Finding a therapist free has many advantages for those who need mental health and cognitive and behavioral techniques support but cannot afford traditional therapy services.
For starters, there are therapists and emotional support options available for free, which we have covered extensively. If you want resources on how where you can find these free therapist options online, keep reading below for our condensed list.
However, many providers offer a free trial or preview of their services. After the trial period, you will typically be charged a weekly or monthly fee for regular therapy sessions.
In this article, we will cover the benefits of free therapy. Some of these benefits are obvious – like allowing people access to treatment who may not otherwise have been able to do so due to financial constraints. However, there are a few benefits you may not have thought of!
Plus, we’ll talk about online therapy and general and what you can expect to work with a therapist for free. Let’s dive in!
Please be aware that our goal at Online Mental Health Reviews is to contribute to the normalization and clarification of mental health.
This video playlist provides a list of 6 resources that can be used to look for an optimal health provider near you, as well as 11 mental health treatments that are either free or available at a reduced cost.
Before making any choice, you can obtain more pertinent information by filtering the search results according to factors such as location, ethnicity, and insurance coverage.
We sincerely hope that the remaining content of the post is both helpful and educational for you.
Please use the comment section below to let us know which mental health service you would like us to purchase and test next, as well as any other queries you may have.

List of Free Therapist Benefits
Working with a therapist in any paid or free capacity can provide all or some of the following benefits, assuming you go through the process of finding a therapist who resonates with you:
- Improve Relationships — Seeing a therapist for free can help you gain insight into unresolved patterns of your relationships, bringing awareness to unhealthy behaviors that can be addressed and improved.
- Reduce Stress — Talking through your concerns and worries with a professional can provide relief from stress and allow you to feel more control over your life.
- Grow Self-Awareness — A therapist can work with you to increase self-awareness to better understand the roots of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
- Identify Behavioral Habits — Free therapy sessions can allow you to identify any patterns of behavior or habits which could lead to dysfunction down the line if not addressed early on.
- Develop Coping Skills — By having a safe space to express difficult emotions, you can develop new techniques for dealing with distress in healthier ways.
- Feel Supported — It’s important to have someone unbiased on whom you can rely on support without judgment. Free counseling sessions offer just that; a place where you know that someone is looking out for your best interests and understands what it’s like to struggle with emotional issues regularly.
- Improve Mood — Therapy can help to lessen depression, anger, and anxiety, allowing for greater happiness and overall satisfaction with life.
- Process Trauma — Having an experienced professional there to talk through past or current traumatic events can provide support and help you cope better with their aftermath.
- Enhance Self-Esteem — With the ability to reflect on one’s accomplishments and potential in a safe environment, self-esteem can be increased without fear of judgment.
- Develop Social Skills — Identifying how to navigate relationships and interactions with others is essential for making meaningful connections in friendships, work, and other important areas of life.
- Increase Productivity — Free therapy sessions are the perfect space to gain insight into why you may feel stuck or unmotivated in certain aspects of life; learning what gets in way of productivity is the first step towards taking actionable steps forward towards success.
- Manage Symptoms — Working through difficult emotions at therapy can decrease physical symptoms; headaches, nausea, stomach pain, etc caused by stress hormones released during times of intense emotions like anger or sadness
- Create Change — Most importantly free therapy sessions allow individuals to gain insight into the foundations of their experience so that lasting change can be created over time within themselves.
- Acceptance — By recognizing your story as it now brings acceptance to yourself that helps you make peace with who you currently are while also knowing that growth potential always exists if desired.
- Gain Clarity About Life Choices — With another perspective from a neutral point of view, it’s easier to gain clarity about major decisions or goals in life without pressure from external sources.
Where Can I Find A Free Therapist Online?
Here are some free online therapy and counseling resources. These services don’t just help with depression; they also help with a wide range of other mental health issues.
- Free online therapy and counseling services are offered by 7 Cups (https://www.7cups.com/).
- BuddyHelp: Provides free emotional support, chat, and online therapy (https://buddyhelp.org/)
- Free Online Therapy: Provides a week of free therapy (https://freeonlinetherapy.org/).
- The Hope Line: Select a mental health issue, such as depression or suicide, and speak with trained therapists for free (https://www.thehopeline.com/).
How much can free online therapy cost?
If you’re looking for free online therapy sessions, it’s important to note that while some services may offer a free trial or preview, regular therapy sessions typically come at a cost.
Prices can vary depending on the provider, location, and length of the session. For example, Free Online Therapy (https://freeonlinetherapy.org) offers 4 initial sessions for free, but then for additional sessions, you must have payment in place.
Overall, you should expect to pay between $40-$150 per session for an online therapy session, after you finish your free trial.
For proof of an affordable option available for those without insurance or on a tight budget see Open Path Collective which charges $40-$70 per session (https://openpathcollective.org/).
Can free online therapy help?
If you’re wondering whether free online therapy can help, the answer is yes.
While it may not be a substitute for in-person or paid therapy which is generally speaking higher quality, free online therapy can still provide valuable support and resources for those who may not have access to traditional therapy or cannot afford it.
Here are some benefits of free online therapy:
- Provides a safe and confidential space to talk about your mental health concerns
- Offers flexibility with scheduling and location
- Can connect you with licensed therapists or trained volunteers who can offer emotional support and guidance
- May include resources such as articles, videos, and worksheets to help manage symptoms
It’s important to note that not all free online therapy services are created equal, and it’s essential to do your research before choosing one.
How does free online therapy work?
If you’re wondering how free online therapy works, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, it’s important to note that not all online therapy services are free, and those that are may have limitations on the types of services they offer. Here are some key points to consider:
- Free online therapy can be delivered through text-based messaging, live chat sessions, or video conferencing with a licensed therapist.
- Some services may offer free or discounted therapy to certain groups, such as veterans or people with low income.
- While free online therapy can be a great option for some people, it’s important to remember that it may not be suitable for everyone. Some research suggests that in-person therapy may be more effective for certain mental health conditions.
- If you’re considering free online therapy, the American Psychological Association recommends doing your research and choosing a reputable provider1. Look for services that are backed by scientific evidence and have positive reviews from other users.
Is free online therapy effective?
If you’re wondering whether free online therapy is effective, the answer is not a simple yes or no.
While some studies suggest that online therapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person therapy, it’s important to consider the pros and cons before choosing this option.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Online therapy can be more convenient and accessible than in-person therapy, especially for those who live in remote areas or have mobility issues.
- Free online therapy may not always involve licensed professionals, so it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting quality care.
- Some people may prefer the anonymity of online therapy, while others may find it harder to build a strong therapeutic relationship without face-to-face interaction.
- Online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with severe mental health issues or who require more intensive treatment.
Overall, while free online therapy can be a helpful resource for some people, it’s important to approach it with caution and carefully consider whether it’s the right choice for you.
Is free therapy as good as expensive therapy?
If you’re wondering whether free therapy is as good as expensive therapy, research suggests that both can be effective.
Here are some key points to consider:
- One study found that paying for therapy did not make a significant difference in outcomes2
- Other studies have shown that free online therapy can be just as effective, or even better, than traditional types of therapy
- While cost is a real concern for many people seeking therapy, it is often possible to access free or low-cost options, especially in larger cities
- Federally-funded healthcare programs and community mental health centers may offer free or low-cost services
- Online therapy can also be an affordable option, with some services offering sliding scale fees or discounts for those who qualify
Remember that the most important factor in the effectiveness of therapy is the quality of the therapist-client relationship.
Whether you choose free or paid therapy, finding a therapist who is a good fit for you and your needs is crucial.
Free Mental Health Resources
Some hotlines are often from more urgent situations in addition to free counseling, therapy, and chatroom services for mental health support:
These are additional free mental health hotlines and helplines:
- SAMHSA’s National Hotline (800-662-4357): A free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service in English and Spanish (https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline). This federal agency provides a 24/7 toll-free hotline that connects people to treatment resources and support groups in their area and gives general information about mental illness, substance misuse prevention, suicide prevention, and recovery support. To talk with a representative, dial 1-877-SAMHSA-7 (or 1-877-726-4727).
- NAMI HelpLine – The National Alliance on Mental Illness (https://nami.org/) connects people with mental illness to qualified and caring volunteers who give support and information. You can call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Monday–Friday from 10 am–6pm ET / 7am–3pm PT.
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 support for suicidal thoughts and distress. They offer phone (988) and web (https://988lifeline.org/) so depressed and suicidal people can receive treatment promptly. 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
- Girls & Boys Town National Hotline — This hotline offers free counseling and crisis intervention to problematic adolescents, teens, and their families in the United States (https://teenlineonline.org/yyp/girls-boys-town-national-hotline/). In English- and Spanish-speaking nations, you can dial 1-800-4480-3000 24/7.
- LGBT National Hotline – This hotline offers peer counseling, support groups, and referral services to LGBT kids under 25. 888-843-4564 is open Mon–Fri from 4–12 EST.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline — This hotline supports victims of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse in relationships. (800)-799-7233 or text START to 88788 to reach the Hotline at any time. Visit https://www.thehotline.org/.
Can therapy be free?
If you’re wondering whether therapy can be free, the answer is yes, it’s possible to find affordable or even free therapy options.
Here are some ways you can access therapy without breaking the bank:
- Look for community centers, hospitals, schools, and places of worship that offer free or low-cost counseling.
- Check out online services that offer free or reduced-cost therapy, such as peer support groups or state mental health department websites.
- Consider pastoral counseling from a trained minister, rabbi, priest, imam, etc., which is usually free.
- Look into nonprofit organizations and local support groups that offer free services for grief, trauma, and addiction recovery.
Remember that while these options may not always be completely free, they are often more affordable than traditional therapy.
Can I text a therapist for free?
If you are looking for a therapist to text for free, there are several options available to you.
- Crisis Text Line is a free service that provides 24/7 support via text message.
- You can also try BuddyHelp, which offers free online counseling from trained volunteer listeners and online therapy by licensed therapists.
- Additionally, NYC Well provides free and confidential mental health support via phone, text, or chat. However, it’s important to note that while some therapists may offer email or text communication as part of their services, most mental health professionals do not provide free counseling services or free therapy sessions.
Is there a free therapist app?
If you’re looking for a free therapist app, there are several options available that can provide support for your mental health.
Here are some of the best ones:
- Sanvello: This app provides on-demand help for stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and offers guided meditations, mood tracking, and more.
- 7 Cups: This app offers anonymous emotional support, therapy, and counseling from trained listeners and licensed therapists. You can connect with someone anytime, anywhere.
- MindShift: This app is designed to help you manage anxiety by providing tools such as breathing exercises, relaxation strategies, and cognitive restructuring.
It’s important to note that while these apps can help manage symptoms of mental illness, they should not be used as a substitute for professional treatment.
How do I get a free mental health consultation?
If you are looking for a free mental health consultation, there are several options available to you. Here are some ways to get started:
- Contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline for free help and support.
- Look for publicly-funded mental health providers in your area that offer low-cost or free counseling services.
- Check with your college or university health center to see if they offer free or low-cost counseling services to students.
- Consider online therapy options that offer free or affordable counseling sessions.
It’s important to prioritize your mental health and seek professional help when needed. Remember that there are resources available to you, even if you don’t have insurance or can’t afford traditional therapy sessions.
For more information and resources, check out the websites of organizations like NAMI and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
What is free therapy?
If you’re wondering what free therapy is, it refers to mental health services that are provided at no cost to you.
These services can be offered in-person or online and may include individual or group therapy sessions. Free therapy can be a great option for those who cannot afford traditional therapy or do not have insurance coverage.
However, it’s important to note that free therapy may not always be provided by licensed professionals and may not offer the same level of care as paid services. It’s crucial to research and finds reputable sources for free therapy options.
How can I get free therapy in Los Angeles?
If you’re looking for free therapy in Los Angeles, there are several options available to you. Here are some resources you can use:
- The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health offers free 24/7 online mental health resources to Los Angeles County residents.
- FURS is a free 24/7/365 hotline for current or former foster youth (up to age 21) and their caregivers to receive phone, text, chat, and/or in-person support.
- Call the L.A. County Department of Mental Health’s Helpline at (800) 854-7771. It’s open 24/7 and is the entry point for mental health services.
- Open Path Collective offers affordable therapy with a one-time, lifetime membership fee of just $65.
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and some people want to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support.
Is therapy free in New York?
If you are wondering whether therapy is free in New York, the answer is that it depends.
While there are some low-cost or free mental health services available in the city, most therapy sessions come with a fee. However, there are ways to make therapy more affordable for you. Here are some options:
- Check if your health insurance covers mental health services. Many insurance plans cover a certain number of therapy sessions per year.
- Look for therapists who offer sliding scale fees based on your income. Some therapists may also offer discounts for students or people experiencing financial hardship.
- Consider group therapy, which can be more cost-effective than individual therapy.
- Look into community mental health clinics or non-profit organizations that offer low-cost or free mental health services.
It’s important to prioritize your mental health and seek help when you need it, even if it comes with a cost. Remember that investing in your well-being can have long-term benefits for your overall quality of life.
Get A Therapist for Free Conclusion:
Finding a free therapist can be beneficial for many people seeking mental health assistance but unable or unwilling to pay traditional therapy prices.
It’s possible to find a qualified free therapist who can help anyone looking for quality mental health care without breaking the bank!
Before committing to any service, however, you must research the credentials of any potential therapist you might work with to ensure the best possible outcome from your treatments.
With this knowledge in mind, you’ll be ready to start taking steps towards bettering your mental health today!
Sources:
- https://www.apa.org/topics/telehealth/online-therapy. (n.d.). https://www.apa.org/topics/telehealth/online-therapy
- Pope, K. S., Geller, J. D., & Wilkinson, L. (1975). Fee assessment and outpatient psychotherapy. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 43(6), 835–841. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006x.43.6.835