Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Individual CBT Session (45 min) | $100 – $200 | $20 – $50 |
| Individual CBT Session (60 min) | $150 – $250 | $30 – $60 |
| Online CBT Session | $80 – $175 | $15 – $50 |
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: CBT is widely covered by health insurance as an evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
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
CBT is typically a short-term treatment lasting 12 to 20 sessions. Some people see improvement in as few as 6 sessions, while complex issues may require more.
Yes, most health insurance plans cover CBT as it is an evidence-based treatment. Under the Mental Health Parity Act, mental health coverage must be comparable to medical coverage.
CBT is one of the most researched and effective forms of therapy, with strong evidence for treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and insomnia.