Therapy in Mississippi: Costs, Licensing & How to Find Help
A guide to therapy in Mississippi — costs, licensing, telehealth rules, and how to find a therapist.
$120
Avg. session cost
#51
MH ranking (of 51)
130
Providers per 100K
13.7%
Uninsured rate
Therapist Licensing Requirements
Overseen by the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors.
| Credential | Title | Supervised Hours | Required Exams |
|---|---|---|---|
| LPC | Licensed Professional Counselor | 3,500 | NCE, NCMHCE |
| LCSW | Licensed Clinical Social Worker | 3,000 | ASWB Clinical |
| LMFT | Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist | 3,000 | MFT National Exam |
| Licensed Psychologist | Licensed Psychologist | 4,000 | EPPP |
Therapy Costs in Mississippi
The average therapy session in Mississippi costs $120 — $55 below the national average of $175. Online therapy is typically 15% less.
| Metro Area | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson | $125 | $90–$160 |
| Gulfport | $115 | $85–$150 |
Telehealth Rules in Mississippi
PSYPACT Member (since 2021)
PSYPACT member state. Out-of-state psychologists may use APIT. Other therapists must be licensed in Mississippi.
Audio-only therapy: Allowed
Medicaid telemental health: Covered
Consent: Informed consent required before telehealth services; documentation must be maintained in the patient record.
Insurance & Parity in Mississippi
Parity enforcement: weak
Medicaid expanded: No (20 session annual cap)
Typical in-network copay: $25–$50
Major insurers: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi, UnitedHealthcare, Ambetter, Molina
Crisis Resources in Mississippi
Mississippi Department of Mental Health
Crisis Lines
Notable Programs
- Mississippi's Community Mental Health Centers provide crisis, outpatient, and residential behavioral health services in all 82 counties.
- The Mississippi COMPLETE Act expands crisis stabilization and diversion services as alternatives to emergency rooms.
- Mississippi's Zero Suicide initiative trains health system providers in evidence-based suicide prevention practices.
Therapy Landscape in Mississippi
Mississippi ranks among the states with the greatest mental health challenges and the fewest resources to address them. The state has high rates of depression and suicide, yet a severe shortage of mental health providers — particularly in the Delta region and rural southern counties. Despite these challenges, Mississippi has community mental health centers operating across the state, and telehealth has substantially expanded access in recent years. Out-of-pocket therapy costs are among the lowest in the nation, typically ranging from $80 to $150 per session. Mississippi Medicaid covers mental health services, and the Mississippi Department of Mental Health coordinates public behavioral health programs statewide.
Finding a Therapist in Mississippi
Mississippi licenses professional counselors (LPCs), clinical social workers (LCSWs), psychologists, and marriage and family therapists (LMFTs). The Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors and the Board of Psychology oversee credentialing. Given provider shortages, telehealth is often the most practical path to care — especially for specialized treatments. Mississippi's community mental health centers serve as the primary safety net for residents who are uninsured or underinsured.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most accessible evidence-based therapy in Mississippi, effective for anxiety and depression. For trauma and PTSD, specialized providers offering EMDR are available primarily through telehealth or in Jackson-area practices.
Out-of-pocket sessions generally cost $80 to $150. Insurance copays range from $15 to $35. Community mental health centers offer reduced rates based on income.
Yes. Mississippi Medicaid covers outpatient mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and crisis intervention.
Telehealth is often the best option. You can also contact your regional community mental health center or call the Mississippi Department of Mental Health helpline for referrals.
Look for LPC, LCSW, licensed psychologist, or LMFT. Each requires graduate education, supervised clinical hours, and licensure through a Mississippi state board.
Yes, though options may be more limited in rural areas. Directories like Therapy for Black Girls, the Inclusive Therapists directory, and telehealth platforms can help you find a provider who understands your background and experience.
Mississippi's mental health landscape is improving, even as challenges remain. Community mental health centers, telehealth, and state-funded programs ensure that help is available regardless of where you live. Reaching out is the most important step you can take.