"Is BetterHelp Right For Me?” Key Factors To Consider

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Whether BetterHelp therapy sessions with an online therapist are right for you depends on your needs and preferences. It may be well-suited for individuals seeking convenience and affordability in therapy. The online therapy experience may also be a good option for those who live in remote areas with limited opportunities to use traditional mental health resources, or who prefer online or phone communication. If you want to take a more active role in your treatment, BetterHelp allows users to vet therapists on the platform and makes it easy to switch providers if needed. 

Is there a need for accessible therapy?

Virtual therapy experienced exponential growth in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, as mental health professionals transitioned to virtual platforms to accommodate their clients. Online therapy’s popularity also rose with increased mental health challenges experienced by many during the pandemic. For example, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), rates of anxiety and depression rose by 25%, likely due to factors like increased stress caused by isolation during quarantine—affecting employment (and, by extension, financial stability), social connection, community engagement, and more. 

What is BetterHelp?

BetterHelp is an online platform connecting individuals with licensed professional counselors and therapists for online therapy. Since its inception in 2013, over five million people have used the platform to connect with mental health professionals worldwide. Over 30,000 licensed therapists specializing in a wide range of therapeutic techniques offer online therapy services through BetterHelp across the US and in over 190 countries. In addition to individual therapy for adults, you can find relationship counseling and teen counseling through BetterHelp’s sister sites, Regain and TeenCounseling.  

Once you sign up for online therapy services, you’ll be matched with one of many therapists on our platform. You can then schedule BetterHelp sessions via one of several therapy formats, including phone, video, and live chat. BetterHelp’s practices include other online therapy services such as journal prompts and messaging features. 

What BetterHelp includes

When you decide to get started with BetterHelp, you fill out an online questionnaire designed to match you with the mental health professional that best fits your individual needs. And because therapeutic alliance is an important factor for success, you have the option to switch therapists if you don’t feel a connection. BetterHelp sessions also offer the following supplemental tools:

• Flexible online scheduling
• Journaling prompts
• Habit tracker
• Weekly group classes

When BetterHelp might be a good fit

If you’re seeking therapy and need to see a provider promptly, BetterHelp could be a good option for you. Many people are matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up. You can then schedule your first therapy session. When the time comes, you can meet with your therapist from home or anywhere you have an internet connection. You can also message your therapist anytime between sessions for additional support. 

One of the more significant benefits of an online platform like BetterHelp is flexibility. BetterHelp therapists specialize in a wide range of approaches and therapeutic techniques, which means that no matter where you live, you can find a therapist that meets your needs. 

Preferences you can match on

Factors that may play into the selection process for a therapist may include any combination of the following: 

• Specialized therapeutic framework (i.e. CBT, DBT, EMDR)
• Identity preferences (e.g., sexual orientation)
• Communication style
• Therapeutic techniques

If you live in a rural area, it may not be as easy to find a therapist who is a POC, one who shares the same sexual orientation, or one who uses a less common therapeutic approach. BetterHelp can provide a wider range of professionals than in-person therapy. 

Who BetterHelp may not be right for

Despite the convenience of online therapy services, there may be circumstances in which working with in-person therapists may be more appropriate. For instance, if you’ve been diagnosed with a complex mental health condition or need medication management services, meeting with a therapist or licensed clinical social worker in a more traditional format could be preferable. Also in an emergency care context, in-person care is recommended for continuity of care.  Finally, depending on communication style, in-person counseling may help some develop a deeper therapeutic relationship with their provider, though this can vary. 

When in-person care may be the better option

While therapeutic treatment doesn’t always follow black and white recommendations, in general you will find that in-person therapist care may be best for: 

• Crisis needs
• Complex care coordination
• Treatment that includes medical needs

In certain cases, a medical or mental health provider may suggest online therapy as a maintenance therapy, or supplemental therapy following initial treatment. 

How BetterHelp works from start to finish

If you’ve never explored therapy, getting started can feel a bit intimidating. Let’s take a closer look at the whole process, how BetterHelp sessions work from the moment you visit the website to receive therapy. 

Step 1: Intake and preferences

When you visit the BetterHelp website, you will be directed to fill out a comprehensive online questionnaire. It’s how BetterHelp begins the whole process, learning about what you want from  therapy, and what type of therapist will fit your needs. 

Step 2: Matching, switching, and fit

As the next part of the whole process, BetterHelp will match you with the licensed therapist who meets your desired criteria to ensure that your BetterHelp sessions give you what you need. And if for any reason you don’t feel that your therapist is the right fit, you can switch therapists. 

Step 3: Scheduling and messaging between sessions

Finally, you will choose your plan and schedule your first session. One of the benefits of BetterHelp sessions is that you can often attend therapy at more unconventional times, as therapists aren’t tied to an office or specific office hours. You will attend sessions through the medium of your choice: video conferencing, phone, or live chat. If you have a challenge or question in between sessions, you can use the asynchronous messaging tool to reach out to your therapist, who will get back to you when they are able. 

How many sessions can you do, and can you add more? 

Everyone’s therapy needs are different; therefore BetterHelp sessions can be scheduled to fit your needs. Most clients opt for weekly sessions, and pay monthly. This can often be more affordable than in-person therapy.

If you are experiencing an especially difficult time, you will be able to add additional sessions; simply let your therapist know. 

Typical weekly cadence and session limits

BetterHelp sessions may typically be scheduled in advance, and follow a specific schedule unless you need to change for some reason. The first session can include rapport-building, client history, and goal setting. Subsequent sessions may include therapeutic treatments, with frequent revisiting of goals to ensure that they’re being met in a timely manner. 

Options for additional sessions

When and if you require additional support, you may talk to your therapist about additional sessions, and budget accordingly. Also, be sure to communicate with your therapist to ensure that they are able to offer you the sessions you need. You can also look at adding extra time to a session.

Group options and group therapy alternatives 

If you need additional support, keep in mind that as part of your BetterHelp membership, you receive one group session per week. These group therapy sessions can be a way to bridge the gap and allow you to get a bit of extra support without scheduling extra sessions. 

Weekly group seminars on BetterHelp 

Therapist-led group sessions cover a wide range of topics to choose from. The group sessions BetterHelp offers are held on Zoom, and are scheduled for 90 minutes to allow time for participants to share. 

Group therapy vs group seminars

There are some differences between group seminar sessions on BetterHelp and traditional group therapy. You can choose a BetterHelp group seminar from a wide range of topics, and join over Zoom. You will be able to interact with a therapist and other attendees on the topic of your choice. 

However, group therapy is a more intensive process that includes the same participants working toward a goal week by week. If you are interested in more formal group therapy, then you may want to search through a hospital system or other clinical setting. 

BetterHelp vs other options 

Some may be wondering what exactly makes BetterHelp different from in-person therapy, or even other therapy apps. Let’s take a closer look at the factors that make BetterHelp a unique experience. 

BetterHelp vs in-person therapists

Online therapy with a licensed BetterHelp therapist is in many ways the same as therapy with an in–person practitioner. They receive the same education and training, and research shows that online therapy can be as effective as traditional therapy across a wide range of mental health challenges. However, some ways that working with a BetterHelp provider may differ include: 

• The ability to meet with your therapist from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere with internet connection
• Convenient online scheduling
• Therapist matching, with the option to switch therapists for any reason, avoiding awkward therapist breakups

BetterHelp vs other therapy apps

But what makes BetterHelp different from other therapy apps? For one thing, BetterHelp has been in business for well over a decade, and is the largest online therapy platform in the world. It is well-established and trusted, employing over 30,000 therapists with a variety of expertise and specialities. BetterHelp has also developed a range of tools that can be a useful supplement to weekly sessions: 

• Weekly group seminars
• Habit tracking
• Journaling prompts

Practical considerations–cost, insurance & changing therapists

There may also be practical aspects of therapy to consider before engaging in the sign-up process for a BetterHelp subscription. If you have insurance or a flexible spending account (FSA), for example, you may want to consider what services your plan covers. Because insurance often doesn’t cover therapy, or offers only limited coverage, you may or may not qualify for reimbursement for BetterHelp sessions, depending on your insurance coverage.  Another factor to consider is the BetterHelp matching service and the ability to change therapists anytime to ensure a good fit. In-person counseling services may not include this benefit, and it could be time-consuming to find a new therapist in a traditional format. 

What the subscription covers

Your BetterHelp subscription rate is paid on a monthly basis, and includes not only weekly individual therapy sessions, but also: 

• Weekly group seminars
• In-app messaging with your therapist
• Tools like journaling prompts and habit tracking

What to Look for in a Therapist and Platform Quality

Whether you decide to see an online therapist or attend sessions in person, it may be important to consider therapist qualifications. A qualified therapist will hold a master’s degree or higher in their field of expertise and have years of clinical experience treating clients. When considering online therapy services, think about how body language can factor into your exchanges. Some therapists may be better than others when it comes to forging a therapeutic relationship via video sessions. You may also want to consider the therapist’s personality and whether or not it meshes with your own before beginning treatment. 

BetterHelp’s practices

BetterHelp’s practices include encrypting user data, distributing servers across multiple locations, and obtaining certifications for the platform. In addition, therapists working for BetterHelp follow all requirements of their governing boards and state laws. 

Therapist vetting and quality safeguards

BetterHelp holds its therapists to high standards. First and foremost, they only hire licensed and credentialed therapists. They are cross-referenced and given background checks and are also subjected to periodic checks by the NPDB. Before hiring, each practitioner is also required to complete a case study graded by a licensed clinician. 

What to look for in any therapist

Working with a therapist, it is important that you feel safe. If, despite BetterHelp’s practices, you do not feel comfortable with a particular therapist, feel that there are red flags, or simply don’t feel that you are a good fit, switching therapists is easy–with or without explanation. 

What kind of mental health challenges do BetterHelp therapists treat?

BetterHelp therapists treat many of the same conditions addressed by traditional in-person therapy providers, depending on their certification and licensure. These might include the following: 

• Anxiety and stress disorders, such as generalized and social anxiety
• Depression and mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder
• Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Grief and loss
• Self-esteem and identity concerns
• Eating disorders (mild to moderate cases like emotional eating and body image challenges)
• Obsessive-compulsive tendencies (mild OCD symptoms)
• Major life transitions and adjustment challenges
• LGBTQIA+ related concerns (including identity, discrimination, and coming out)
• Relationship challenges 

Does BetterHelp work?

Research repeatedly suggests that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including CBT delivered by BetterHelp, can be as effective as in-person treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including depression and anxiety. (CBT is the most common method used in both online and traditional therapy.) 

Many BetterHelp users have positive experiences working with the platform, indicating that they find it helpful in improving their mental health. However, the effectiveness of any type of therapy relies largely on the individual and the therapeutic alliance between the client and counselor. 

What are the benefits of online therapy?

Online therapy offers several key benefits to individuals seeking mental health care. It allows individuals to connect with therapists regardless of their location, without the need to commute to and from a physical office. This feature can be particularly beneficial for people living in remote or underserved areas, as well as those with physical disabilities or illnesses. 

In addition, online platforms typically offer users more flexible scheduling options, including weekends and evenings. Additionally, attending therapy sessions from home in a more familiar, relaxed atmosphere may help people overcome any concerns about stigma and feel more comfortable opening up to their therapist. 

How affordable is BetterHelp?

BetterHelp can be a good option for those who worry about affording therapy. Online therapy through BetterHelp can often be less expensive than in-person treatment without insurance, and the platform is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers. The service also offers financial aid to those who qualify, allowing individuals to pay on a sliding scale depending on their income. 

What is the effectiveness of online therapy?

Research suggests that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered online is as effective as standard, in-person treatment. CBT has traditionally been cited as the “gold standard” for many common mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, helping many people learn to regulate their emotions, communicate more effectively, develop healthier self-esteem, and achieve greater overall well-being. Here are some empirical examples: 

• The Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR Mental Health) indicated that telehealth (via phone or video) is as effective as face-to-face therapy for some less common conditions, including eating disorders and substance use disorder.
• In a Frontiers in Psychology study, psychotherapists working in virtual settings reported strong therapeutic alliances with their clients—a factor contributing significantly to reduced stress and burnout for the therapist and successful treatment outcomes for their clients.
• Another 2023 trial courtesy of Frontiers in Psychiatry found that individuals completing online cognitive behavioral therapy (e-CBT) for depression exhibited significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life.

How can I effectively care for my mental health?

How can I participate actively and develop a strong alliance with my licensed therapist?

Take an active role in therapy and be honest about your feelings and experiences. Engage in self-reflection between sessions and come prepared with questions or specific things you want to address (if applicable). Many professionals who use internet-delivered CBT assign their clients “homework” assignments to complete between sessions that help them apply what they’ve learned in daily life. Be sure to keep up with these assignments to get the most out of the therapeutic process. 

How can I care for my body to care for my mental health?

Research repeatedly shows a bidirectional connection between mental and physical health. Conditions like depression and anxiety disorders are linked to an increased risk of physical ailments like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic pain. Conversely, physical health conditions can also contribute to mental health challenges. Take good care of your body to support your mental health by engaging in plenty of exercise, eating nutritious foods, and getting regular sleep.  

How can I manage my stress between online therapy sessions?

Once you begin therapy, it may become easier to recognize the things that cause you stress, allowing you to cope with them proactively as they arise in everyday life. Mindfulness activities, such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises, can be beneficial. Journaling and spending time in nature can also be effective ways to reduce stress while cultivating mindfulness and self-reflection.

What is the importance of doing things that nourish and bring me joy?

How you spend your time outside of therapy can have a significant impact on your mental health. Spend time with people who make you feel supported and positive. Engage in a favorite hobby or creative project. Many find it beneficial for their mental health to learn a new skill, take some classes, or attend continuing education workshops and events.

How can I begin online therapy sessions with a licensed therapist from BetterHelp?

Starting the whole process is simple. Access therapy by creating an account through the BetterHelp website or mobile app. Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive a questionnaire about your mental health history, your needs, and your preferences for therapy. Be sure to take your time and give your answers some thought, because they’ll influence which therapist the platform will assign to you. (However, switching therapists is easy if you're not satisfied with the initial match.) 

Once you’ve matched with a therapist via an online therapy format such as BetterHelp, you’ll set your preferred method of communication. Typically, virtual therapy is conducted via live video sessions, but there are other therapy formats available. For instance, you may also choose to communicate via phone calls or online chat. At this point, users typically coordinate dates and times for the initial session, ensuring that therapist availability aligns with client availability. The first session is usually an intake session, during which the therapist introduces themselves, explains their approach, and discusses what to expect from therapy. They'll also ask about your mental health needs and goals for treatment. You can continue to communicate with your therapist through in-app messaging between sessions and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.