Can Teens Use BetterHelp? A Guide To BetterHelp For Teens And Teen Counseling

TL;DR: BetterHelp offers a separate platform, called Teen Counseling, for teenagers ages 13 to 19. Many providers on Teen Counseling specialize in issues that affect teens, and since the clients are minors, parents or guardians may be involved.

Because of their rapid growth and development, teens and young adults may face unique mental health challenges. The rise in popularity of online therapy through platforms like BetterHelp has provided adults with a convenient and flexible way to receive support for their challenges. BetterHelp's sister site, Teen Counseling, utilizes the same type of platform and subscription model as BetterHelp, connecting teenagers ages 13 to 19 with licensed therapists. Teens may speak with a therapist through video, phone, or live chat sessions on the platform. Like BetterHelp, Teen Counseling therapists are experienced in effective therapeutic techniques, including modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and others. Teens can complete a brief questionnaire during the sign-up process to be connected with a suitable therapist.

Common concerns that bring teens to therapy

Because adolescence is a time of significant physical and emotional changes, teens may face a wide variety of mental health concerns in addition to, or instead of, anxiety disorders, depression, and behavioral disorders. Some of these might include the following:

• Low self-esteem and body image concerns, potentially leading to eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder
• Academic stress, difficulties with teachers, and social challenges like bullying and peer pressure, potentially leading to substance or alcohol misuse to “fit in” or cope emotionally
• Conflicts with family members or romantic partners
• Confusion or anxiety symptoms related to gender identity or sexual orientation

What is BetterHelp’s Teen Counseling platform?

Like BetterHelp, Teen Counseling therapists are experienced in effective therapeutic techniques, including modalities like:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and others.

Teens can complete a brief questionnaire during the sign-up process to be connected with a suitable therapist.

How does Teen Counseling differ from BetterHelp’s adult therapy offerings?

Because their clients are minors, mental health professionals working on the Teen Counseling platform may involve parents or guardians in the therapeutic process, potentially through communication with the therapist, depending on the situation. BetterHelp, on the other hand, generally works directly with the individual client (aged 18+) and does not typically involve family members in the same way. While both platforms utilize licensed therapists, Teen Counseling may have therapists with specific expertise in teen mental health, including concerns like peer pressure, academic stress, and identity development. 

Why online therapy might be particularly well-suited for teens?

Most of the current teenage population belongs to Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012). These young people grew up with the internet and social media from birth, making them the first digitally native generation. As such, they may be more adept at using virtual therapy platforms. They may also feel more at ease in a virtual environment, which can reduce self-consciousness and make it easier to open up in therapy. Additionally, social media and open conversations online have contributed to the normalization of mental health challenges and treatment, potentially making it less daunting for Gen Z to seek help. 

When online therapy may not be appropriate for your teen?

Online therapy may not always be the best option for teenagers. For example, those living with severe mental health conditions like psychotic disorders or those with complex symptoms may require more intensive, in-person treatment. Online therapy may not be the best option for teens who have experienced recent trauma or are at risk for a mental health crisis, self-harm, or suicide. In addition, Teen Counseling does not provide medication management services.

What is the role of parents in teen counseling?

Research shows that parents often play a vital role in their teens' counseling journeys. When parents act as supportive partners alongside their teen and the therapist, their involvement can enhance the effectiveness of therapy. Open communication among parents, teens, and the therapist can be critical. This open communication involves:

• Actively listening to the teen's perspective
• Expressing any concerns
• Collaboratively working toward solutions

Parents can work with their teen’s therapist to understand treatment goals, reinforce strategies learned in therapy, and ensure consistency between therapy sessions and daily life at home. Parents can also create a safe space for their teen to discuss their challenges and feelings outside of therapy sessions. This may involve actively listening, validating their teen's emotions, and offering reassurance and encouragement. 

How can you balance independence, autonomy, and parental involvement in teen counseling?

Although parental involvement can be integral to achieving the best outcomes, some teens may benefit from more parental involvement than others. Open communication about the level of parental involvement with the therapist and the teenager may achieve a balance that works for everyone. Children often desire more independence as they develop into teenagers. As such, it may be necessary to balance parental support with the teen's need for autonomy within the therapeutic process. 

What are the benefits of family therapy?

Family involvement, including family therapy, can help address relationship dynamics that may be contributing to the teen's struggles. Therapeutic involvement can also encourage caregivers to model healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, disappointment, and other challenges, providing a positive example for their teen. Parenting a teen struggling with mental health challenges can be emotionally demanding for caregivers, too. Often, parents can benefit from individual mental health support to help them learn to cope with and navigate challenges like stress, conflict, and emotional overwhelm. 

Teen Counseling sign-up, matching, and preparation 

To begin therapy through Teen Counseling, parents or guardians can create an account on the website or app. They’ll be given an initial questionnaire about the teen’s background, including their age, gender, and reasons for seeking therapy. The questionnaire also includes questions about the teen's mental health history, current struggles, and preferences for a therapist. Based on the questionnaire, the system automatically matches the teen with a licensed therapist, taking into account their needs, preferences, and the therapist's expertise. 

Once matched, the teen can connect with their therapist through the Teen Counseling platform, either via the app or website. They can communicate with the therapist through messaging, live sessions (video, audio, or live chat), and other tools. Parents or guardians can also participate in live sessions separately or together with the teen, depending on their preference. If the initial therapist match isn't a good fit, users can switch therapists as needed for no additional cost. 

How can you help your teen prepare for counseling?

To help your teen prepare for online counseling, you might initiate an open conversation about why therapy is being suggested, emphasizing it as a positive step toward mental well-being. Acknowledge and validate any fears or concerns they may have, and reassure them that seeking therapy can be a healthy way to address challenges, much like going to the doctor when they’re sick or injured. 

Consider allowing your teen to have some input in choosing their therapist. Encourage them to reflect on their goals and expectations for therapy and write down a list of questions or topics they’d like to address with their counselor. Let them know that therapy is a collaborative process between them and their counselor, and their input and feedback are integral to the success of their treatment. You might also encourage them to communicate any concerns or discomfort they experience after they've begun the process. Remind them they can always change therapists if the first professional isn’t a good fit. 

What can you expect from your teen’s online therapy experience?

Sessions on Teen Counseling are conducted in a dedicated virtual "room." Live sessions typically last between 30 and 45 minutes, with the first session often involving the parent to establish expectations and clarify the program's details. After the first session, the teen typically has one-on-one sessions with the therapist. During sessions, the therapist will generally work to create a safe and comfortable space for the teen to discuss their thoughts and feelings.

They may help your teen:

• Identify and process their emotions
• Learn healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety
• Set goals for therapy
• Track their progress

Your teen might be given “homework” assignments to practice new skills or strategies outside of therapy sessions. 

What are the advantages of online mental health services for teens?

Online therapy may offer advantages to users of all ages when compared to traditional in-person treatment. For example, it can eliminate the need to travel to appointments, breaking down potential geographical barriers for those living in remote areas or with limited transportation options. Online sessions can often be scheduled around school, extracurricular activities, and other commitments, offering more flexibility for busy teens and their families. Additionally, some teens might feel more comfortable and less vulnerable interacting through screens, particularly those who experience social anxiety symptoms, fear of judgment, or concerns about mental health stigma. 

What are the evidence-based benefits of online therapy for teens?

Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and other conditions. A 2024 study reported that online therapy for children, teens, and young adults tended to be most effective for depression, anxiety disorders, and social function.