Increase access to research behind paywalls

Written By Lisa C. Thomas LPC ATR-BC .

It’s frustrating that so much valuable research is locked behind paywalls, especially when it could help people. But there are still ways to access academic papers for free. Here are some approaches:

1. Use Open-Access Repositories

Many researchers upload free versions of their papers to open-access sites. Try searching these:

  • Google Scholar – Look for PDFs in the right-hand column.

  • PubMed – Great for medical and psychology research. Some articles are free.

  • ResearchGate – Many researchers share their work here. You can also request a paper from the author.

  • arXiv – Covers quantitative biology (a cellular look at mental health conditions).

  • PsyArXiv – Open-access research in psychology and mental health.

2. Use Unpaywall & Directory of Open Access Journals

3. Contact the Author Directly

Researchers often provide free copies if you email them. Look up their university email or message them on ResearchGate. Many are happy to share their work.

4. Look for Preprints

Many studies are published in preprint form before going behind a paywall. Search for "[paper title] + preprint" on Google or check PsyArXiv, arXiv, or ResearchGate.

Lisa C. Thomas LPC ATR-BC .

Lisa is a trauma- and neuroscience-informed art therapist and counselor currently in private practice in Norfolk, Virginia. Lisa specializes in providing CPT for PTSD, DBT-informed art therapy, and Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

https://coastalarttherapyservices.com
Next

What to Do When Depressed: How Art Therapy Helps Refractory & Chronic Depression