Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) costs $50 to $250 per session without insurance, depending on your location. Prices are on the high end of the range in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and New York.

The average cost of CBT with insurance is $20 to $50 per session for the copay. However, many health insurance plans do not cover therapy costs unless you have a billable diagnosis, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Virtual therapy appointments cost $50 to $200 per session on average. Online therapy membership plans cost $40 to $70 per week and typically include 24-hour support through texting or online chat.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a popular form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing thought patterns that have a negative influence on your behavior or emotions. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented treatment approach based on these core principles:

• Our thoughts impact our feelings and behaviors.
• Our deeply rooted core beliefs impact how we view ourselves, our environment, and our future.
• Unhelpful thought patterns can contribute to mental health problems and negative behaviors.
• Recognizing how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and changing how we think can improve our mental health and well-being.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help with a wide variety of concerns, including these and more:

• Depression and mood changes
• Eating disorders
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Chronic stress
• Phobias
• Addiction and substance use
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Marriage and relationship problems
• Grief and loss
• Personality disorders

Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most successful treatment methods available. Many research studies have demonstrated CBT to be as effective as or more effective than other therapy methods and medications.

However, CBT works best for individuals who take an active role in their treatment and apply the skills and techniques learned in their therapy sessions to challenges they face in everyday life. It's also important to remember results take time, and though CBT can significantly improve your mental health, some issues could persist after therapy ends.

When searching for a therapist for CBT, it's important to choose one who makes you feel comfortable, safe, and respected. Follow these tips in your search:

• If you have a specific concern—such as depression, stress, or addiction—look for therapists who specialize in that area.
• Ask your medical provider for recommendations.
• Read reviews from other clients on Thervo and Google.
• Confirm the therapist accepts your insurance or offers a sliding-scale rate.
• Ask about telemedicine and virtual visit options.
• Schedule an initial consultation to make sure you're happy with the therapist's communication style and empathy.

Ask these questions to help you find the best therapist for you:

• How long have you been practicing?
• What are your certifications?
• What is your philosophy as a therapist?
• Are you more directive or guiding in your sessions?
• What does a typical therapy session look like?
• How long will each session last?
• Do you give homework or reading assignments?
• How many sessions do you expect I'll need?
• How do you determine success in therapy?
• What is your success rate in treating past clients with this issue?