Free or very cheap therapy: where to find it –

After two years of pandemic, who were also troubled economically and politically, therapy is no longer a luxury and has become a necessity – never has there been so much talk about taking care of mental health. However, for many people psychological help is still a luxury, after all, it requires a financial investment that often goes beyond any budget.

However, you can do therapy even without money. This is because, today, there are a number of services that offer psychological care free of charge or at affordable prices, democratizing access to specialized mental health care. Want to know more? So, just take a look at the points below:

1

CVV – Life Appreciation Center

O Life Appreciation Center (CVV) it is an emergency helpdesk, that is, a free emergency care space focused on suicide prevention and emotional support. Service is provided by trained volunteers via telephone (dial 188), email or chat, 24 hours a day – and it is not necessary to identify yourself to receive service.

two

Unified Health System (SUS)

Few people know, but SUS also offers free psychological care. It is enough to have a card from the health system, go to the nearest post and make the request for care. After screening, the patient is referred to a professional at the nearest Psychosocial Care Center (CAPS).

3

Public University Clinics

Many public universities, such as the University of São Paulo, have psychological care clinics that are part of their study centers. O Institute of Psychology at USP, for example, offers free online care for teenagers or people over 18 who are in emotional distress. The Institute also offers free and emergency care, without continuity. It is worth looking for more information on the websites of the public universities closest to you.

4

Health insurance

Ok, we know that those who have a health plan are not necessarily without money – after all, being able to pay a monthly plan is a privilege for many -, however, it is worth remembering that many plans today offer psychological support to their patients. It is worth finding out about the type of therapy offered (the most common is Cognitive behavioral therapy) and the number of sessions available per patient.

5

Apps

O Zenklub is a platform centered on psychological care at more affordable prices. Attendance is 100% online, can be done via mobile app or directly through the website on the computer, and it is possible to provide continuous assistance for up to BRL 60 per session.

6

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

In addition to SUS, it is also possible to find psychological care in NGOs such as Social Clinic House 1from São Paulo, which offers online, free or affordable care for vulnerable populations, with special emphasis on LGBTQIA+ and black people.

7

Private University Clinics

Aside from public institutions, many private universities have also opened outreach clinics attached to their psychology departments. In São Paulo this is the case for PUC (Pontifical Catholic University), with its Psychological Clinic “Ana Maria Poppovic”. There, you can find services for couples, families, children and adults. Consultations are online and free, but you need to go through a screening to make an appointment.

8

Unions and Specialized Associations

Some unions, such as the SINPESP (Union of Psychoanalysts of the State of São Paulo), and associations, such as ABPS (Brazilian Association of Psychodrama), provide free consultations or at very affordable prices for the general public.

BONUS: HABITS THAT COLLABORATE MENTAL HEALTH

Of course, no habit replaces professional psychological follow-up, however, it is always important to remember that there are day-to-day activities that are proven to contribute to mental and emotional balance.

A study developed by the CDC, the US Center for Disease Control, for example, proved that having a good night’s sleep, of more than 6 hours of rest, without interruptions, has a direct and positive impact on mental health.

Below are some habits you can nurture to improve your mental health and sense of well-being:

Sleep well and long enough to rest
Spend quality time with friends and family
Create and stick to an exercise routine that works for you
Opt for a nutritious and balanced diet
Rest when possible