How Much Does Teen Therapy Cost? — Talkspace

In-person or online therapy for teen counseling can be a vital tool in providing the support teens need to thrive. If you think your child could benefit from therapy but are wondering how much teen therapy costs, read on to learn more. This guide will break down the factors influencing counseling and therapy costs for teens, ways to manage expenses, and affordable options for getting your teen the support they need.

Average Cost of Teen Therapy

The cost of teen therapy can vary depending on several factors, including the type of therapy, the therapist’s experience, and whether insurance is involved. Without insurance, a therapy session for child therapy typically ranges from $60 to $150. However, if you have insurance, your out-of-pocket costs could drop significantly, usually between $20 and $60 per session.

Factors That Influence Teen Therapy Costs

The cost of therapy for teens can vary based on several key factors, including the type of therapy, the therapist’s qualifications and experience, your location, and the length of each session.

Type of therapy

The type of therapy your teen needs can significantly impact the overall cost. Here’s a breakdown of some common types of therapy for teens:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Commonly used for issues like anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, CBT for teens is generally a mid-range option in terms of cost.
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): Often used for teens with emotional regulation issues, DBT for teens is more specialized and may come with a higher price tag.
• Art or music therapy: Creative therapies can be highly effective for teens. If they’re struggling to find the right words to fit their emotions and feelings, different forms of expression can provide relief. These forms of therapy typically cost less than traditional talk therapy.
• Trauma-focused therapy: Trauma-focused therapy is a subtype of CBT, often best for teens who have experienced significant trauma. However, it can also be the most expensive because it usually requires many sessions over a 10- to 12-week period

Provider credentials

Location

Geography can significantly influence therapy costs. Urban areas generally have higher costs than rural ones due to higher demand and increased operating expenses. For families in smaller towns or rural locations, online therapy can be a cost-effective alternative, often costing less than in-person therapy while providing similar levels of teen counseling care.

Session length

A typical therapy session lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Longer sessions may cost more, but the ideal length depends on your teen’s unique needs. Shorter sessions may be a better option for younger teens or when focusing on specific issues. Your therapist may also offer lower rates for booking packages of multiple sessions. 

“While therapy is not one size fits all, and it takes time for the therapist and teen to get to know one another, the key component is building a trusting relationship. You might find that sometimes it feels like the session drags on and on because you aren’t sure what to talk about, and other times it flies by because you have so much to say. In general, 45-50 minutes for a session allows for enough time to discuss any ongoing concerns and practice any skills or strategies that may be needed.”

– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R

How To Pay for Your Teen’s Therapy

If you’re concerned about the cost of therapy for your teen, several strategies and resources are available to mitigate expenses. 

Check your health insurance

Utilize FSAs or HSAs

If your employer offers a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), these can help a lot with costs, too. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, which may include therapy sessions for your children. This can help lower the financial burden while ensuring your teen gets the right care. Be sure to keep all documentation for your expenses and claims, as they might be required to verify your eligibility. 

Consider sliding-scale arrangements

Some providers offer sliding-scale therapy fees based on income to make therapy more accessible. Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist if they offer this option. It can be an excellent way to find affordable therapy without compromising quality.

Look into school resources

Search for free or low-cost mental health resources