25 May Don’t Settle for a “Bargain”

Investing in an experienced, highly trained therapist saves you time and money in the long run 

Over decades as a psychotherapist, people have asked for a reduced rate, a less expensive therapist or for someone who takes insurance. 

Here’s what I tell them… 

If you can’t afford a therapist’s rate then it is a good idea to find one who charges what you can afford. Entering into a relationship that causes you financial stress will impede the therapeutic value of the relationship. 

If you can afford the rate but simply don’t want to pay that much to save money, consider these points:

-Many low-fee or insurance-based therapists are just starting out and don’t have a lot of experience, often learning as they go.  Other therapists with more experience who charge less or accept insurance do so because it’s easier.  Many feel they don’t deserve to charge more, or believe people will simply not choose to pay more. Therapists may think it’s better to charge less, keep clients longer and worry less about people expecting a lot from them. 

-The money you save doesn’t really matter if you pay for a service that doesn’t get results. You will spend more in the long run by realizing you have wasted money and time, and you’ll likely have to start over with a new therapist. 

-The saying “you get what you pay for” is very true even with therapy.  Highly trained, experienced therapists invest a lot of time and money to stay up to date in the art and science of psychotherapy.  They spend countless hours studying, paying for consultation, certifications, degrees, licenses and even more.  The best therapists also pay for their own therapy to be the best version of themselves for you. 

Here are a few actual client statements I’ve heard

“I wish I would have just come to you in the first place!” 

“I never knew what I was getting with you until I went to someone else”

“I know I’m in good hands with you because of your commitment to excellence and continued training”

“This was the best money I ever spent”

“You are not the cheap, but you are worth every penny”

Experienced excellent therapists are planning for your success and work with you to help you get the desired changes using the most efficient and effective modalities in the least amount of time.  This helps you make the sustainable changes you desire. They are generally the busiest and hardest to get into because they are sought-after and referred by past satisfied clients and other professionals. 

We charge a little more because we are worth it, and so are you.