I didn't have to pay anything for the CBT I received a few years ago. My therapist was a psychology PhD student and giving therapy was part of his studies. My family doctor arranged it for me. There were other free options available to me at a local teaching hospital and a mental health clinic as well. When I was sick I didn't have an income, so I needed something free. I chose the PhD student and he turned out to be extremely competent and helpful.

I live in Canada, so doctor's appointments and psychiatrist's appointments are always free. I saw a psychiatrist in addition to the therapist. Private therapy with psychologists and other types of non-prescribing therapists can be expensive (unless you have insurance to cover it -- my current insurance at my job covers 80%), but there are other options here.

I'm just wondering if there are any programs in the U.S. similar to the therapy I received -- going to a mental health clinic or teaching hospital that offers therapy from a student for free or at a much lower price. It bothers me that therapy seems to be so cost-prohibitive for some people. IMO, it should be easily accessible to everyone who needs it -- regardless of their financial circumstances. People who are struggling with emotional and psychological problems don't need the added stress of extra financial worries. Everyone deserves to get help.