How Much Does Therapy Cost in PA?
Takeaway: The cost of therapy in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the provider’s training and specialty. While therapy is an investment, committing to the process can help you get the most out of your care and experience lasting, life-changing results.
If you’re feeling curious (or even hesitant) about the price tag that comes with therapy, you’re not alone. It can feel daunting to start the process of looking for a therapist when there’s minimal accurate, reliable information about the cost of therapy.
That’s why I created this guide. As a therapist myself, I want to ease your mind by providing some insider knowledge about the financial side of therapy, options for paying for your care, and why therapy is ultimately a worthwhile investment.
Let’s dive in.
What’s the average cost of therapy in Pennsylvania?
Therapy in PA typically costs between $150–$400 per session for individual, couples, or family services. Group therapy often costs much less.
However, each therapist sets their own rates, so the exact cost per session varies. Where your therapist lands in that range depends on their credentials, level of experience, and areas of specialization.
For example, an intern or pre-licensed therapist early in their career may charge lower rates, but a clinician with more experience and training will likely carry a premium price tag.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how much different types of therapy cost, based on rates from fellow fully licensed, private pay therapists in Pennsylvania.
| Type of therapy | Average cost per session |
|---|---|
| Individual therapy | $150–$300 |
| Child therapy | $150–$350 |
| Couples therapy | $135–$375 |
| Family therapy | $140–$400 |
| Group therapy | $20–$70 |
Why does therapy cost what it does?
Let’s take a look at the “why” behind the cost so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Here are some of the factors that can impact a therapist’s fees.
Credentials: A therapist with advanced education may charge more, but keep in mind that you’re also paying for more targeted, effective care.
Specialization: Clinicians with extensive experience or training in a specific niche (like OCD) may command higher rates.
Session type: Couples, child, or family therapy, which involves balancing multiple dynamics, can require additional preparation and training, which may be reflected in the cost.
Location: Rates in larger cities (or other areas where demand is higher) are typically higher than in rural areas.
Session length and frequency: Standard sessions are often 45–60 minutes, but some therapists offer longer sessions or intensives, which come at a higher rate.
These are just a few of the elements that may influence your therapist’s rates.
How can I pay for therapy?
There are multiple ways to cover the cost of your mental health care. Here are some of the most common ways that people pay for therapy.
In-network insurance: Some therapists work directly with insurance companies, which can result in lower out-of-pocket costs. Just keep in mind that coverage can vary a lot between plans, so it’s always a good idea to call your provider and confirm what’s included under your mental health benefits.
Out-of-network reimbursement: If your therapist doesn’t take insurance, you may still be able to get reimbursed for part of the cost through your out-of-network benefits. This usually means paying the full fee upfront, then submitting a claim to your insurance provider to receive a partial refund.
Sliding scale fees: Many therapists offer a sliding scale based on income or financial need. These reduced-rate spots are often limited, but it never hurts to ask if it’s something your therapist offers.
Health savings or flexible spending accounts (HSA/FSA): If you have an HSA or FSA, you can often use those pre-tax funds to pay for therapy, which can make your sessions more affordable over time.
Private pay: Some clients prefer to pay out of pocket, especially when they’re looking for a therapist with a specific specialty or style that may not be widely available through insurance networks. This option also allows for more flexibility and privacy in your care.
Ultimately, the best payment option depends on your unique situation, including your budget and the type of care you want.
More on out-of-network therapy
If a therapist is “out-of-network,” it means they don’t bill insurance companies directly. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still use your insurance.
In fact, many clients are able to get reimbursed for a significant portion of their therapy costs—sometimes 50–80%—depending on their plan. You just pay the therapist directly and then submit a receipt (called a superbill) to your insurance provider.
Here’s why many therapists choose to stay out-of-network:
It allows more freedom and flexibility in how they work with clients (no insurance company dictating session limits or treatment timelines).
Therapists can dedicate more time to actual clinical work with their clients, not paperwork and phone calls with insurance companies.
You get a more personalized, focused experience, which can lead to more meaningful results.
For many people, paying for therapy upfront is well worth the flexibility and specialized care that comes with choosing an out-of-network provider.
How to use your out-of-network benefits
If you’re new to out-of-network therapy, here’s what the process looks like:
Call your insurance provider and ask:
Do I have out-of-network benefits for outpatient mental health?
What percentage of the session fee is reimbursed?
Is there a deductible I need to meet first?
Ask your therapist for a superbill (a detailed receipt).
Submit it to your insurance company. Many providers now offer online portals or use apps like Mentaya to simplify the process and help you get the most out of your out-of-network benefits.
Get reimbursed directly (the amount depends on your plan).
You can find more information about using out-of-network benefits on my FAQ page.
Is therapy worth the cost?
The short answer is yes—for many people, therapy is a worthwhile investment in their mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Whether you’re dealing with issues like anxiety or OCD, struggling with parenting challenges, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life, having the right support can make all the difference.
Working with a specialist who understands your needs deeply can lead to faster, more permanent progress. Plus, finding a clinician who’s trained in advanced therapy techniques and has extensive education and experience can help you make sure that you’re getting the most out of therapy.
Final thoughts
Therapy in Pennsylvania can vary in cost, but if you’re looking for high-quality, specialized care, working with an out-of-network therapist may be your best option. Many clients are surprised to learn that OON therapy is more accessible than they expected, especially once reimbursement kicks in. Plus, the flexibility that comes with choosing an out-of-network provider can ensure that your treatment is as tailored to your needs as possible.
If you’re looking for high-quality mental health care for yourself or your child or teen, I’d love to help. As a clinical psychologist with specialized training in techniques like SPACE and ERP, I’m passionate about helping parents and their children find relief from anxiety, OCD, and family challenges.
With both in-person sessions at my office on the Main Line and virtual appointments available in several states, I’m here to offer support in the way that works best for your family.
Contact me today to schedule your free consultation. I look forward to speaking with you!