“I Can’t Afford Therapy” or “I Don’t Have Time for Therapy”: Facing the Real-Life Barriers to Getting Grief Support

Grief doesn’t clock in on a schedule or wait until your finances line up. It crashes into your life, often when you’re already stretched thin. If you’ve found yourself saying, “I just don’t have time for therapy,” or “I can’t afford to get help,” you’re not alone. These are very real concerns—and they’re also very common barriers to getting grief support.

Where This Objection Comes From

When you’re grieving, even the smallest tasks can feel overwhelming. Carving out an hour for therapy might seem impossible. But many people find that even short-term or spaced-out sessions help them feel less alone and more grounded. Therapy doesn’t have to be weekly. It doesn’t even have to be forever. It can be one hour to not have to hold it all together.

What Therapy Could Look Like For You

Therapy is a real investment, and sometimes it’s just not possible. I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots because I believe support should be as accessible as possible. But I also know that therapy with me won’t be financially accessible for everyone—and that’s something I take seriously.

If You Can’t Work With Me, Here’s Where to Start

  • Nonprofit or community-based organizations that offer free or low-cost grief support
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) through your workplace
  • Online grief groups or mutual aid spaces
  • Apps like BetterHelp or MindBeacon (if appropriate for your needs)
  • Local hospice organizations, which often have grief services

Not Ready Yet? Here Are Other Ways to Get Support

If therapy still doesn’t feel right, try one of these:

Books like It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine

Podcasts like Griefcast  by The Dougy Centre or Grief is a Sneaky Bitch by Lisa Keefauver

Community spaces like cultural grief circles, support groups, or faith-based rituals

There’s No Shame in Needing Accessible Care

Grief takes up space. Your need for support is valid even if your schedule is packed or your finances are tight. You deserve care that fits your reality.

If you’re curious about whether I have a spot that works for your time or budget, let’s talk.

alybird

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