The program I’m starting is out of my insurance network and very expensive, but my parents are willing to help me pay for it. However, I’m concerned because the cost quoted was just an estimate of how much therapy the hospital thinks I’ll need, based on my mom’s description on the phone. She barely knows what’s going on and has no idea that I’m suicidal, just that I’m “struggling.” They told her they’d expect about 4 sessions a day, 3 times a week - but it’ll depend on their assessment at the intake appointment. 

I’m thinking that if I share how horrible I’m truly feeling at the intake appointment, they’ll want me to come in more frequently, find a more intensive program, or go in-patient. I’m very worried about this because it’s already extremely expensive and I don’t see how my family could pay any more than what this estimate was.

I’ve been stressing about how honest I should be and how much I should share about my suicidal thoughts and self-harm behaviors. I want to get the help I need, but adding more crippling debt to my life or my family isn’t going to help long-term. I live across the country from my parents and that’s why I can’t find any programs here covered by their insurance. Moving back to their state, even temporarily, is not an option. AndI already have a lot of debt. But I do need help ASAP as I’m not really functioning, I’ve already waited too long, and this is the only program that doesn’t have a weeks-long waitlist. 

I was wondering if anyone here has experience with this process or advice. Of course, it’s the U.S. 

Should I hold back a little truth upfront and get the treatment I can afford? Or should I be honest and hope it doesn’t turn into massive debt?