Counseling Articles

Clinically Reviewed By: Corey Pitts, MA, LCMHC

How does online counseling work?

Online counseling includes sessions at a programmed interval, such as once a week. You may also contact your therapist in between sessions through the online platform to get guidance in hard moments, or simply to remember specific things that you would like to talk about in your next session.

According to studies, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy, in addition to being more comfortable and accessible for some. In fact, many people prefer to participate in counseling online rather than in-person because of the flexibility, convenience, and ease. Online counseling can provide the support and guidance you need to embark on a path toward renewal and mental health restoration right from home.

Types of online counseling available

Online therapy can be a great way to address your mental health needs in a format that may feel less stressful and easier to access than traditional therapy. There are different kinds available, as licensed therapists typically have areas of expertise. Online therapy platforms may have a variety of therapists to choose from so that you can find someone who matches your personality, needs, and therapy goals. 

Online mental health services include but are not limited to:

• Individual counseling

• Couples counseling

• Teen counseling

• Career, grief, religion, and other specialty formats

Users can connect with therapists through a number of modalities, no matter what type of counseling they're doing. An online platform may support video chats, phone calls, live chats, and messaging. The goal is that clients and therapists can find the ways to communicate that work best for them.

What to expect in your first session

When you first sign up with BetterHelp, you start by filling out a brief intake questionnaire to match you with a therapist who fits what you’re looking for. Once you’re matched, your first therapy session is a chance to discuss your mental health history and needs with your therapist. 

Using this information, your therapist can work with you to create a treatment plan that often includes setting realistic goals and benchmarks, as well as teaching tools and techniques that you can use in between sessions.

What mental health conditions can online counseling help with?

Online therapy may help with a variety of mental health conditions. Research supports it being as effective as in-person therapies for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It may assist people who are experiencing life transitions or having relationship or communication issues. Therapy can be a useful tool for both individuals and couples going through things like breakups or divorce. Online counseling can be a convenient option if divorce is taking up your time, as it allows you to chat with a therapist remotely through live video calls, voice calls, or in-app messaging.

It’s important to note that online therapy does not replace medication management or crisis care.

Why choose BetterHelp for online therapy?

BetterHelp is a modern approach to mental health care. Here’s why it could be the right fit for you. 

Licensed, accredited therapists and mental health professionals

All of the therapists on BetterHelp’s platform are licensed, accredited, and experienced. Each is credentialed in their state of practice and is vetted before joining the platform. This gives users ease of mind knowing that the therapist they’re speaking to is legitimate and has their best intentions in mind during each session.

Flexible, convenient access

One advantage of online therapy for many people is that you can attend a session from home, on a work break, or from anywhere else. There are no waitlists or commutes, so you can save time in your day and fit in your therapy on your schedule. You can also take advantage of the messaging tools that are available to you during and between sessions.

Affordable options and insurance

BetterHelp has subscription-based pricing with different plans available to fit a variety of budgets. Prices are also based on your location, preferences, and the availability of your therapist, and financial aid may be available for those who need it. Many people find that online therapy is less expensive and more cost-effective than some in-person therapy options. 

Please note that BetterHelp is not considered in-network for health insurance. However, you can check with your health insurance provider to see if you are eligible for a potential reimbursement. 

Is online counseling the right choice?

Online counseling may be an excellent option for people looking for mental health care while balancing a busy life in the modern world. Between work, family and friends, health, and other obligations, you might think that you don’t have time for therapy, but BetterHelp is in your pocket when you need it. Online therapy is also helpful for people who live in underserved areas or who have limited mobility and find it challenging to routinely make it to a therapist’s office. 

Although it can be effective for addressing a variety of mental health challenges, online counseling isn’t appropriate for every case. In-person therapy might be a better option for those who have severe psychiatric conditions or who need crisis care.

If online counseling sounds like the right fit for you, you can get started by browsing BetterHelp’s network of licensed therapists today. 

FAQs

Is online counseling as effective as in-person therapy?

Research shows online counseling can be equally effective as in-person therapy for many common mental health conditions.

Do I need a referral to start online counseling on BetterHelp?

In general, you do not need a referral from your primary care physician or anyone else to accept care from most types of mental health professionals. However, referrals may help with health insurance coverage, and they may sometimes be necessary to get psychiatric care or any mental health treatment involving medication management.

Can BetterHelp therapists prescribe medication?

No, BetterHelp therapists cannot prescribe medication or offer medication management services. However, BetterHelp provides separate online psychiatry and medication management services through its partnership with UpLift, allowing you to consult with licensed psychiatrists who can prescribe medication.

Can I switch therapists if I'm not satisfied with my match?

Yes, BetterHelp allows you to switch to a different licensed therapist at any time at no extra cost.

Can teens use BetterHelp for online counseling?

Yes, BetterHelp offers a dedicated teen counseling platform called TeenCounselor for users aged 13–17.