Looking for the right therapist is difficult and then approaching them can be even more difficult.
Discussing costs can be the most difficult part and there is a perception that they are expensive.
Most professionals who charge for their services are not actually paid at their hourly rate. This is their revenue and not their pay. Cost needs to be deducted and many of the hours actually worked are not ‘billed’.
It can seem that therapists charge a lot for their services and how can you evaluate if what they are charging is value for money?
Let’s look at what the costs are for a therapist.
As an example let’s take an hour of a therapist’s time.
Room Hire cost
Supervision Therapy Fee
Room Hire Cost
Professional Insurance
Time allocated for notes / write up
Training and Continual Professional Development
Marketing Cost
IT / Software
Frequently asked questions about therapist’s fees
Why are therapists’ fees so expensive per hour?
Therapists are skilled professionals that have undergone training and education.
Is private therapy worth it?
In a post covid world, private therapy has become more affordable – this is primarily because many therapists now over remote therapy online.
This has both allowed therapists to reduce costs and also given more access to a wider pool of therapists than those just available locally.
From a different perspective, NHS waiting lists are long and so private therapy may be a quicker solution.
Considerations
The above helps break down a therapist’s fees but it is important that you consider how much you can afford.
Many therapists offer discounts, for low-income, students and other situations.
It is worth contacting the therapist and asking about fees.
Many therapists on our website also list their fees to give you an indication.
By paying for a therapist you are more likely to be seen as a ‘client’ rather than a ‘patient’.
You will have more control over the number of sessions and have direct input on how the therapy is progressing.
It is difficult to put a price on good mental health but ultimately only you can decide if a therapist’s fee is both affordable and value for money.