How Much Does Therapy Cost in Southern Maine? A Straight Answer
If you're looking for a therapist, one of the first questions you probably have is, "How much is this actually going to cost?"
The honest answer is: it depends.
Across Southern Maine, therapy fees can vary depending on several factors, including a therapist's experience, specialty, session length, and whether they accept insurance or operate as a private-pay practice. Selah Counseling and Trauma Therapy operates as a private pay practice and I take out-of-network benefits from your insurance. This means you can be reimbursed for a portion of the cost of your counseling session, even though I am not panneled with any insurance companies. My full session fee is fairly average for Maine, a regular 50-minute session is $120. I have seen a large range based on lots of factors (that we will get into below) from $25/session to over $200 a session! If you were wondering, usually those low-end session fees are from intern therapists…aka student therapists. This can be an amazing option for some! If your insurance covers a portion of your session fee, usually you must pay a co-pay fee out of pocket in the range of $30-$60 dollars a session depending on your insurance.
While exact fees vary from practice to practice, most therapists are transparent about their rates on their website or will happily discuss them during a free consultation.
If you're comparing options, here's what you should know.
What Affects the Cost of Therapy?
Not every therapy session looks the same, so it's understandable that pricing varies.
Some of the biggest factors include:
Experience and Specialized Training
Therapists who have invested in advanced training in areas like trauma, EMDR, attachment, or specialized work with teens and young adults may charge differently than someone offering more general counseling.
You're not simply paying for an hour of conversation. You're investing in years of education, clinical training, consultation, and experience that shape the care you receive.
Session Length
Most therapy appointments last around 50 to 60 minutes.
Some therapists also offer extended sessions for specialized approaches or more intensive work, which may have different fees.
Specialty
Finding a therapist who truly understands what you're experiencing can make a meaningful difference.
Whether you're looking for trauma therapy, support for anxiety, Christian counseling, or therapy for teens or young adults, specialized care often reflects additional training and expertise.
The goal isn't simply to find the lowest price. It's to find the right fit.
You Are Not Alone
Many people hesitate to reach out because they're worried therapy will be too expensive or that they won't know how to navigate payment options.
Those concerns are incredibly common.
It can feel overwhelming trying to compare websites, understand insurance benefits, and decide which therapist is the right fit before you've even had a conversation.
The good news is that many therapists are happy to answer those questions before your first appointment.
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Private Pay vs. Insurance: What's the Difference?
When looking for a therapist, you'll typically come across three common payment options.
Private Pay
With private-pay therapy, you pay your therapist directly for each session.
Many people choose this option because it often offers greater privacy, more flexibility in treatment, and the ability to work with a therapist who specializes in their specific needs rather than limiting the search to an insurance network.
Insurance
Some therapists are in-network with insurance companies, while others are considered out-of-network.
Using insurance may reduce your out-of-pocket cost, but it's worth understanding that insurance companies often have specific requirements for coverage, and benefits can vary depending on your plan.
If you're planning to use insurance, it's always helpful to contact your insurance provider ahead of time so you know what your benefits include.
Sliding Scale
Some therapists offer a limited number of reduced-fee appointments based on financial need.
Availability varies from practice to practice, so if cost is a concern, it's always okay to ask whether this option is available or if there are other community resources that may be a good fit.
Investing in Therapy Is Investing in Yourself
Starting therapy can feel like a big decision, especially when you're balancing school, work, family responsibilities, or other financial priorities.
It's okay to take time deciding what feels right for you.
The goal isn't simply finding the least expensive therapist. It's finding someone you feel safe with, understood by, and comfortable growing alongside.
When you find that fit, therapy becomes an investment not only in your mental health but also in your relationships, confidence, and future.
Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation | Contact Me
You May Have Some Concerns. That's Okay.
"What if I can't afford therapy?"
If cost is one of the biggest barriers, you're not alone. During a consultation, we can talk through current rates, payment options, and whether my practice is the right fit for your needs.
"Should I find a therapist that takes my insurance or pay privately?"
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options have benefits, and the right choice depends on your goals, your insurance coverage, your financial situation and the type of support you're looking for.
"What if I book a consultation and decide it's not the right fit?"
That's completely okay.
A consultation is simply a chance for us to meet, answer your questions, and see whether working together feels like a good fit. There's no pressure to schedule ongoing therapy.
"How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?"
The relationship between you and your therapist matters. During our consultation, you're welcome to ask questions about my approach, experience, and what therapy might look like for you.
How Do I Take the Next Step?
If you're exploring therapy, you don't have to figure everything out before reaching out.
A free 15-minute consultation gives us the opportunity to talk through your questions, discuss what you're looking for, review current fees, and decide whether we're a good fit to work together.
If you're ready to learn more, I'd love to connect with you.
Selah Counseling offers virtual trauma-informed therapy for teens and young adults across Southern Maine and throughout the state of Maine. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or Christian counseling, compassionate care is available wherever you are.
Begin Healing With Selah Counseling and Trauma Therapy
I specialize in trauma-informed, compassionate care for people ages 13-30.
I offer:
Online therapy across Maine
A gentle, attuned approach at your pace
Tools to build safety, connection, and self-trust
If you're ready to get started, visit our therapy for teens or therapy for young adults page to learn more about my approach, or contact me to set up an appointment.