Is Therapy Free in Denmark? A Guide for Internationals

Written by Ariel Andersen, MA, Couples and Family Therapy, Psychotherapist MPF

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.

For depression and anxiety, this 60% subsidy applies if you're 25 or older. If you're between 18 and 24, a different, free system applies, described below.

When is therapy free in Denmark?

If you're between 18 and 24 and your GP refers you for mild to moderate depression or anxiety, including OCD, treatment is free. Since 1 October 2026, this has been organised by the regions. Once you have a referral, the region assesses what you need and finds you a place in treatment, and you have a legal right to start within 30 days. The regions have said it will take some time before everyone is seen within that window. If they can't offer you treatment within 30 days, you have the right to be treated by a private provider at no cost to you.

Adults with anxiety or depression can also use Internetpsykiatrien, a free online treatment service that's part of the public health system and doesn't require a GP referral. Check whether it's offered in a language you're comfortable having therapy in.

Other public or municipal services may also offer free support. Ask your GP or municipality what's 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.

If living abroad is part of what brings you to therapy, explore our support for life transitions and living abroad, including cultural adjustment, homesickness and questions of belonging.