Finding out how much a therapist session cost in Morocco shouldn’t be a guessing game. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just need someone to talk to, understanding therapy pricing helps you make an informed decision about your mental health.
Here’s the reality: therapy costs in Morocco vary widely depending on where you go and who you see. From free public services to premium private sessions, knowing your options saves you money and stress.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: How Much Does Therapy Cost in Morocco?
The short version:
- Public sector therapy: 100-200 MAD ($10-20) per session
- Private psychologist: 200-500 MAD ($20-50) per session
- Private psychiatrist: 300-600 MAD ($30-60) per session
- Online therapy: 100-1,000 MAD ($10-100) per session
Your actual cost depends on your insurance coverage, location, and which professional you choose. Let’s break down everything you need to know.
Understanding Therapy Costs: Public vs Private vs Online
Public Sector Therapy Costs
Morocco’s public mental health system offers the most affordable option, but with significant trade-offs.
What You’ll Pay:
- Initial psychiatric consultation: 100-200 MAD
- Follow-up sessions: 100-150 MAD
- Medication consultations: 100-200 MAD
- Hospital admission (locked ward): Free
- Hospital admission (open ward): 300 MAD per day
Where to Find Public Mental Health Services:
Morocco has 27 public psychiatric facilities across the country:
- Casablanca: Psychiatric wards in general hospitals
- Rabat: University psychiatric hospitals
- Marrakech: Specialized psychiatric facilities
- Agadir: Regional psychiatric hospital (proposed)
- Kenitra: Regional psychiatric hospital (proposed)
- Fes: Child psychiatry facility
The Reality of Public Mental Health Care:
Mental health professionals estimate that around 300-350 psychiatrists serve Morocco’s entire population of over 30 million people. That’s roughly one psychiatrist per 100,000 people, with most concentrated in the Rabat-Casablanca corridor.
Important to know: Mental healthcare is included neither in the AMO nor in the RAMED insurance coverage, meaning even with public insurance, you may face out-of-pocket costs for psychiatric care.
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Some AMO/RAMED coverage may apply for hospitalization
- Available in major cities
Cons:
- Long wait times (sometimes months)
- Quality varies significantly
- Limited privacy
- Concentrated in urban areas only
- Language barriers (mostly Arabic/French)
Private Therapist Costs in Morocco
Private therapy offers better quality and shorter wait times, but at higher prices. Costs vary significantly by city and therapist qualifications.
Psychiatrist Fees (طبيب نفسي)
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. Specialist doctor consultations in Morocco typically range from 120 to 200 dirhams (€10-15), though psychiatrists often charge more due to their specialization.
City-by-City Breakdown:
| City | Psychiatrist Session Cost |
|---|---|
| Casablanca | 300-600 MAD ($30-60) |
| Rabat | 300-500 MAD ($30-50) |
| Marrakech | 250-500 MAD ($25-50) |
| Tangier | 200-400 MAD ($20-40) |
| Agadir | 200-400 MAD ($20-40) |
| Smaller cities | 150-300 MAD ($15-30) |
Psychologist Fees (عالم نفساني)
Psychologists provide talk therapy and cannot prescribe medication. Their fees are generally lower than psychiatrists.
Typical Costs:
- First session: 250-400 MAD
- Regular sessions: 200-350 MAD
- Sessions typically last 45-60 minutes
What Affects Private Therapy Costs:
- Experience level: Newly trained therapists charge less than those with 10+ years experience
- Location: Upscale neighborhoods in Casablanca cost more than smaller cities
- Language spoken: English-speaking therapists charge a premium
- Specialization: Couples therapy, trauma specialists, or child psychologists may cost more
- Credentials: Therapists with international certifications charge higher rates
Online Therapy Costs
Online therapy has become increasingly popular in Morocco, offering convenience and sometimes lower costs.
International Platforms:
Online therapy in Morocco costs about $50-$100 per session on average, though budget options exist. Platforms like MantraCare and TherapyMantra offer:
- Budget sessions: $10-20 per session
- Standard sessions: $50-70 per session
- Premium sessions: $80-100 per session
Morocco-Based Online Services:
Some Moroccan therapists now offer video sessions at rates similar to in-person visits (200-500 MAD).
Pros of Online Therapy:
- No travel costs
- More flexible scheduling
- Access to English-speaking therapists
- Greater privacy and anonymity
- Often cheaper than in-person
Cons:
- Requires stable internet connection
- May not be covered by insurance
- Less personal connection
- Not suitable for severe psychiatric conditions
Insurance Coverage: Will AMO or RAMED Pay for Therapy?
Understanding insurance coverage is crucial for managing therapy costs in Morocco. Here’s what you need to know about each option.
AMO (Assurance Maladie Obligatoire) Coverage
AMO is Morocco’s mandatory health insurance for formal sector employees. While it covers many medical expenses, mental health coverage is limited.
What’s Covered:
AMO typically covers 70-90% of costs in the public healthcare sector, but this has important limitations for mental health:
- Psychiatric hospitalization in public facilities may be partially covered
- Medication prescribed by psychiatrists may receive some coverage
- Outpatient therapy sessions have limited or no coverage
What’s NOT Covered:
- Most private practice therapy sessions
- Online therapy platforms
- Counseling or talk therapy in many cases
- Mental healthcare specifically, as it is included neither in the AMO nor in the RAMED
How to Use AMO for Mental Health:
- Get a referral from your general practitioner
- Visit public psychiatric facilities (covered facilities only)
- Pay upfront for services
- Submit reimbursement claim with receipts
- Wait 3-6 months for reimbursement (if approved)
Reality check: Most people pay out-of-pocket for therapy even with AMO coverage.
RAMED (Régime d’Assistance Médicale) Coverage
RAMED is Morocco’s free public health insurance for low-income individuals and families.
Who Qualifies:
- Moroccan citizens or legal residents
- Income below specified thresholds
- Not covered by other insurance schemes
What You Get:
- Free admission to locked psychiatric wards
- Subsidized care in public facilities
- Limited outpatient mental health services
The Challenge:
Like AMO, RAMED has minimal mental health coverage beyond basic hospitalization in public facilities. Private therapy is almost always out-of-pocket.
Private Insurance (Mutuelle) Coverage
Some private insurance policies in Morocco include mental health benefits, but coverage varies dramatically.
What to Check in Your Policy:
- Annual limit for mental health services (often 2,000-5,000 MAD)
- Number of sessions covered per year (typically 5-10)
- Whether therapy is covered or only psychiatrist visits
- Pre-authorization requirements
- Network restrictions
Out-of-Pocket Reality:
Most Moroccans pay directly for therapy sessions and seek reimbursement later, if at all. The reimbursement process can take months and isn’t guaranteed.
Psychiatrist vs Psychologist: Which Do You Need?
Choosing between a psychiatrist and psychologist affects both your treatment and costs. Here’s how to decide.
Psychiatrist (طبيب نفسي) – The Medical Doctor
What They Do:
- Diagnose mental health conditions
- Prescribe medications (antidepressants, anxiety medication, etc.)
- Provide medical management of psychiatric disorders
- Often combine medication with brief therapy
Best For:
- Severe depression or anxiety requiring medication
- Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other serious conditions
- When you’ve tried therapy alone without success
- Conditions requiring medical monitoring
Typical Treatment Costs:
- Initial evaluation: 400-600 MAD (longer session for diagnosis)
- Medication follow-ups: 300-400 MAD (15-30 minute check-ins)
- Therapy sessions: 400-600 MAD (if they offer talk therapy)
- Plus medication costs: 200-800 MAD per month depending on prescriptions
Psychologist (عالم نفساني) – The Talk Therapy Specialist
What They Do:
- Provide psychotherapy (talk therapy)
- Use evidence-based techniques (CBT, psychodynamic therapy, etc.)
- Help with behavioral and emotional issues
- Cannot prescribe medication
Best For:
- Relationship problems
- Stress management
- Grief and loss
- Life transitions
- Mild to moderate depression or anxiety
- Personal growth and self-understanding
Typical Treatment Costs:
- First session: 250-400 MAD
- Regular weekly sessions: 200-350 MAD
- No medication costs
Cost Comparison: Which Saves Money Long-Term?
Psychologist approach:
- Lower per-session cost (200-350 MAD)
- Requires 10-20+ sessions typically
- Total 6-month cost: 5,000-14,000 MAD
- No medication costs
Psychiatrist approach:
- Higher per-session cost (300-600 MAD)
- Fewer sessions needed (medication management)
- Monthly costs: 500-1,200 MAD (visits + medication)
- Total 6-month cost: 3,000-7,200 MAD
Combined approach (often most effective):
- Psychiatrist for diagnosis and medication: 1,200-2,400 MAD initially
- Psychologist for ongoing therapy: 800-1,400 MAD monthly
- Most comprehensive but most expensive
Hidden Costs You Need to Budget For
The session fee is just the starting point. Here are additional expenses many people forget.
Beyond the Basic Session Fee
Initial Evaluation Costs:
First sessions often cost 50-100 MAD more than regular sessions because they’re longer and involve detailed assessment. Some therapists charge 400-600 MAD for comprehensive psychological evaluations.
Psychological Testing:
If needed for diagnosis:
- IQ tests: 500-1,000 MAD
- Personality assessments: 400-800 MAD
- Neuropsychological testing: 1,000-2,000 MAD
Medication Expenses:
If your psychiatrist prescribes medication, budget for:
- Generic antidepressants: 100-300 MAD per month
- Brand-name medications: 400-800 MAD per month
- Multiple medications: 600-1,200 MAD per month
These costs are separate from your therapy sessions and may or may not be covered by insurance.
Transportation Costs:
Getting to therapy adds up:
- Taxi rides in cities: 30-60 MAD round trip
- Public transport: 10-20 MAD round trip
- Parking fees: 10-20 MAD per session
- Monthly transportation (weekly therapy): 120-240 MAD
Session Frequency Impact on Your Budget
Therapists typically recommend different frequencies based on your needs:
Weekly Sessions (Most Common):
- 4 sessions per month
- Monthly cost with psychologist: 800-1,400 MAD
- Monthly cost with psychiatrist: 1,200-2,400 MAD
Bi-Weekly Sessions:
- 2 sessions per month
- Monthly cost with psychologist: 400-700 MAD
- Monthly cost with psychiatrist: 600-1,200 MAD
Monthly Sessions (Maintenance):
- 1 session per month
- Monthly cost with psychologist: 200-350 MAD
- Monthly cost with psychiatrist: 300-600 MAD
Most people start with weekly sessions for 2-3 months, then reduce frequency as they improve.
How to Find Affordable Therapy in Morocco
Good mental health care doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are proven strategies to reduce costs.
Free and Low-Cost Options
University Psychology Clinics:
Some universities with psychology programs offer supervised therapy at reduced rates:
- Sessions with advanced students: 50-150 MAD
- Supervised by licensed professionals
- Available in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Marrakech
- Quality varies, but can be excellent
NGO and Community Mental Health Services:
Several organizations provide free or sliding-scale mental health support:
- Community mental health centers in major cities
- Support groups for specific issues (grief, addiction, etc.)
- Crisis intervention services
- Youth mental health programs
Support Groups:
Peer support groups are completely free:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings in major cities
- Depression and anxiety support groups
- Bereavement groups
- Online support communities
Sliding Scale Pricing
What Is It:
Some private therapists offer reduced fees based on your income. You might pay 100-200 MAD instead of their standard 400 MAD rate.
How to Ask:
When contacting a therapist:
- Be honest about your financial situation
- Ask directly: “Do you offer sliding scale fees?”
- Explain what you can afford
- Many therapists reserve a few slots for reduced-rate clients
Where to Find Sliding Scale Therapists:
- Ask when calling for appointments
- Check online therapist directories
- Contact university-affiliated practitioners
- NGO-connected therapists often offer this
Payment Plans and Package Deals
Session Packages:
Some therapists offer discounts when you commit to multiple sessions:
- 5-session package: 10% discount (save 100-200 MAD)
- 10-session package: 15% discount (save 300-500 MAD)
- 20-session package: 20% discount (save 800-1,400 MAD)
What Payment Methods Work:
Understanding payment options helps you plan:
- Cash: Accepted by all therapists (most common)
- Bank transfer: Many private practitioners accept this
- Credit/debit card: Rare in private practice, more common in clinics
- Mobile payment: Increasingly accepted in urban areas
- Insurance direct billing: Very rare; usually you pay and seek reimbursement
Pro tip: Always get a receipt (facture) for insurance reimbursement claims.
Is Therapy Worth the Cost? Budget Reality Check
Let’s talk numbers based on real Moroccan salaries and living costs.
What 6 Months of Therapy Actually Costs
Budget Option (Public Sector):
- Weekly sessions at public facility: 150 MAD × 24 sessions = 3,600 MAD
- Transportation: 120 MAD × 6 months = 720 MAD
- Medication (if needed): 200 MAD × 6 months = 1,200 MAD
- Total: 5,520 MAD (about $550)
Mid-Range Option (Private Psychologist):
- Weekly sessions for 3 months: 300 MAD × 12 = 3,600 MAD
- Bi-weekly for 3 months: 300 MAD × 6 = 1,800 MAD
- Transportation: 150 MAD × 6 months = 900 MAD
- Total: 6,300 MAD (about $630)
Premium Option (Private Psychiatrist + Therapy):
- Initial evaluation: 600 MAD
- Weekly psychiatrist visits (2 months): 400 MAD × 8 = 3,200 MAD
- Monthly medication checks (4 months): 400 MAD × 4 = 1,600 MAD
- Medication: 400 MAD × 6 months = 2,400 MAD
- Total: 7,800 MAD (about $780)
Comparing to Average Moroccan Salary
According to cost of living data, understanding therapy costs in context helps:
- Minimum wage in Morocco: ~2,800 MAD per month
- Average private sector salary: 4,000-7,000 MAD per month
- Professional/skilled worker salary: 8,000-15,000 MAD per month
Budget Impact:
- Weekly therapy costs 7-20% of minimum wage monthly
- Weekly therapy costs 4-13% of average salary monthly
- Weekly therapy costs 2-5% of professional salary monthly
This explains why many Moroccans struggle to afford therapy and why alternative options matter.
When Medication Might Reduce Overall Costs
Sometimes medication is more cost-effective than long-term therapy alone:
Depression Example:
- Therapy-only approach: 300 MAD × 30 sessions = 9,000 MAD over 8 months
- Medication approach: 500 MAD psychiatrist visit + 300 MAD/month medication × 6 months = 2,300 MAD
- Combined approach: Often most effective for moderate-severe depression
Important: Medication isn’t “better” or “worse” than therapy—it’s about finding what works for your specific situation. Many people benefit from both.
Privacy and Stigma: Why Cost Matters for Discretion
In Morocco, mental health stigma significantly impacts treatment decisions and costs.
Why Some Moroccans Avoid Cheaper Public Options
Beyond quality concerns, privacy is a major issue:
Visibility Concerns:
- Public psychiatric facilities are well-known in communities
- Fear of being seen entering a psychiatric hospital
- Worry about running into neighbors or acquaintances
- Social stigma of being labeled “hmeq” (crazy)
Confidentiality Fears:
- Consultations sometimes happen in semi-public ward areas
- Medical records in public system may be less secure
- Staff members might be from the same community
Family and Social Pressure:
- Some families hide mental health treatment from extended family
- Marriage prospects can be affected by known mental health history
- Professional reputation concerns
Paying for Privacy
Private therapy offers better confidentiality:
- Discrete office locations in professional buildings
- Private consultation rooms
- Better record security
- No need to go to psychiatric facilities
- Online therapy from home (maximum privacy)
Is the premium worth it?
For many Moroccans, paying 200-300 MAD extra per session for privacy is worth the peace of mind and avoiding family/social complications.
Cultural Context: Therapy vs Traditional Healers (Fqih)
Many Moroccans consider traditional healers as an alternative or complement to therapy.
Traditional Healer Costs:
- Single visit: 50-200 MAD
- Multiple sessions: 200-500 MAD total
- Ruqyah (spiritual healing): 100-300 MAD
What You’re Paying For:
| Aspect | Traditional Healer | Licensed Therapist |
|---|---|---|
| Training | Traditional apprenticeship | University degree + licensing |
| Approach | Spiritual/cultural | Evidence-based psychology |
| Cost | Generally lower | Higher but more structured |
| Privacy | Varies widely | Professional confidentiality |
| Effectiveness | Depends on belief/issue | Research-supported methods |
Can They Work Together?
Some Moroccans see both a therapist and a fqih. This is a personal choice, and many mental health professionals respect cultural beliefs while providing evidence-based care.
How to Book Your First Session: Practical Steps
Ready to start? Here’s exactly what to do.
Finding a Therapist in Morocco
Online Directories:
- Med.tn – Lists psychologists and psychiatrists by city
- Med.ma – Moroccan medical directory with booking
- DabaDoc – Online appointment booking platform
- MantraCare/TherapyMantra – Online therapy platforms
Word of Mouth:
- Ask your general practitioner for referrals
- Check with your university counseling center
- Ask friends who’ve had therapy (if comfortable)
- Expat communities often share therapist recommendations
Social Media:
- Many Moroccan therapists now have professional Facebook pages
- Instagram profiles with booking information
- LinkedIn for professional credentials verification
Red Flags to Avoid
Unlicensed Practitioners:
- No displayed credentials or license
- Unwilling to share their training background
- No professional office or official receipts
- Promises of quick “cures”
Overpriced Services:
- Charging 1,000+ MAD per session without clear justification
- Requiring large upfront payments for uncertain services
- Package deals that can’t be refunded
Warning Signs:
- Therapist shares personal problems during your session
- Inappropriate boundary crossing
- Pressure to continue when you want to stop
- No clear treatment plan or goals
Questions to Ask Before Booking
About Cost:
- “What is your fee per session?”
- “Do you accept insurance, and which companies?”
- “Do you offer sliding scale fees?”
- “What’s your cancellation policy? Is there a fee?”
- “How long are sessions typically?”
About Treatment:
- “What is your therapeutic approach?” (CBT, psychodynamic, etc.)
- “What’s your experience with my specific issue?”
- “How long does treatment typically take?”
- “How often would you recommend sessions?”
- “Do you speak English/French/Arabic?” (if relevant)
What to Expect to Pay Upfront
First Session:
- Usually costs the same or slightly more than regular sessions
- Most therapists require payment immediately after the session
- Bring cash (200-600 MAD depending on therapist)
- Ask for a receipt for insurance purposes
Cancellation Fees:
- Most therapists charge full or partial fee if you cancel with less than 24-48 hours notice
- Typical cancellation fee: 50-100% of session cost
- Emergency situations may be exceptions
Insurance Reimbursement:
- You almost always pay upfront
- Submit receipts to insurance later
- Reimbursement takes 3-6 months typically
- Not guaranteed even with coverage
Alternatives and Emergency Resources
When you can’t afford therapy right now or need immediate help.
Free Crisis Support
Mental Health Hotlines in Morocco:
While Morocco has limited mental health hotlines compared to Western countries, these resources can help:
- SOS Médecins: 05 22 98 98 98 (Casablanca)
- Emergency Services: 150 (ambulance/medical emergency)
- Police Emergency: 19 (in crisis situations)
When to Go to Emergency Room:
Visit the emergency department immediately if you or someone else:
- Has thoughts of suicide with a plan
- Is experiencing psychosis or delusions
- Is in immediate danger
- Has severe panic attacks that won’t resolve
Emergency psychiatric evaluation in public hospitals is free or low-cost.
Self-Help Resources
Free Apps:
- Headspace (some free content)
- Calm (basic version free)
- MindShift (anxiety management)
- MoodTools (depression support)
Books and Podcasts:
- Many self-help books available at libraries
- Mental health podcasts in Arabic, French, and English
- YouTube channels for CBT techniques and coping skills
Online Support Communities:
- Reddit mental health communities
- Facebook support groups (some Morocco-specific)
- Discord mental health servers
Important: Self-help is valuable but doesn’t replace professional treatment for serious conditions.
Employer Assistance Programs
If Available Through Your Job:
- Some international companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- May include free counseling sessions (typically 3-8 per year)
- Completely confidential from your employer
- Check your employee handbook or HR department
How to Access Confidentially:
- Contact the EAP provider directly (not through your boss)
- Services are separate from company health insurance
- Sessions often available in multiple languages
For Expats and International Residents
International Insurance Coverage:
- Many expat insurance plans cover mental health
- Coverage typically better than Moroccan AMO
- May cover online therapy with therapists abroad
- Check if you can see therapists in Morocco or need to go abroad
English/French-Speaking Therapists:
- More available in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech
- Expect to pay premium rates (400-600 MAD per session)
- Many trained in Europe or North America
- Some offer online sessions if you’re outside major cities
Repatriation for Mental Health Care:
- Some insurance policies cover return to home country for treatment
- Consider if intensive treatment not available in Morocco
- Typically for serious psychiatric emergencies only
Final Thoughts: Making Therapy Accessible
Understanding therapist session costs in Morocco is the first step toward getting the help you need. Whether you choose public services at 150 MAD per session, private therapy at 300-500 MAD, or online options, the most important thing is taking that first step.
Mental health challenges affect nearly half of Morocco’s population, yet access to care remains limited. Don’t let cost prevent you from seeking help. Explore your insurance coverage, ask about sliding scale fees, and consider all your options—from university clinics to online therapy.
Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your mental health is worth the investment, and there are options at every price point.
Next Steps to Get Started
- Assess your budget: Determine what you can realistically afford monthly
- Check your insurance: Contact AMO/RAMED or private insurance about mental health coverage
- Research therapists: Contact 2-3 therapists to compare costs and approaches
- Book a first session: Many therapists offer consultation calls to assess fit
- Give it time: Therapy requires commitment, but most people see improvement within 6-12 weeks
Quick Reference: Morocco Therapy Cost Summary
Public Sector:
- Consultation: 100-200 MAD
- Hospitalization: 0-300 MAD per day
- Wait times: Long
- Quality: Variable
Private Psychologist:
- Major cities: 250-500 MAD
- Smaller cities: 200-350 MAD
- Session length: 45-60 minutes
Private Psychiatrist:
- Major cities: 300-600 MAD
- Smaller cities: 200-400 MAD
- Medication extra: 200-800 MAD monthly
Online Therapy:
- Budget platforms: $10-20 per session
- Standard platforms: $50-70 per session
- Morocco-based online: 200-500 MAD
Insurance Coverage:
- AMO: Limited mental health coverage
- RAMED: Basic hospitalization only
- Private mutuelle: 2,000-5,000 MAD annual limit (varies)
Remember: These are approximate ranges. Always confirm costs directly with your chosen therapist or facility.