In recent years, the power of talk therapy to support mental health and well-being has become much more widely recognized, and thankfully, the stigma that once surrounded it is no longer what it was.
But while recognizing that therapy might help is an important first step, and one that’s often cited as being the hardest – knowing exactly how to get therapy, or where to start, can also feel overwhelming.
But it doesn’t need to be.
If you already have a sense of what kind of support you need – such as one-on-one therapy to help you through a mental health crisis, counselling during a difficult life transition, or couples therapy to help you work through relationship difficulties – it may seem easier to know where to begin.
But even if you’re still feeling lost, or if you’re completely unsure about the type of therapy, or therapist, that might be right for you, don’t worry – you’re not expected to have it all figured out.
Below, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to get therapy – and specifically, how to get therapy in Ohio. From understanding different types of talk therapy, to exploring insurance and payment options, to seeing how centers like REACH Behavioral Health can help make the process even easier, we’ll cover the answers you need.
How to get therapy: where do you start?
There are many different types of talk therapy, so the most important place to start is by identifying what you need.
That can be easier said than done – and you’re not expected to have all the answers. But having a general sense of what you’re hoping to work on can be helpful.
For example:
- If you’re looking for help with anxiety, depression, or grief, individual therapy is often the best option.
- If you’re experiencing parenting difficulties or relationship challenges, family or couples therapy may be most helpful.
- If you have a diagnosed mental health condition – or think you might – individual therapy is likely essential, potentially alongside psychiatric support, or group or family therapy.
Once you’ve identified what you’re looking for help with, it becomes easier to search for a therapist who’s a good match.It’s also worth noting that there are different types of therapy approaches – such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), interpersonal therapy, and more – each suited to different concerns. This is where it can start to feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what approach is right for you.
That’s where behavioral health centers like REACH can support you.
At REACH, we offer a wide range of therapy services – from individual and couples therapy to family therapy and psychiatry – and our team includes experts across many specialties. We’ll help you clarify your needs and match you with the therapist who’s right for you.
All you need to do is make that first phone call or send us a message. We’ll schedule a time for our intake specialist to talk with you, understand your needs, and recommend the best next steps.
What you’ll talk about in therapy
A common concern before starting therapy is: What will I talk about?
The answer is simple – whatever you need to. There’s no right or wrong topic to bring into the therapy room, and it’s completely okay if it takes time before you’re ready to share everything.
Therapy is a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. Whether you’re managing long-standing issues or the everyday stress of life, talk therapy can help you build insight, develop self-understanding, and make positive changes.
Therapy works because it:
- Helps you process emotions in a safe, structured setting.
- Supports self-reflection and personal growth.
- Equips you with tools and strategies to cope with challenges.
If you’re not sure how to begin, take a look at our guide on what to talk about in therapy for practical tips and reassurance.
How much does therapy cost in Ohio?
We understand that cost can be one of the biggest concerns when considering therapy. But it shouldn’t be a barrier to getting the help you need.
In Ohio, the cost of private therapy typically ranges from $80 to $200 per session, depending on factors like location, provider qualifications, and the type of service.
However, if the cost of therapy is a potential barrier, know that there are several ways to access affordable therapy, including:
- Medicaid insurance plans.
- Commercial insurance.
- Sliding-scale fees based on income.
At REACH, we’re committed to making therapy accessible. We offer all of the above options and provide personalized support to help you understand your benefits. If you’re unsure what your insurance covers – or what options are available to you – just give us a call. We’ll walk you through everything.
Is therapy covered in Ohio?
In most cases, yes – therapy is covered by insurance in Ohio when it relates to a specific, diagnosed mental health condition. These might include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, or addiction.
However, some everyday challenges – such as relationship problems, grief, or parenting issues – are not always covered, unless they are linked to a clinical diagnosis.
Most insurance plans include therapy under mental health or behavioral health benefits. You’ll need to review your individual plan to understand what’s covered, whether you need to meet a deductible, or if co-payments apply.
Medicaid plans in Ohio cover therapy with little or no out-of-pocket cost.
At Reach, we accept all Medicaid plans and most major private insurers – and we’re happy to help you understand what your plan includes. For more details, visit our FAQs or contact us directly – we’re here to help.
How to get therapy without insurance
If you don’t have insurance, or if your policy doesn’t cover the therapy you need, you still have options.
At REACH, we’re committed to making therapy affordable, so:
- We offer low-cost, self-pay options tailored to your income and situation.
- We’ll work with you to find the right services based on what you can afford.
- Our team can help you explore community resources or sliding-scale programs.
Much of what we’ve shared above – about costs, payment options, and support – applies here too. If you’re not sure where to begin, just reach out. We’ll help you figure out the best next step, no insurance required.
Does Ohio State offer free counseling?
Yes, Ohio has a state-funded public mental health system that includes free support services for those in crisis.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Ohio provides free, 24/7 support:
- Call or text 988
- Visit their website for more information and contact options
Additionally, Ohio Medicaid offers comprehensive mental health services – including individual and family therapy, crisis intervention, and psychiatric care – for little or no cost to those who are eligible.
How to find a therapist that’s right for you
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of your mental health journey. It’s about more than just credentials – it’s about connection, comfort, and feeling understood.
And it’s also completely okay if it takes a few tries before you find someone who feels like the right fit.
However, at REACH, we help take the guesswork out of the process:
- Our intake team works with you to identify your needs and goals.
- We carefully match you with a therapist who suits your needs and preferences.
- If something doesn’t feel quite right, we’ll happily rematch you with someone else.
If you’ve made the decision to start seeing a therapist but feel uncertain about how to get therapy or who to turn to, don’t let that hold you back – at REACH Ohio, we’re here to help you take that first step and find the support you need. Get in touch today, and let’s get you started on your journey to better mental health.