Find A Therapist: Exploring Online Therapy With BetterHelp Canada
As discussions around mental health become more relevant to our day-to-day lives, individuals may consider finding support from a qualified therapist. In this article, we will explore the benefits of maintaining mental health through online therapyservices. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp can connect individuals with qualified mental health professionals for quality care. Read on to learn more about BetterHelp’s structure, services, and key features, and how an online counseling platform can serve as a practical alternative to traditional therapy for a variety of mental health concerns.
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The importance of mental health
Even though discussions around mental health have become more common, it is still an area that many individuals may unintentionally overlook. Public awareness has increased through media coverage, workplace programs, and educational initiatives, but awareness does not always lead to action.
Some may believe that only severe symptoms require attention, which can result in early warning signs such as ongoing fatigue, irritability, or difficulty concentrating being ignored. Others might view these difficulties as temporary stress that will resolve naturally, which can delay intervention and allow problems to become more difficult to address over time.
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Social and cultural factors may also influence this hesitation. Even in environments that promote mental health support, individuals may be reluctant to seek help due to concerns about discretion, fear of judgment, or uncertainty about where to start. Additionally, a lack of immediate physical symptoms can make it easier to focus on other priorities, such as work or family obligations, while neglecting emotional well-being.
Understanding that mental health care is not limited to crisis situations can be important. Ongoing maintenance, through regular self-assessment, stress management, and early use of mental health services, can play a significant role in preserving long-term mental well-being.
When emotional challenges go unaddressed, they can progress to persistent anxiety, depression, or feelings of disconnection, which may impair productivity, strain relationships, and affect decision-making.
Physically, unresolved emotional stress can contribute to poor sleep, elevated stress hormones, fatigue, and reduced immune function. Research has linked chronic stress and emotional dysregulation with increased inflammation, cardiovascular problems, and other health concerns that impact both physical and mental health care outcomes.
Understanding mental health challenges and conditions
Based on national survey data, experts suggest the following mental health conditions are common amongst Canadians:
- Depression – In 2022, 7.6% of Canadians aged 15 and older met diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode.
- Generalized anxiety disorder – Prevalence doubled from 2.6% in 2012 to 5.2% in 2022 among Canadians.
- Mood and anxiety disorders (combined) – Overall, mood disorders affected about 9.6%, and anxiety disorders impacted about 10.4% of Canadians aged 12 and up, according to 2021 data.
Not all mental health challenges qualify as diagnosable conditions. Many individuals may experience chronic stress, conflicts in relationships, or difficulty managing life transitions.
While these common challenges may not meet diagnostic criteria, if left unaddressed, they can worsen, potentially developing into full-blown conditions like clinical anxiety or depression. This may highlight the importance of seeking timely mental health support. Users are typically matched with the right therapist for their needs based on their answers to a brief questionnaire, and they can switch therapists at any time. While immediate support is not offered and should be pursued in person if needed, individuals can schedule therapy sessions via phone calls, video sessions, or online chat.
What are the benefits of BetterHelp?
BetterHelp operates as an online platform that expands the availability of therapy. Their objective is to make mental health services more inclusive and convenient, especially for those unable to attend in-person therapy due to time, cost, or location constraints.
Therapy that fits your life
Flexible, accessible, and built around you
- ✓Transparent pricingNo hidden fees, know what you’ll pay upfront
- ✓Fast matchingYou can get matched in as little as 48 hours
- ✓In-App SchedulingMessage, chat, or schedule live video
- ✓Easy to switchChange therapists anytime until you find the right fit
- ✓Tailored supportCredentialed professionals with diverse specialties
Pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.
The platform provides therapy services tailored to a range of clients, including individuals, couples, and teens. This broad approach allows the platform to address diverse mental health needs, offering specialized support whether someone is managing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or adolescent concerns. BetterHelp’s online therapy service subscription plans can be a convenient way to receive ongoing support in a safe space.
Other key features of BetterHelp include:
- Compassionate care: Services for individuals, couples, and teens
- Fully online: No commuting, no waiting rooms
- Affordability: BetterHelp’s flexible pricing model may lower the cost barrier compared to traditional hourly rates for those without insurance.
- Large network: Connections to thousands of BetterHelp therapists
- Fast matching: Potential to be paired with a credentialed therapist within 48 hours
- Flexibility: Sessions from anywhere; ability to switch therapists
one or more self care & clinical tools
Types of qualified professionals on BetterHelp
BetterHelp’s qualified therapists go through a thorough vetting process to ensure they are qualified to provide therapy for concerns like adult depression, anxiety disorders, high levels of stress, relationship challenges, and more. Each provider who works with BetterHelp has a degree in their field, at least three years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience, and is qualified to practice in their respective location. They also complete a case study graded by a qualified clinician as part of the application process.
The providers on the BetterHelp platform have titles like the following:
- Professional counselors
- Clinical social workers
- Marriage and family therapists
- Mental health counselors
- Psychologists
Therapy approaches and modalities
Like in-person therapists, the providers who work on the BetterHelp platform use a variety of therapeutic approaches to help their clients meet their mental health goals, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and humanistic therapy. However, BetterHelp therapists do not prescribe medication, so if you’re looking for medication management services, it’s recommended to contact a psychiatrist in your local area.
What can online therapy help with?
Through methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), online therapy can address common mental health challenges and conditions including anxiety and depression. CBT typically offers structured tools for thought reframing, coping strategies, and emotional regulation.
Additional areas where online therapy may help include:
- Relationship conflicts
- Adjustment to life transitions (e.g., career change, grief, identity development)
- Self-esteem and stress management
- Family dynamics or parenting concerns
Find a therapist who meets your needs
The therapy process may be more effective when clients work with therapists suited to their specific challenges. For instance:
- Someone with trauma-related symptoms may benefit from a therapist experienced in trauma-informed care.
- A couple navigating communication breakdowns may find value in a therapist skilled in relationship dynamics.
- Having the ability to align a therapist’s expertise with one’s needs can enhance treatment outcomes.
Due to having a wider pool of qualified therapists to choose from, BetterHelp aims to match clients with specialized providers who can meet their specific needs.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Affordability and insurance limitations
BetterHelp may offer lower costs than in-person therapy, due to their pricing model. For those with limited insurance coverage for mental health, BetterHelp may provide cost-effective options. For those with an insurance provider that offers insurers that offer partial reimbursement, online therapy may fill gaps left by incomplete financial aid or exclusive provider networks.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance? Some BetterHelp therapists may accept insurance, and the platform is currently working with certain insurance carriers to join their networks. BetterHelp may also offer financial aid or financial assistance to those who qualify and pay out of pocket for their online therapy subscriptions.
Ability to message your therapist
BetterHelp includes an in-app messaging feature, allowing clients to send updates or reflections at any time. This feature supports ongoing engagement and preparation for upcoming sessions. It also enables clients to express difficult thoughts in writing and revisit prior conversations for reflection. Your therapist will respond whenever they are able.
More flexible mental health care
BetterHelp’s online model provides vital connections to therapy for individuals in remote regions, with mobility constraints, or caregiving responsibilities. Online therapy platforms like this one can accommodate various schedules and environments, making mental health services more adaptable.
What service options does BetterHelp offer?
BetterHelp provides therapy and counseling tailored to different groups, including:
- Individuals: Support for specific concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression
- Couples: Assistance with communication, conflict resolution, and relationship maintenance
- Teens: Guidance for developmental, social, academic, or family-related challenges
How can I find a therapist with BetterHelp?
Can you message your therapist on BetterHelp?
The BetterHelp app allows clients to send in-app messages to their therapist between sessions. This supports a continuous connection and helps clients share insights or prepare for upcoming sessions.
Comparing BetterHelp to traditional in-person therapy
Both online therapies and in-person options can provide effective care, and online and in-person therapists tend to use the same modalities to support clients. However, an online therapy platform can add convenience and customizability to the therapeutic process, potentially making it easier to receive ongoing support, even without in-person interaction.
How online therapy can help
Studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as traditional therapy for individuals and couples, particularly when therapeutic rapport is maintained and interventions are evidence-based.
More benefits of online therapy
Other potential benefits of online therapy include:
- Elimination of commute time
- Transparent pricing
- Connections to specialized therapists not available locally
- Easier scheduling and re-scheduling of sessions
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchGetting started: Your first session with a qualified therapist
During your first session, your qualified therapist will likely introduce themselves and talk about their approach to the therapy process. They may ask you questions about the mental health concerns that brought you to therapy as well. If you’re having a live session with an online therapist, you may be able to choose between a video call, phone call, or online chat for your appointment, depending on your personal preferences.
Takeaway
Is BetterHelp available in Canada?
Even though BetterHelp is based in the United States, BetterHelp is a global platform that serves people from various countries. BetterHelp is now available to people outside of the United States, such as those living in Canada. This type of platform can be a valuable resource for those who are seeking mental health support but are not able to or are not interested in utilizing traditional in-person therapy services. Online therapy, such as that offered by BetterHelp Canada, has been proven to be as effective as in-person therapy.
How much does BetterHelp cost in Canada?
In Canada, BetterHelp costs $85 to $110 CAD per week, billed weekly or every four weeks, to meet with experienced therapists or professional counselors. Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. This price is comparable to other online therapy platforms and can be more affordable than traditional in-person counseling sessions without health insurance.
You might explore a BetterHelp Canada review or two to learn more and see what people are saying about this service. If you decide to move forward, the sign-up process is simple, allowing you to request a female therapist, a therapist of color, or another provider who suits your needs. You can also request a different therapist at any time for no additional cost.
Is therapy covered by Canadian insurance?
Therapy can be covered by private insurance in Canada, but the public healthcare plan typically only covers medical costs.
Is BetterHelp effective for online therapy?
In 2024, 72% of BetterHelp clients experienced a reduction in symptoms. This success rate is considered significant for any therapy modality. Furthermore, online therapy has been proven to be just as effective as in-person therapy for treating issues with mental health. According to Forbes, a number of studies have proven the effectiveness of online therapy. For instance, one study found that clients who attended online versus in-person therapy had the same initial levels of effectiveness, but that three months after treatment, the people who had attended online therapy had fewer symptoms and the people who had attended in-person therapy’s symptoms worsened.
Do Canadians have to pay for therapy?
Canadians typically have to pay for therapy, as public insurance does not cover therapy costs with independent therapists. Public insurance covers medical costs only. However, this includes covering psychiatrists for people with mental health diagnoses, and the public health system also offers various free programs.
How does online therapy work with BetterHelp in Canada?
Online therapy with BetterHelp works by having you fill out a questionnaire and then it matches you with a therapist. From there, you will pay a monthly subscription cost, and you will have weekly online sessions with your therapist.
Can I find a licensed Canadian therapist on BetterHelp?
BetterHelp matches Canadian clients with licensed Canadian therapists.
Is BetterHelp suitable for anxiety and depression treatment?
As with therapists elsewhere, therapists on BetterHelp are trained to treat anxiety and depression in their clients. BetterHelp therapists use various therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy to treat mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, along with a number of other mental health concerns.
Does BetterHelp offer couples therapy in Canada?
Yes, BetterHelp offers couples therapy in Canada. When you fill out the online questionnaire, you can indicate what kind of therapy you are looking for. When you indicate that you are seeking couples therapy, you will be redirected to their sister site, ReGain. You and your partner can meet with a therapist who specializes in relationship issues. Your therapist will support you as you practice communication skills and conflict resolution skills, helping to rebuild intimacy and understanding.
How do I switch therapists or cancel BetterHelp in Canada?
You can switch therapists any time on BetterHelp. If you want to switch therapists on BetterHelp Canada, you can log on to your account and hit “My Therapist” or “Change Counselor,” and from there you can request a new therapist. To cancel BetterHelp, go to “Settings” and click “Quit Counseling” or “Change Plan/Quit Counseling.”
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