Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Art Therapy Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Art Therapy Session (50 min) | $75 – $200 | $20 – $60 |
| Group Art Therapy Session | $30 – $75 | $10 – $30 |
| Art Therapy for Children (45 min) | $75 – $175 | $20 – $60 |
CPT/ADA Code: 90834, 90837
What Affects the Cost
- Provider credentials and experience
- In-person vs. telehealth sessions
- Session length (30, 45, or 60 minutes)
- In-network vs. out-of-network
- Geographic location (major cities cost more)
- Type of therapy or treatment approach
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Art therapy may be covered by insurance when provided by a licensed therapist and billed as psychotherapy. Coverage depends on the therapist's credentials and diagnosis.
Under the ACA and Mental Health Parity Act, insurance must cover mental health treatment at the same level as physical health. In-network copays are $20-$75 per session. Out-of-network providers may be reimbursed at 50-70%. Many plans now cover telehealth therapy at $0 copay.
How to Save Money
- Online therapy platforms (BetterHelp, Talkspace) cost $60-$100/session
- Open Path Collective: $30-$80/session ($65 lifetime membership)
- Sliding-scale therapists adjust fees based on income
- University training clinics offer $10-$30/session
- Community mental health centers provide low-cost services
- Ask about out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
No artistic skill is needed. Art therapy uses the creative process as a therapeutic tool. The focus is on expression and exploration, not artistic quality.
Art therapy is used for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, developmental disabilities, and chronic illness. It is especially effective for children and trauma survivors.
Insurance may cover art therapy if the therapist is licensed and sessions are billed as psychotherapy under standard CPT codes. Check with your provider.