It might be the understatement of the year to say that the past 11 months have been incredibly difficult for everyone. We’ve seen an increase in depression, anxiety, stress and substance use. People who weren’t previously struggling with these mental health problems saw them themselves in situations that far exceeded their coping skills with the accumulation of the COVID-19 pandemic, political unrest, and a racial justice movement. We all seem to just be waiting for it all to end and to get back to normal. However, when speaking specifically about the pandemic, Dr. Sandro Galeao states, “Even if we can halt the physical spread of a disease through the expeditious use of quarantine and social distancing, we will still have to contend with its mental health effects in the long-term.”

For many, seeking therapy is no longer tied with stigma but it is attached to a time and financial investment that keeps them from getting professional help. If you fall into this group of people, here are some things to think about:

What is not getting therapy costing you?

Mental health problems can come at a financial cost that we don’t often think about. You may see a monetary hit if you are calling in to work frequently, or having to retake college classes. The lack of energy and motivation that accompanies depression can lead to not being able to fulfill responsibilities which can lead to serious repercussions such as failing courses or not being able to maintain a job.

Other side effects that come with depression, PTSD, and anxiety is increased drug and alcohol use. New studies show that there has been a 14% increase in alcohol consumption during the pandemic. Others are turning to online shopping as a short reprieve. In one session, I had a client explain that she couldn’t afford to join group therapy due to the cost but in the same breath disclosed spending twice the amount of group costs on alcohol in one week.

Other ways that not seeking therapy can cost you is in decreased effectiveness or satisfaction in relationships, decreased physical health and quality in life, all of which have long lasting effects.

But I don’t have time for therapy…

Many people look at their busy schedules and think there is no way they have time to set aside an hour a week for sessions. With work, classes, extracurricular activities, families, and other responsibilities, it can be really difficult to feel motivated to add one more thing to our plates. Many people also tend to believe that once you start therapy, you stay in it for years. However, with many therapists switching to online therapy, many current clients are seeing a decrease in time management struggles. I’ve seen students during study hall, adults during their lunch break, and parents while they wait in the car during their kid’s baseball practice. Furthermore, there are different types of therapy that don’t require years of therapy. CPT therapy, used for trauma, is a 12 week treatment and DBT, used for people with mood disorders, is a year long treatment that then tappers off.

Things to Consider When Choosing to Invest in Therapy

If you are still considering therapy but are a little nervous about the time and financial investment, here are some of my tips:

Consider Your Budget

First, take a look at your budget for a month. How much money is coming in and how much money of going out and on what? When I was in grad school entering my internship, I found myself having to find $500 a month to pay for childcare. I was amazed at how cutting back on subscriptions, switching phone plans, and becoming mindful of my spending could add up to the money I needed!

Talk to Your Insurance About Out of Network Reimbursements

Second, call your insurance company and ask about reimbursements. Many insurance companies will reimburse a certain percentage of out of network costs. Some companies are even reimbursing 100% of out of network costs due to the pandemic! We have some tips for talking to your insurance about your out of network benefits on our website. It can be an annoying process to get reimbursed, but many of our clients are able to get back a large portion of what they pay for therapy services and find it’s worth the time!

Ask About a Sliding Scale

Third, ask about sliding scales. Many therapists have a certain number of clients they are able to see at a reduced fee. Check to see what therapists offer sliding scales and how much their reduced fee is.

Consider Spreading Out Your Therapy Sessions

Finally, ask your therapist if it is appropriate for you to have less frequent sessions. Some treatments require weekly sessions but not all do. As mentioned earlier, others require weekly sessions for a period of time and then allow for clients to tapper off. It’s perfectly acceptable to talk to your therapist about your budget and have them help you problem solve.

Share Your Concerns

Before deciding you can’t invest in therapy, talk to a therapist. At Aspire Counseling, you can schedule a free consultation with our therapists to discuss presenting issues and investment concerns.

About the Author

Diana Hughes is a provisionally licensed counselor with a background in education. She works with adolescents and adults. Her focus is on trauma and DBT as well as depression and anxiety. Diana also a native Spanish speaker that provides services in Spanish. Through online therapy, Diana is able to help individuals living anywhere in the state of Missouri. For more information contact our client coordinator at 573-328-2288 .