One of the biggest reasons Nigerians avoid therapy is cost. The belief that mental health support is only for the wealthy keeps many people suffering in silence. The good news: quality therapy in Nigeria is more affordable and accessible than most people realise.
Here’s a practical guide to getting the support you need without breaking the bank.
How much does therapy actually cost in Nigeria?
Prices vary widely depending on the therapist’s experience and whether sessions are in person or online. In-person sessions at private clinics can run into tens of thousands of naira. Online therapy is typically far cheaper because there’s no overhead — on Mytherapist.ng, sessions start from ₦3,000, and you can see each therapist’s rate before you book.
1. Start with a free self-assessment
Before spending anything, you can take a free, confidential mental health check-in to understand what you’re dealing with. Our depression screening and anxiety screening take about two minutes each and point you toward the right kind of support.
2. Choose online therapy over in-person
Online therapy removes travel costs and clinic overheads, which is why it’s usually the most affordable route to a licensed professional. You can talk to a therapist by video, audio, or chat from home — and browse therapists by price to find one that fits your budget. For the lowest price, group therapy starts at ₦5,000 a month: up to twelve people share one licensed therapist.
3. Use your HMO or health insurance
Many Nigerians don’t realise their health plan may cover mental health. If you have an HMO through work or privately, it’s worth checking — you could access therapy at little or no extra cost. Learn more about using your HMO for therapy.
4. Ask about student discounts
If you’re a student, cost shouldn’t stand between you and support. Mytherapist.ng runs a student discount programme to make therapy affordable while you study.
5. Explore free and community resources
- Free helplines: Nigeria has mental health and suicide-prevention helplines you can call at no cost in a crisis.
- Community and faith groups: Many offer peer support that complements professional therapy.
- Free content: Reputable blogs (including this one) and self-help tools can help you build coping skills between sessions.
Is affordable therapy still good therapy?
Yes — affordability isn’t about lower quality. Every therapist on Mytherapist.ng is licensed and verified. A lower price often simply reflects the efficiency of online delivery, not the standard of care. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or anything else, you deserve real, professional support — and it’s within reach.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to see a licensed therapist in Nigeria?
Online therapy is usually the most affordable route to a licensed professional. On Mytherapist.ng, sessions start from ₦4,000, and the free check-in costs nothing to begin.
Does health insurance cover therapy in Nigeria?
Some HMO plans do include mental health support. Check your plan or ask your provider — you may be able to access therapy at little to no extra cost.
Suggested read: Problems of Guidance and Counselling in Nigeria: Solutions
Can students get discounted therapy?
Yes. Mytherapist.ng offers a student discount programme so students can access affordable, licensed therapy.
Talk to someone who gets it
You don’t have to work through this alone. Mytherapist.ng connects you with licensed Nigerian therapists over secure video, audio, or chat — from ₦4,000. Take the free 2-minute check-in, or browse therapists to get started today.
