programs in the Us

Statistics and Information on Mental Health Counseling Programs in the US

Approximately 65% of adults living with a severe mental health condition in the U.S. do not receive treatment. Less than half of adults living with any mental health condition do receive treatment.
Statista indicated that there were 12,275 mental health treatment facilities in the U.S. during 2022.
The most common types of mental health treatment programs in 2022 included outpatient treatment facilities, partial hospitalization programming, residential, and inpatient treatment programs.
Common barriers that can keep Americans from accessing the mental health counseling and other treatment they need include access to appropriate providers, inadequate insurance coverage, and expensive out-of-pocket expenses.
Rates of treatment participation were highest among adults between the ages of 45 and 64 years old, followed by those 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The American Counseling Association (ACA) indicated that 47% of U.S. residents live in an area with limited access to mental health treatment programs.

Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.

Contact

Call