Where to Find Low-Cost or Free Therapy in East Texas
In East Texas, mental health matters just as much as anywhere else—but access can be a little harder to come by. Whether you’re in Tyler, Longview, Nacogdoches, or one of the many smaller towns in the region, you might already know that finding a therapist you can afford (and trust) isn’t always easy.
Maybe you’re between jobs. Maybe you don’t have insurance. Maybe you’ve been calling around and hearing, “Sorry, we’re full.” You’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.
Let’s break down where you can actually find free, low-cost, or sliding-scale therapy in East Texas, and how to take the first step (even if you're not sure what to ask).
What Counts as “Low-Cost Therapy”?
When we say “low-cost” or “affordable” therapy, we’re talking about services that are either:
Free
Sliding scale (you pay based on your income)
Offered by graduate interns working under supervision
Provided by nonprofits or community health centers
Accessible through religious or university counseling programs
Many of these options don’t require insurance—and some are open to the public even if they’re offered through schools or faith-based groups.
Low-Cost & Free Therapy in Tyler, TX
Andrews Center Behavioral Healthcare System
Tyler’s primary public mental health provider. Offers therapy, case management, and crisis services on a sliding scale.
Website: Andrews Center
UT Tyler Psychology and Counseling Training Clinic
Graduate students provide low-cost therapy under supervision. Good option for individual, couples, or family counseling.
Location: UT Tyler campus
Samaritan Counseling Center of East Texas
Faith-integrated counseling, open to anyone. Offers a generous sliding scale and licensed providers.
Location: Tyler & surrounding areas
Website: Samaritan Counseling
Low-Cost Therapy in Longview, TX
Community Healthcore
Regional behavioral health services offering counseling, psychiatric care, and support services. Income-based payment options available.
Location: Longview (and across Gregg, Harrison, and other counties)
Website: Community Healthcore
East Texas Baptist University Counseling Center
Offers services to students and may occasionally refer community members to nearby low-cost options.
Location: Marshall (serves Longview area)
Therapy Resources in Nacogdoches & Lufkin
Burke Mental Health Services
Serving 12 counties across Deep East Texas, including Nacogdoches and Lufkin. Offers sliding scale therapy and case management.
Website: Burke
Stephen F. Austin State University Counseling Clinic
Low-cost therapy with graduate counseling interns. Available to community members, not just students.
Location: Nacogdoches
Website: SFA Clinic
Free or Affordable Therapy in Texarkana, TX
Community Healthcore – Texarkana Location
Offers adult, youth, and family therapy through public behavioral health programs. Sliding scale rates available.
Website: Community Healthcore
Christus St. Michael Behavioral Health
Hospital-based services; may offer financial assistance depending on your situation.
Location: Texarkana
Regional & Online Therapy Options
Open Path Collective
Nationwide network of therapists offering sessions between $40–$70 for individuals and $40–$80 for couples.
Website: openpathcollective.org
Sagebrush Counseling (Online for East Texas Residents)
I offer a limited number of sliding-scale therapy spots for Texas residents seeking affordable care. Sessions are online, private, and designed for those who don’t want to wait months to get started.
Learn more: Sagebrush Counseling – Affordable Therapy in East Texas
Tips for Finding Low-Cost Therapy in East Texas
Ask about sliding scale—even if it’s not advertised
Some therapists and clinics don’t list this on their website but may offer it if you ask.
Check with local churches and nonprofits
You don’t have to be a member to access help. Many faith-based centers or nonprofits offer community counseling at reduced rates.
Don’t wait for a crisis
It’s okay to reach out before things get urgent. These clinics often have long waitlists, so starting sooner can help you get in faster.
You Deserve Support—Without Going Broke
Getting mental health support in East Texas shouldn’t require driving to Dallas or paying out of pocket for months. Whether you go through a local clinic, a faith-based center, or online sliding-scale therapy, there are options.
If you’re looking for affordable therapy in Tyler, Longview, Nacogdoches, or anywhere nearby—I’d love to help you find the right fit.
