Cost of Addiction Therapy and Counseling in Tennessee

Volunteer State (TN) Addiction & Therapy Stats

Treatment programs emphasize the importance of developing a supportive community and focus on developing resources and increasing successful reintegration into the community. There is a growing need for programs as drug and alcohol abuse has reached epidemic proportions, including in Tennessee. In the 4th quarter of 2023, Nashville Metropolitan Public Health Department reported 165 suspected overdose deaths in Nashville and in 2019 there were over 2,000 drug overdose deaths in the state.

In 2024, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation recorded 80% of all crimes in Tennessee as having some drug-related connections. While the number of methamphetamine labs has grown to over 800, heroin is the increasing concern in Tennessee. Roughly 70,000 people in the state are addicted to opioids, which is a class of drug that includes heroin and synthetic substances like Fentanyl and carfentanyl. The drug overdose death rate rose in Tennessee from 17.2 per 100,000 in 2011 to 56.6 per 100,021. During that same period the rate in the US rose from 13.2 to 32.4 per 100,000.

What is the State of Tennessee Known For?

The state of Tennessee is known for many things, including being a center of country music and blues music. Nashville, Tennessee, boasts being the home of The Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and The Parthenon. Each of these landmarks has played a role in arts and music. The Grand Ole Opry is a historic country music venue that has showcased legendary performers.

Ryman Auditorium is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music” and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has preserved the history and legacy of country music through interactive displays and artifacts. Elvis Presley, known as the “King of Rock ‘n Roll,” made his home in Memphis, Tennessee. His estate is called Graceland and now stands as a pilgrimage for fans.

Sun Studio was the birthplace of rock and roll, where Johnny Cash, BB King, and Elvis Presley recorded some of their famous hits. Beale Street is located in Memphis and is a well-known and historic street lined with restaurants, clubs, and shops that revolve around blues music. Chattanooga, Tennessee, is another well-known spot in the state, and home to one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world. Tennessee Aquarium offers visitors the opportunity to see a diverse range of aquatic life. For those who are looking for outdoor activities, Lookout Mountain offers a stunning view of the surrounding area, including Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall.

How Much Does Addiction Therapy Cost Without Health Insurance in TN?

Addiction therapy cost without health insurance varies significantly. It can depend on whether treatment is residential or outpatient, the level of care required on an outpatient basis, whether the individual requires detoxification services, the length of the treatment, the services required, and the geographical location of the treatment center. For individuals who are in residential or inpatient care, they can expect to pay an average daily rate of approximately $500 to $700.

These programs offer 24-hour care and support, including lodging and meals. This is the most comprehensive, and typically the most expensive, option. IOP and PHP programs are less expensive alternatives because the programs have a lower level of intensity and typically duration of care. An IOP generally includes several hours of therapy for several days each week and can cost from $250 to $350 per day. A PHP provides a more intensive care option with daily sessions. Pricing options can range from $300 to $450 per day. These prices are estimates and vary based on the facility, the specific services included, and the level of treatment offered. We encourage you to contact Freeman Alcohol and Drug Addiction Center at (615) 645-3677 for more information about therapy options and treatment costs.

How Much Does Addiction Counseling Cost Without Health Insurance in TN?

The terms therapy and counseling are often used interchangeably but they have distinct differences in the focus and scope of services. Both are essential components of treatment, but they cater to different needs and objectives. Counseling is typically a process focused option that addresses specific issues, such as stress management or decision-making. It’s typically short-term, while therapy, also called psychotherapy or psychological therapy, is a more in depth and longer term option.

Therapy explores the experiences that have influenced the present and work to identify and understand the underlying patterns that affect current behavior. Addiction counseling cost without health insurance in Tennessee depends on some of the same factors as those that affect therapy cost. Because counseling is typically a shorter length, the overall cost may be lower. However, shorter and cheaper may not get the job done. Counseling and therapy work together to accomplish the goal of sobriety and sustainable recovery. Inpatient and residential care is typically higher in price than outpatient care. The average daily rate for residential care can range from $400 to $600, while IOP and PHP programs may range from $200 to $450 per day.

What Influences the Cost of Therapy for Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Tennessee (TN)?

The factors that influence the cost of therapy and counseling in Tennessee are varied. In addition to those that were mentioned earlier, others can also influence your out-of-pocket expenses. These include:

Type of therapy or counseling: The specific approach can affect costs. Some therapies require specialized training or materials, and this can lead to higher charges. For example, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are a specialized therapeutic approach that may cost more than group therapy.

Therapist qualifications and experience: Mental health professionals with advanced degrees, certifications, and experience in addiction treatment typically cost more because of their expertise and education.

Therapist reputation and demand: Therapists who are in high demand with a strong reputation for success in addiction treatment may charge more.

Location: Geographic location can influence the cost of therapy for addiction treatment within Tennessee. Urban areas typically have a higher cost of therapy compared to treatment facilities located in rural areas.

Length and frequency of sessions: As expected, therapy sessions that are longer or more frequent result in higher overall treatment costs. Intensive programs that require more hours per week can also cost more.

Insurance coverage: The extent that your insurance covers addiction treatment can greatly influence your out-of-pocket expenses. Some insurance plans cover a substantial portion of costs while others have high deductibles and limit the coverage for addiction treatment.

Out-of-pocket versus insurance coverage: People who are paying out-of-pocket without insurance coverage may have higher out-of-pocket expenses than those who have insurance coverage. However, without insurance coverage, you may be able to negotiate a lower rate directly with the provider and seek financial assistance from sources not available to those with insurance.

Sliding scale or financial assistance: Some alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers offer sliding scale fees that are based on income or have financial assistance programs. While these can significantly lower the cost, they are for eligible patients and typically require documentation of need.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in TN

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy that’s designed to help people manage and regulate intense emotions. It helps to reduce self-destructive behavior and improve relationships. DBT has been adapted for a variety of mental wellness issues, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders that can co-occur alongside substance use disorders.

The cost of individual DBT sessions can vary based on the therapist skill and geographic location. The average cost of psychotherapy may be covered in part by insurance, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Therapists can charge from $100 to $200 per hour.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in TN

Cognitive behavioral therapy is widely used as a psychological intervention to identify and challenge negative thoughts and behavior patterns. This helps an individual develop more constructive ways of thinking and coping with a variety of issues, including those that have led to addictive behavior.

CBT focuses on the interconnection between what a person thinks and feels and how they act. The cost of CBT sessions typically varies from $100 to $200 per hour. However, this is a range and can depend on the therapist qualifications, experience, and location. Many health insurance plans cover CBT treatment sessions which can help to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Family Counseling in TN

Addressing family interactions is a foundational requirement for addiction treatment. It’s a therapeutic approach that addresses the issues affecting the health and function of a family unit. Family therapy and counseling allows members to improve their communication skills, resolve conflicts, and understand and manage situations in a more constructive manner.

Families work together with a therapist to strengthen their bonds and work through challenges, including parental issues, marital problems, and major life transitions. The cost of family counseling can vary but typically ranges from $75 to $200 per hour. The range depends on the counselor’s experience, location, additional certifications, and the length and complexity of the sessions.

Group Therapy in TN

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy or talk therapy where one or more therapists work together to treat a small group of individuals. The treatment sessions occur as a group, which is an approach that provides a supportive environment for individuals where they can share experiences, learn from each other, and develop interpersonal skills. Group therapy has proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.

It offers a unique benefit of helping to facilitate understanding through shared experiences. The cost of group therapy is typically lower than individual therapy. It can average from $50 to $75 per session. This offers a unique experience for individuals struggling with substance use disorders as it is cost-effective and highly therapeutic, which makes it a popular treatment option.

Holistic Therapy in TN

There are a variety of holistic healing approaches to treatment, but the foundational aspect is that it addresses the individual as a whole and not a set of symptoms. Holistic therapy considers the mind, body, spirit, and emotions in pursuit of overall health and wellness. Holistic therapies integrate approaches such as meditation, yoga, and nutritional counseling to promote healing processes and balance.

The cost of holistic therapy varies widely and depends on the type of treatment used and the practitioner’s expertise. Sessions can range from $50 to $200 or more per hour. Not all insurance plans offer coverage for holistic therapies, but many people find it is a wise and valuable investment in their sobriety.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy in TN

Mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) focuses on helping the individual to cultivate mindfulness. This is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment without judging thought. MBT helps people become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This helps them to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues more effectively.

MBT can incorporate meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga to promote the practice of being fully engaged in the moment. The cost of MBT sessions varies from $100 to $150 per hour. The cost depends on the therapist’s qualifications, certifications, and location. Some insurance plans cover part of the cost, which can make it more financially accessible.

Music Therapy in TN

Music therapy uses music to address specific needs in the individual. By listening, singing, playing instruments, or composing music, people are able to explore their feelings and develop coping skills. Music therapy addresses physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs in a person. It also helps to enhance an individual’s memory and improve their communication.

The cost of music therapy sessions typically ranges from $60 to $120 per hour, depending on the therapist’s experience and the length of the session. It has proven to be effective for those who have mental health issues, developmental disorders, and chronic illnesses. Some insurance plans cover music therapy, which helps to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Adventure Therapy in TN

Adventure therapy is an experiential therapeutic approach that uses outdoor activities to help promote personal growth, self-discovery, and emotional healing. These outdoor activities can include hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and rope courses. When an individual faces physical challenges, they engage with participants to develop teamwork, improve communication skills, and build resilience.

Each of these strategies helps to address mental health issues that affect substance use disorders. Adventure therapy programs vary in length and scope, which means the costs range widely. A short-term program might cost $200 to $400 while a longer more intensive retreat can exceed $2,000. Insurance plans do not typically cover adventure therapy, but many have found the unique combination of physical activity and psychological support beneficial to their healing process.

Alcohol Use Disorder Therapy Cost in TN

Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition that’s characterized by an inability to control or stop using alcohol despite experiencing poor health, social, and occupational consequences. There is a spectrum from mild to severe alcohol use disorder that encompasses a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. Therapy options include cognitive therapy, motivational interviewing, and medication-assisted treatment that aims to reduce alcohol intake, manage withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery.

The cost of AUD treatment varies on the intensity of care required and whether a medical detoxification program is necessary. Outpatient counseling can range from $100 to $200 while an inpatient rehab program can cost from $2,000 to $25,000 for a 30-day stay. Many insurance programs offer coverage that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Opioid (Heroin, Fentanyl, Prescription Painkillers) Use Disorder Therapy Cost in TN

Opioid use disorder is a chronic medical condition that’s characterized by the compulsive use of opioids despite experiencing harmful consequences. Opioids include heroin and prescription painkillers, as well as synthetic products like Fentanyl and carfentanyl. Substance use disorder affects an individual’s physical and psychological health and leads to a high risk of overdose.

Therapy options typically include medication assisted treatment with methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. These help to manage withdrawal symptoms and combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, will support recovery. The cost of opioid use disorder treatment varies and depends on whether you are an inpatient or outpatient. An outpatient medication assisted treatment program can average $5,000 to $10,000 per year while an inpatient rehab program can range from $6,000 to $20,000 for a 30-day program.

Cocaine (Coke and Crack) Use Disorder Therapy Cost in TN

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that produces an intense euphoric effect and is derived from the coca plant. It’s highly addictive and can lead to serious health issues, including heart attack and stroke. Therapeutic approach to cocaine addiction often includes behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and contingency management.

These therapies focus on changing the pattern of thinking and behavior that led to drug use. There are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine addiction treatment. The cost of treatment depends on the length of treatment, intensity of the program, and location of the facility. An outpatient therapy program can range from $100 to $200 per session while an inpatient rehab program can cost $5,000 to $20,000 for a 30-day stay. Many insurance plans cover some of these costs, which can reduce the financial burden on people who are seeking help.

Benzodiazepines (Benzos) Use Disorder Therapy Cost in TN

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms, and anxiety. However, they have sedative, hypnotic, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxant properties that increase their potential for dependence, making them a substance of misuse. Therapy for benzodiazepine dependence includes gradually reducing the medication under medical supervision.

Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging and produce some potentially life-threatening complications, so withdrawal should always be medically managed. Therapy typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy to help address the underlying conditions that led to dependence. The cost of treatment is lower in an outpatient program that can range from $100 to $200, while an inpatient detox and rehab program can cost from $6,000 to $20,000 for a 30-day program.

Methamphetamine (Meth, Crystal Meth) Use Disorder Therapy Cost in TN

Methamphetamine drugs are also called math or crystal meth. They are highly addictive stimulants that affect the central nervous system. Methamphetamine produces an intense euphoria, increases energy and alertness, but leads to severe physical and psychological consequences.

Physical consequences include dental problems, skin sores, and an increased risk of infectious diseases. Therapy typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies with motivational incentives that are aimed at changing drug use behavior and improving the individual’s coping mechanisms. The cost of treatment ranges from $200 per session for an outpatient therapy to $5,000 to $20,000 for a 30-day detox and inpatient program.

Dual Diagnosis Therapy Cost in TN

Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of a substance use disorder and a mental health condition simultaneously. This is a complex disorder that requires an integrated treatment approach to address both issues concurrently. Therapy typically involves a combination of medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and support groups.

These are tailored to treat substance abuse and the underlying mental health condition. Outpatient programs, including cognitive behavioral therapy cost, typically average from $2,500 to $10,000 and inpatient programs range from $8,000 to $30,000 for a 30-day stay.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Use Statistics in Tennessee

• According to the Substance Abuse and Mental health Services Administration (SAMHSA), illicit drug use in the Nashville area reached 18.1% of the metropolitan statistical area in 2010, which represented a higher rate than for the remainder of Tennessee.
• In Quarter 4 of 2023, the Nashville Metropolitan Public Health Department reported 165 suspected overdose deaths in the Nashville area. In 2019, the TN Department of Health recorded over 2,000 drug overdose deaths across the state.
• In 2024, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation recorded 80% of crimes in Tennessee having some drug-related connection. There were an estimated 800 methamphetamines Labs operating within the state, but the increasing concern was heroin.
• Heroin belongs to a class of drugs called opioids. Roughly 70,000 people in Tennessee are addicted to opioids which is an epidemic level. Other opioids include synthetic substances like Fentanyl and carfentanil, which are extremely powerful and between 100 and 10,000 times more potent than morphine.
• The drug overdose death rate has risen in TN from 17.2 per 100,000 in 2011 to 56.6 per 100,000 in 2021. During the same time period the overdose death rate in the U.S. rose from 13.2 to 32.4 per 100,000.
• In 2021, a study showed that hospital costs were $13.2 billion for the treatment of substance use disorders.
• In 2011, 59.6% of substance abuse treatment admissions in the U.S. reported having no health insurance. In the same group 21.3% reported having Medicaid, and 10.5% reported having private insurance. In 2020, 58% of adults with substance use disorders were covered by private insurance.