Is Therapy Free in Denmark? A Guide for Internationals

If you’re used to seeing your GP without paying for the appointment, you might expect therapy to work the same way. Then you start looking for a psychologist or psychotherapist and find session fees, referral requirements, and unfamiliar terms.

Some mental health treatment in Denmark is free. Some is subsidised, meaning you pay part of the cost. Private therapy is generally paid for by you or your insurer. Which options are available depends on your circumstances and eligibility.

Getting a referral from your GP

Your GP can help assess what you’re struggling with and discuss treatment options. If you meet the criteria, they may refer you to a psychologist under the public subsidy scheme.

Eligible concerns include mild to moderate depression, anxiety, including OCD, and certain serious life events, such as bereavement, violence, or a serious accident. Experiencing one of these events doesn’t automatically qualify you. Your GP needs to assess whether the referral criteria are met.

Under the standard scheme, the public subsidy covers 60% of the agreed fee, and you pay the remaining amount. You must see a psychologist who participates in the scheme, often described as having a ydernummer. A referral cannot be used to reduce the fee with any practitioner you choose.

When is therapy free in Denmark?

People aged 18–24 at the time of referral can receive therapy without a personal payment under the scheme when referred for mild to moderate depression or anxiety, including OCD. Being in that age group alone doesn’t qualify you; the referral must meet the relevant criteria.

Other public or municipal services in Denmark may also offer free support. Ask your GP or municipality what is available for your situation.

How many subsidised sessions can you have?

The psychologist scheme generally provides a subsidy for up to 12 appointments. For depression or anxiety, including OCD, a further referral may allow up to 12 additional appointments if the requirements are met.

This is separate from treatment through public psychiatric services, which has its own assessment and referral processes.

Can you have therapy in English?

Ask the provider which languages they offer and whether they regularly work in your preferred language. This applies to both subsidised and privately paid appointments.

You can also ask about their experience with your concerns and their current availability. Waiting times vary, so it’s useful to contact providers directly rather than assume how soon you can start.

How does privately paid therapy work?

You can usually contact a private psychologist or psychotherapist directly without a GP referral. You pay their fee unless another arrangement, such as insurance coverage, has been confirmed.

Private therapy gives you the option to look for a particular practitioner, language, or approach outside the subsidy scheme. Availability still varies between therapists.

Before booking, check the session price, appointment length, and cancellation terms. If cost is a concern, discuss it early so you understand the commitment.

Can insurance cover the cost?

Some employer, private health, or international insurance policies cover therapy. Check with your insurer before starting, giving them the details of the practitioner you want to see.

Ask whether you need approval or a referral, how many sessions are covered, and whether you must pay first and claim reimbursement. Coverage for psychologists and psychotherapists may differ, and couples or child therapy may have separate conditions.

Where should you start?

If you want to explore public treatment or a psychologist subsidy, book an appointment with your GP. You can explain what’s happening without knowing which diagnosis or service might apply, and whether you can access therapy for free in Denmark.

If you’re considering therapy in English at Village Therapy, you’re welcome to contact us. We can explain our services and fees so you can decide whether they fit what you’re looking for.