The importance of mental and behavioral health is progressively being recognized more and more. Health insurance companies are beginning to provide coverage to those who are seeking help in behavioral health. According to HealthCare.gov, mental health services are now considered essential and must be included in all health plans. Of course, the extent of your benefits relies on the state you live in and the insurance plan you choose.
Which there lies the ultimate question; what type of therapy is most cost-effective in North Carolina?
If You Have Health Insurance – Use It
With health insurance, your options for therapy are not as limited as it may feel. Your first option should always be to contact your insurance provider and find an in-network mental and behavioral health provider near you.
Not only is insurance beneficial for those who are looking for therapy, but it can provide a safety net for any emergency that may arise. You can apply for health insurance through your state, your employer (if it is offered), or through private insurance companies.
At MindPath, we accept a number of health insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and more. Learn more about our different providers and what insurances we accept.
Sliding Scales & Payment Plans
A variety of therapists offer a sliding scale – this allows people with fewer resources to be eligible to pay a lower fee. A sliding scale is typically determined based on your income and can be as low as $10 an appointment.
Another option that is available at numerous therapy locations is a payment plan. Perhaps your insurance covers a portion of the appointment and you are left with a remaining balance or – if you do not have insurance, a payment plan may be an option as well.
A payment plan, again, is typically based on your income. If you are considering using either of these options, you may be required to provide proof of income. Be sure to ask the provider any questions that you may have and provide all documentation that may be requested.
Group Therapy
Group therapy can be a cheaper option than one-on-one sessions.
This is because the therapist’s time is divided between multiple group members. Group therapy is a great resource not only for help from a therapist, but to listen to other’s stories and understand that you’re surrounded by people that are going through similar situations as you may be.
Group Therapy can be beneficial due to the lower costs, but it can offer many benefits as well. Group Therapy can help individuals with self-awareness, communication skills, support, and successful behaviors that others in the group may be modeling.
MindPath Care Centers is currently offering multiple group therapy programs – and they’re both online during the pandemic. Click the links to learn more about SHINE: Find Your Light Emotion Regulation group and The Daring Way Group™: Wholehearted Living
Support Groups – Get your foot in the door
Support groups are an excellent option if you’re wanting someone to talk to, learn how to improve your behaviors, and more. Support groups are commonly seen in tv shows and movies as people sitting in a circle and introducing themselves.
A support group is a group of people with common experiences that share stories, offer support, and comfort. They may be offered through nonprofit organizations, churches, schools, clinics, hospitals, and community organizations. Support groups are typically free of cost.
According to Life Stance, group therapy is designed to help others change, while support groups are designed to help others cope. This can be a con depending on what you are struggling with, therefore it is important to ask questions. You can find support groups online or through your primary care physician.
Free Options
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a free nationwide support system that provides information, such as: resources, referrals, and support to those struggling with mental health.
NeedyMeds.com has a list of free and low-cost clinics across North Carolina.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Live Online Chat
