Need Therapy But It’s Too Expensive? Affordable Options in Metro Detroit
Mental health care can be frustratingly out of reach, even if you have insurance. High deductibles, steep co-pays, or limited in-network providers can make therapy feel impossible to access. If you're uninsured or underinsured, you're not alone. This isn’t how it should be. We need to continue advocating for affordable, accessible care in Michigan. In the meantime, there are options to make therapy more affordable, it’s just about knowing how to find them. Let me help!
Sliding Scale Pricing
Many therapists offer sliding scale rates for clients who are uninsured or underinsured. This can significantly lower the cost of therapy. Fully licensed therapists may offer sessions for as low as $60, and some even reserve a few pro-bono (free) spots on their caseload. If you find a therapist you feel a connection with, it’s always worth asking if they have any sliding scale or free spots available! I know that when folks as me about this, I’ll try my hardest to work within their means or refer them to other great therapists who may be able to help.
A great resource for this is Open Path Collective, which connects clients with therapists offering lower-cost sessions.
Therapy Groups
Group therapy can be another accessible option, with rates typically ranging from $25 to $50 per session. Many local practices run groups focused on specific issues like anxiety, relationships, or grief. You can use Psychology Today’s group filter to search for therapy groups in your area.
An added benefit to choosing a group is that you’ll get to learn from the other people in the group. There’s no doubt that we could all benefit from this type of connection and support. At Middle Way Wellness, we have some group options that you can check out here.
Working with a Graduate Student
Most counseling programs require students to complete a semester in a university’s free counseling center as part of their training. These centers offer short-term therapy-usually around 15 weeks-with a graduate student counselor. While your sessions may be recorded and reviewed by supervisors to support the student’s training, many people find this to be a great, no-cost way to try therapy.
Here are some local university counseling centers offering free services:
Working with a Counseling Intern
Counseling interns are completing the final stage of their master’s degree and are often available at a reduced rate-usually between $30 and $75 per session in Metro Detroit. They’ve already worked in university counseling centers, taken all required courses, and are supervised as they gain hands-on experience. Interns are often eager, well-trained, and current on the latest approaches to therapy.
You can find interns through:
Local private practice websites
At Middle Way Wellness, we bring on a counseling intern each year. We’re passionate about supporting new therapists, especially those interested in somatic therapy and mindfulness. You can learn more about our current intern and how to work with her here.
I hope this review of options can be helpful to you as you search for affordable therapy!
