If the idea of doing therapy in your own time and in your own environment appeals to you, you’re not alone. While not for everyone, online therapy, also known as telehealth, is fast becoming one of the most popular ways for people to obtain mental health care.
If you’re new to therapy or want to learn more about how online counselling works, you should do some research. With that in mind, here are our top ten online therapy choices.
What is Online Therapy?
Online therapy, often known as teletherapy, is remote therapy sessions conducted by video calls, chat rooms, email, or phone. Its popularity has skyrocketed after therapists increased their options to keep people safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Many people choose teletherapy because it is typically more convenient, private, and cost-effective than in-person sessions. Online platforms also make therapy more accessible to those who are pressed for time, must stay at home, or reside in remote locations.
How we made our decision
Each online therapy service was rigorously evaluated by our team of medical specialists. They assessed each platform’s medical credibility, business procedures, and social impact to ensure they met our high criteria.
When deciding on the finest online therapy platforms, we took into account a number of factors, including:
- All licenced psychotherapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists work in the field of mental health.
- An easy registration procedure
- positive client feedback
- costs and flexible payment options.
- a variety of membership plans and services.
- insurance protection
- monetary aid
- therapists that specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marital troubles, drug abuse, grieving, and eating disorders.
Top 10 Best Online Therapy Services To Try In 2022
Let’s take a look at the best online therapy services listed below.
#1. BetterHelp
Why we selected it: BetterHelp offers the most competent therapists and the most user-friendly site. It is simple to change therapists and terminate your plan. Furthermore, the organisation offers financial aid to qualifying people.
- Platforms include voice, chat, messaging, and video.
- Yes, an app is available.
BetterHelp gives access to over 12,000 counsellors that are licenced, accredited, and experienced. The organisation specialises in matching therapists to your specific requirements and preferences.
BetterHelp’s licenced psychologists, professional social workers, and marriage and family therapists are experts in a variety of fields, including:
- anxiety
- depression
- relationships
- parenting
- addiction
- grief
- consuming disorders
- Transitions in life
- religion
BetterHelp also provides solo, couple, and family therapy. Sessions with your therapist take place via video conferencing, message exchange, live chat, and phone calls. The live sessions are highly rated by users, with many citing them as the reason they picked BetterHelp.
After you complete a questionnaire and create an account, a computer programme will match you with a therapist who meets your individual needs. This typically takes approximately 24 hours, and you can always seek a different counsellor.
Price: Weekly rates range from $60 to $90, payable monthly.
BetterHelp does not take insurance, so you will have to pay for counselling sessions out of cash. For those who qualify, financial aid is available, and you may terminate your membership at any time.
Pros
- The website and smartphone app are simple to use.
- You can communicate with your therapist by text, live chat, phone, or video conference.
- Financial assistance is available.
Cons
- Therapists are unable to diagnose or prescribe drugs.
- Most insurance companies do not cover the service.
- The service is not intended to be used in a crisis.
#2. Talkspace
Why did we pick it? Talkspace provides a variety of communication channels, therapy alternatives, and subscription levels that are both flexible and affordable. Furthermore, the organisation is able to provide drugs and take insurance.
- Platforms include voice, chat, messaging, and video.
- Yes, an app is available.
Talkspace is the largest network of mental health specialists, with over 3,000 licenced therapists and several membership levels.
After signing up, you’ll take an evaluation and select a payment plan. A consultation therapist will then pair you with numerous therapists. You will select the one that best meets your requirements. You’ll start working with them in a matter of days.
Therapists address a wide range of diseases or issues, including:
- depression
- anxiety
- addiction
- consuming disorders
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) (PTSD)
- Relationship problems
They provide individual therapy as well as services for couples and teens. Furthermore, Talkspace Psychiatry provides tailored psychiatric therapy as well as medication monitoring by a qualified physician.
Price: Talkspace offers numerous membership options, ranging from $69 to $129 per week. Text, video, audio, and live sessions are all part of these initiatives. Some users complain about needing to sign up for a complete month of services, which means you’ll be charged for the entire month even if you cancel early.
An initial examination in psychiatry costs $249, and follow-up appointments cost $120.
Coverage: You may be qualified for coverage if you have an employee assistance programme (EAP) with mental health benefits. Check with your boss.
Pros
- You can contact your therapist at any time.
- Texting may be more comfortable for you than in-person meetings.
- Talkspace provides savings for biannual or quarterly payments.
Cons
- There is no sliding scale for payments.
- Many insurance policies do not cover the service.
- Time zone variations with your therapists might stymie quick communication.
#3. Online-Therapy.com
Why did we select it? CBT is used to treat a variety of mental health disorders and habits, making it ideal for self-improvement. Yoga, meditation, and worksheets are used in treatment.
- Platforms include voice, text, and video.
- There is no app available.
The whole operation of Online-Therapy.com is based on CBT. This method is a top choice for treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including:
- depression
- anxiety
- Problems with alcohol and drugs
- consuming disorders
- phobias
CBT assists you in identifying, challenging, and overcoming negative or unhelpful thinking as well as developing behaviour changes that help you think and interact more positively.
Worksheets, an online journal, a 30-minute weekly live chat with your therapist, and messaging are among the materials used by Online-Therapy.com. Some customers are concerned that therapists are only available Monday through Friday for 8 hours each day, as opposed to other services that provide 24/7 help.
Price: Depending on the plan, prices range from $39.95 to $79.95 each week.
They do not take insurance, but new members receive a 20% discount on their first month’s payments.
Pros
- You will be given an online CBT course.
- The app and website are simple to use.
- Worksheets with daily comments from your therapist are delivered to you.
Cons
- You’ll almost certainly have to pay out of pocket.
- They do not provide 24-hour help.
- The firm is not listed with the Better Business Bureau.
#4. Amwell
Because of its user-friendly platform and the flexibility to choose your healthcare practitioner, Amwell is our top selection for mental and physical health services. During sessions, you can choose to cover your face from view.
- audio and video platforms.
- Yes, an app is available.
Consider Amwell if you’re seeking an online telemedicine platform that provides care for both physical and psychological wellness.
With online doctor or therapist visits accessible 24 hours a day, Amwell is a terrific one-stop-shop. Create an account, select the doctor or therapist that works best for you, and then book an appointment using their web-based or mobile app programme.
Amwell offers assistance with:
- anxiety
- depression
- Trauma or PTSD
- Transitions in life
- Couples therapy
The cost of a psychologist or counsellor appointment ranges from $109 to $129 depending on the therapist and lasts around 45 minutes. Your therapist will have a master’s or doctoral degree in their profession. They also have online psychiatrists who can provide prescriptions for drugs.
Coverage: If your health insurance plan covers mental health care, your out-of-pocket expenses may be reduced. Amwell does not provide a subscription service. If you need to see a doctor for another reason, the appointment will cost you $79.
Pros
- Depending on your needs, you can choose between a therapist and a psychiatrist.
- Amwell provides services other than therapy. They also have doctors on hand to handle various health issues.
- Your insurance company may cover your visit.
Cons
- They do not provide a subscription service.
- Some reviewers have reported technical issues.
- In comparison to other services, Amwell has fewer communication choices.
#5. MDLive
Why we selected it: MDLive offers psychiatrist-assisted therapy, allows you to select your therapist, and offers low-cost medicines.
- phone and video platforms.
- Yes, an app is available.
MDLive, a complete telemedicine platform, features a psychiatric services branch. Their psychiatry branch provides both counselling and medication management under the supervision of a board-certified psychiatrist.
MDLive can assist with:
- anxiety
- addiction
- depression
- bipolar illness
- Trauma and PTSD
- Panic attacks
- Bereavement and loss
Setting up an account with MDLive takes roughly 15 minutes. After registering, you may explore their network of psychiatrists to find the one who is perfect for you. When you’re ready, you may make an appointment through secure online video, phone, or the MDLive app.
MDLive does not have a subscription-based service. You should anticipate spending $284 for your initial visit to a psychiatrist and $108 for each subsequent consultation.
For $108 per session, the site also provides behavioural health therapy with a qualified therapist. This is a useful tool if you need to transfer from a psychiatrist to continuous therapy sessions.
Urgent care visits are $82 and dermatological visits are $95.
Coverage: If you have health insurance and your plan covers mental health care, your out-of-pocket expenses may be reduced.
Pros
- A doctor is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Prescription drugs can save members up to 85%.
- Some businesses incorporate MDLive as part of their employee benefits package.
Cons
- MDLive does not provide subscription services.
- Seeing a psychiatrist is more expensive than other related services.
- They do not provide email or chat support.
#6. 7 Cups
Why we selected it: With free sessions and a low monthly fee, 7 Cups is our top option for low-cost online therapy. Counseling, emotional support, and peer support are all available through the site.
- Platforms for chatting and texting
- Yes, an app is available.
7 Cups is one of the largest emotional support systems, providing affordable online therapy, free 24/7 emotional support, and chat rooms with individuals who understand what you’re going through.
Among the specialties and areas of specialisation are:
- addiction
- anxiety
- bipolar illness
- depression
- family
- grief
- parenting
- usage of substances.
- trauma
The cost of online therapy and counselling with qualified therapists is $150 per month, which is much cheaper than the cost of other online therapy platforms. Furthermore, 7 Cups provides free emotional support and access to a trained volunteer (not a professional psychotherapist). This option is suited for assistance and connecting you with services.
If you require more extensive treatment, choose the premium subscription plan with a qualified therapist. After making an account, you’ll be able to pick between a free version and a paid membership. If you choose the free trained volunteer option, you will have immediate access. The subscription option necessitates more information in order to connect you with the best therapist.
Coverage: The services provided by this website are not typically covered by health insurance.
Pros
- The “freemium” approach is popular among users.
- You may talk to a qualified volunteer for free.
- The programme allows users to communicate in a free group chat.
Cons
- There have been several reports of issues with the app.
- According to reviewers, some novice active listeners do not pay attention and are judgemental or disrespectful.
- You will not receive expert assistance until you pay.
#7. ReGain
Why we selected it: ReGain is our top option for couples therapy because it has counsellors that specialise in relationships and a large number of satisfied customers who report excellent outcomes.
- Chat, message, phone, and video platforms
- Yes, an app is available.
When you want couples counselling, you should seek the services of a professional therapist who is experienced in dealing with relationship difficulties. This is why ReGain is the best option for online couple therapy.
Accredited psychologists, licenced marital and family therapists, licenced clinical social workers, and licenced professional counsellors are all licenced.
The automatic system will connect you with a therapist once you complete a questionnaire. Two users share an account and engage in live therapy sessions together. A solitary session is organised if only one person needs to meet with the therapist confidentially. They do not offer three-way live sessions; therefore, both parties must be present in the same room at the same time to talk with the therapist in real-time.
Prices: Prices for both spouses range from $60 to $90 each week.
Services provided via this website are often not covered by health insurance.
Pros
- Relationship therapy is something that all ReGain counsellors specialise in or are interested in.
- Counseling can be attended by one or both couples at no additional expense.
- When you first sign up for the programme, you will receive a one-week free trial.
Cons
- Because the programme does not offer three-way live sessions, you and your partner must be in the same location.
- ReGain is not appropriate for court-ordered therapy.
- It is unknown if ReGain works with non-monogamous couples.
#8. Teen Counseling
Teen counselling is an excellent resource for teenagers, parents, and guardians. The platform employs therapists that specialise in resolving teen concerns and encouraging good changes.
- Chat, message, phone, and video platforms
- Yes, an app is available.
Teen Counseling is an online platform for kids aged 13 to 19. They provide live chats, phone conversations, video conferencing, and texting with a certified therapist in a “private” therapy room.
Among the concerns that therapists might address during counselling sessions are:
- anxiety
- stress
- depression
- bullying
- consuming disorders
Although parents are not permitted to enter this room, a therapist is required to report abuse and if the teen is a risk to themselves or others. Parents can finish the registration process, which includes matching with a qualified counsellor. Your kid will be sent a code that will allow them to access their private space.
Price: Weekly rates range from $60 to $90.
Services provided via this website are often not covered by health insurance.
Pros
- All sessions are strictly confidential.
- Counselors are experts in dealing with adolescent concerns.
- The “rooms” are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Cons
- This programme is not appropriate for court-ordered therapy.
- Teen counselling should not be used in an emergency.
- Counselors are unable to make a diagnosis.
#9. Pride Counseling
Why did we choose it? While providing a secure, supportive environment for LGBTQ people to seek mental health treatment, Pride Counseling links you to an LGBTQ-accepting therapist.
- Chat, message, phone, and video platforms
- Yes, an app is available.
Therapists at Pride Counseling realise that the LGBTQ community is disproportionately affected by mental health issues and want to make treatment available to everyone.
After you sign up, you’ll be paired with a counsellor who matches your goals, preferences, and the nature of your problems. Their counsellors all specialise in supporting the LGBTQ community, but their methodologies and areas of concentration differ.
Expertise includes the following areas:
- anxiety
- stress
- depression
- trauma
- family disagreements
- relationships
- consuming disorders
Accredited psychologists, licenced marital and family therapists, licenced clinical social workers, and licenced professional counsellors are all licenced. Counselling sessions are held with your therapist via video conferencing, phone conversations, live chat, and message exchange.
Price: Weekly rates range from $60 to $90.
Coverage: The services provided by this website are not typically covered by health insurance.
Pros
- All counsellors have prior experience and a desire to assist the LGBTQ community.
- You can peruse the written communications exchanged between you and your counsellor.
- The app and website are simple to use.
Cons
- Minors are not permitted to use the service.
- Your counsellor will be unable to diagnose you or prescribe medicine.
- The service is not appropriate for use in an emergency.
#10. Doctor on Demand
Why did we select it? Doctor on Demand is our top choice for folks who prefer to do single sessions rather than commit to a plan. Psychologists and psychiatrists are available through the site. You can also schedule health and wellness exams with a healthcare practitioner.
- Video platforms
- Yes, an app is available.
Are you unsure about committing to a subscription plan? No worries. Doctor on Demand provides single video chat sessions with registered psychiatrists and therapists who are skilled in mental health.
Following an initial examination, you may browse their list of psychiatrists and therapists and schedule an appointment.
Expertise includes the following areas:
- anxiety
- depression
- bipolar illness
- trauma
- Depression after childbirth
- Anger control
If medicine is prescribed as part of your therapy, your psychiatrist can send electronic prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choosing. They also offer medical doctor visits for different bodily issues.
Price: A 25-minute session with a psychologist costs $129, and a 50-minute consultation costs $179. A 45-minute first consultation in psychiatry costs $299, and a 15-minute follow-up costs $129.
Insurance is accepted by Doctor on Demand. Check with your insurance provider to verify if your plan is acceptable.
Pros
- Licensed providers often have more than 15 years of expertise.
- Psychiatrists can send prescriptions to your preferred pharmacy.
- A subscription is not required.
Cons
- Some users have reported technical difficulties.
- There is no email or chat assistance accessible.
- When compared to other online programmes, there are fewer therapists available.
- Who is the greatest candidate for online therapy?
Teletherapy is appropriate for those who enjoy a variety of communication forms and are comfortable communicating and disclosing personal information through technology. It’s critical to have a peaceful, private space, a working device, and a strong, dependable internet connection.
Online therapy may help a wide range of people and ailments. It can treat a variety of concerns and moods, including:
- anxiety
- depression
- Relationship problems
- self-esteem challenges
- stress
- Significant life changes
Online therapy is also appropriate for those who:
- They feel more at ease in their own surroundings.
- Due to a handicap or health condition, they are unable to leave their house.
- Absence of transportation
- I reside in a rural or isolated location.
- If you have a busy or changing schedule,
- Want a low-cost therapy alternative?
Online therapy, on the other hand, is not appropriate for use in emergencies or mental health crises. You’ll also need a steady connection to a computer or smartphone, as well as wifi, to access the platform and your therapist.
In addition, certain platforms do not provide legal documents for court-ordered therapy. While text therapy might be beneficial, it is not suitable for everyone. Some individuals miss having face-to-face interaction, while others prefer to be outdoors.
What to anticipate from online therapy
While there are many parallels between online therapy and in-person therapy, there are significant distinctions to be aware of. The key one is that appointments will be conducted mostly over video, phone, or message.
Making contact with a therapist
You may be able to select your therapist, as with face-to-face therapy. This is dependent on the platform you utilise, since some match you with a mental health expert who best meets your requirements and goals. Some teletherapy systems, on the other hand, allow you to sort through a list of available therapists and counsellors.
Your own initial consultation
Your initial visit, like in-person therapy, may consist of getting to know one another. Your therapist may quiz you about:
- What do you hope to accomplish in therapy?
- any traumatic events or triggers.
- Whether or not you’ve ever gone to therapy
- If you have been diagnosed with any mental health disorder,
- If you are already taking any drugs for mental health issues,
- Do you have any future plans?
If you completed any questionnaires or intake forms before your meeting, your therapist may go over your responses with you to confirm they are correct.
Using your online therapist to communicate
Because all contact is done remotely, some people prefer online therapy. This will ultimately be determined by the platform you select, your therapist, and any memberships you’ve purchased. Between sessions, you may be able to communicate by text or voice call.
Online therapy is more convenient for many people if they have constant access to a computer or smartphone. However, if you don’t have a planned session, don’t expect your therapist to answer right away. It may take them hours or days to respond in such circumstances.
The Advantages of Online Therapy
Online therapy, like in-person therapy, is a counselling session with a professional therapist or psychiatrist. Your sessions, however, take place at home rather than at an office.
It is up to you how your therapist conducts a meeting. Live videos, phone conversations, and messaging are the most prevalent modes of distribution. What’s more, the finest part? Many specialists are available early in the morning, late in the afternoon, and on weekends, making therapy more accessible than ever.
This kind of counselling may take some getting used to for some people. For others, though, virtual encounters will be the reason they begin and continue with therapy.
You’re set if you already have a therapist who does online counselling. However, if your counsellor does not provide virtual sessions or if you are new to therapy, there are several online programmes and platforms accessible.