You’ve taken the courageous step to consider therapy. You’re ready to invest in yourself, your relationships, and your future. Now comes the practical question that’s on everyone’s mind: “How much is this going to cost?”
Let’s be honest—in a city like Denver, where rent, groceries, and even a night out can feel steep, it’s smart and necessary to understand the investment you’re making in your mental health. The last thing you need when you’re seeking support is more stress about the cost.
Our goal with this guide is to provide total transparency. No confusing jargon, no hidden fees. Just a clear, honest breakdown of what therapy costs in Denver and the options you have to pay for it.
The Average Cost of a Therapy Session in Denver
If you search online, you’ll see a pretty wide range. In Denver, a standard 50-minute therapy session typically costs between $120 and $250+.
Why the big difference? It’s not arbitrary. The rate often reflects a therapist’s:
- Experience and Credentials: A therapist with a PhD and 20 years of experience may have a higher rate than a newly licensed counselor.
- Specializations: Advanced training in specific areas like EMDR, trauma, or the Gottman Method for couples requires significant investment, which can influence session costs.
- Session Type: Couples or family therapy sessions are often priced differently than individual sessions.
The 4 Main Ways to Pay for Therapy: A Detailed Look
Here’s the good news: you have options. The listed price isn’t always what you end up paying out-of-pocket.
1. Using Your In-Network Insurance 📋
This is often the first place people look. If a therapist is “in-network,” it means they have a contract with your insurance company. You’ll typically only be responsible for your copay or coinsurance after you’ve met your deductible.
- Deductible: The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts contributing.
- Copay: A flat fee you pay for each session (e.g., $30).
- Coinsurance: A percentage of the cost you pay after your deductible is met (e.g., you pay 20%, they pay 80%).
Actionable Tip: Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card and ask these questions:
“Hi, I’d like to understand my outpatient mental health benefits. Can you tell me what my deductible is and how much of it I’ve met? What is my copay or coinsurance for a therapy session with an in-network provider?”
2. Using Your Out-of-Network (OON) Benefits ✨
This is a powerful but often misunderstood option. If a therapist is “out-of-network,” you pay the full session fee upfront, and then your insurance company reimburses you for a portion of it. This opens up your choices far beyond a limited insurance list, allowing you to find the perfect fit for you.
We provide you with a monthly document called a “superbill”—it’s just a detailed receipt with all the information your insurance company needs. You submit it to them, and they send you a check. Many clients find their insurance reimburses them for 50-80% of the session cost!
3. Private Pay (Paying Out-of-Pocket)
Many clients choose to pay directly for their therapy, also known as private pay. The primary benefits are maximum privacy (no diagnosis is shared with an insurance company) and total control over the length and style of your therapy. Many people use their Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards to pay for sessions this way.
4. Sliding Scale Fees & Community Resources
We believe therapy should be accessible. That’s why we, and many other practices in Denver, reserve a number of spots for clients who need a sliding scale rate (fees adjusted based on income).
Shifting Perspective: From “Cost” to “Investment”
We encourage you to think of therapy not as a weekly expense, but as a long-term investment.
What’s the return on that investment? It’s the ability to navigate challenges with resilience. It’s healthier, more connected relationships. It’s better performance at work and a greater sense of peace. When you compare the monthly cost to other wellness expenses—a high-end gym membership, a ski pass, or weekly brunches—the value becomes incredibly clear.
You Have Options
Figuring out the finances is part of the process, and you don’t have to do it alone. The most important thing is that you get the support you deserve.
Visit our therapy rates page to find specific pricing details about our practice. If you’re ready to talk, schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation with one of our therapists today. We can help you navigate your options.
