10/21/2025
Why I Charge Less as a Mental Health Clinician
It’s not because I’m not worth it.
It’s because I know what it feels like when mental health care is out of reach and I never want anyone else to feel that helpless.
The Cost of Care I Couldn’t Afford
When I needed therapy the most, I simply couldn’t afford it.
The average session rate was $100–$200 per session, and I was barely holding things together. Around that time, I lost my job after a wave of community program closures across the state. My insurance vanished overnight, and COBRA cost more than a full week of unemployment pay.
I turned to community mental health centers, but the waitlists stretched for months. They are valuable, they are crucial to our communities! When I finally got insurance again, I ran into another barrier: either there were no available providers, they were not in my net-work or the co-pay was $75 a session, still far beyond my reach.
I struggled. I suffered. I sank deeper into self-doubt, sadness, and frustration.
Healing Over Coffee and Donuts
Then something shifted.
I met a few incredible people who truly listened. I found a small, informal group that met regularly, not therapy, but it felt like therapy. We talked, we shared, and we supported each other through some of life’s hardest moments.
And the cost? Just a cup of coffee and a donut.
That group changed my world. It reminded me how powerful connection, understanding, and kindness can be. And that’s when I knew: I wanted to give back.
Giving Back and Giving Access
Becoming a mental health clinician gave me the opportunity to help others find the same hope I found. This work isn’t just about supporting clients, it’s about continuing to grow as a person, too.
So when I set my rates, I made a conscious choice.
I charge less, not because I undervalue my skills or education, but because I value access more.
I’m building group environments where support is affordable, where people can heal and connect without breaking their budget.
And if the fee still feels out of reach? Let’s talk. We’ll figure something out together.
My “Why”
I stepped into it to make a difference.
I’m grateful that I can meet my own needs while helping others meet theirs, because healing should never be a luxury. It should be a lifeline.
