Paying for care
Cost should not stop you from getting help. Here is who pays for what, and where to find free and low cost care.
Who pays for therapy?
| If you have | What usually happens | Find care |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | Every state's Medicaid pays for mental health care. What it covers and who you can see varies by state. | Takes Medicaid |
| Medicare | Covers therapy and psychiatry. Since 2024 it also covers licensed counselors and marriage and family therapists. | Takes Medicare |
| Job or Marketplace insurance | Mental health is covered, and most plans must cover it like other medical care. | Find a therapist |
| VA health care | Veterans can get mental health care through the VA and Vet Centers. | Served & Supported |
| No insurance | Community clinics, sliding scale fees, training clinics, and free groups. | Sliding scale |
Medicaid
Medicaid is the largest payer for mental health care in the country. It usually covers therapy, medication, case management, and crisis care, and many states cover peer support. If your income is low, you may qualify. Apply through your state Medicaid agency or HealthCare.gov.
Medicare
Medicare Part B covers outpatient therapy and psychiatry, and a yearly depression screening. Starting in 2024, Medicare also pays licensed mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists. Part D covers most psychiatric medications. Ask if the provider "accepts Medicare assignment" to keep costs lower.
Private insurance
Under the federal parity law, most health plans must cover mental health and substance use care no more strictly than other medical care. That includes copays, visit limits, and prior approval.
- Call the number on your card and ask for in-network mental health providers.
- Ask about out-of-network benefits if you want someone not on the list.
- If a claim is denied, you can appeal. Ask the plan in writing for the reason.
- Check for an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at work. Many offer a few free counseling sessions.
Free and low cost care
- Community mental health centers and CCBHCs serve people regardless of ability to pay.
- Sliding scale fees are based on your income. Ask any provider.
- Training clinics at universities offer low cost therapy with supervised students.
- Support groups and warmlines are usually free.
- College counseling centers are free or low cost for students.
Search free services or sliding scale services in your state.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Programs, phone lines, and rules change. Check with the program named on this page. Report outdated or wrong information.