Getting Professional Help

The easiest and often free way to get help as a student:

• Visit your school's counseling center website or office
• Email or call to schedule an initial appointment
• Many schools offer same-day crisis appointments
• Services are usually free or low-cost for students
• Counselors understand academic stress and student life

If you have health insurance (including through parents):

• Call the number on your insurance card
• Ask for mental health or behavioral health services
• Request a list of in-network providers
• Ask about copay and coverage details
• Many insurance plans now offer telehealth options

Professional therapy from your phone or computer:

• BetterHelp - Online counseling and therapy
• Talkspace - Text, audio, and video therapy
• Many offer student discounts
• Some accept insurance
• Flexible scheduling and communication options

If cost is a concern:

• Community health centers often offer sliding scale fees
• Training clinics at universities have reduced rates
• Group therapy sessions are typically more affordable
• Many therapists offer sliding scale payment options
• Check Open Path Psychotherapy Collective for affordable options

Your first steps will typically include:

• An initial consultation or intake appointment
• Discussion of your concerns and goals
• Questions about your history and current situation
• Information about session frequency and duration
• Discussion of confidentiality and privacy policies