How Are BetterHelp Therapists Verified?
BetterHelp therapists are verified by a team that conducts a thorough investigation into the qualifications of each professional. The team verifies that all educational requirements have been fulfilled from an accredited institution and that all candidates have a current state license and at least three years of clinical experience. This process ensures that every client meets with a mental health professional who has not only sufficient training but also enough experience to help people navigate various mental health challenges.
Keep reading to learn more about BetterHelp therapists and how they are verified.
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How are BetterHelp therapists verified?
When clients are matched with a therapist, they can view the person’s profile and state licensing number. Clients can also view therapist profiles prior to the matching process.
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How are BetterHelp therapists verified in an ongoing way?
BetterHelp therapists must undergo periodic checks via the NPDB (National Practitioner Data Bank) registry. Also, therapists receive client feedback via a multi-dimensional rating system, which helps to ensure high-quality mental health services and continuous improvement.
Also, to remain licensed in their state, most therapists must complete a certain number of continuing education credits, which helps to keep them current on the latest evidence-based practices in the field.
Do the mental health professionals at BetterHelp have to pass a test?
Qualified therapist candidates must pass a case study that is evaluated by a licensed mental health professional. This step ensures that each client receives support from a qualified mental health professional with sufficient clinical experience.
What types of credentials do BetterHelp therapists have?
BetterHelp’s therapists include the following mental health professionals:
- Licensed professional counselors (LPCs)
- Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs)
- Marriage and family therapists (MFTs)
- Licensed psychologists
Most of these professionals must have at least a master’s degree, but a clinical psychologist typically has to have a doctorate. All of these mental health professionals are trained in evidence-based mental health care regardless of their specific title.
Can clients see the credentials of BetterHelp’s mental health professionals?
BetterHelp clients can review a therapist’s credentials after BetterHelp staff verify all requirements. Each licensed therapist has an online profile listing their title, education level, and approach to therapy.
How many years of experience do BetterHelp therapists have?
Therapists are required to have at least three years of clinical experience to begin working with BetterHelp. However, most therapists exceed this minimum requirement. Data shows that approximately 37% of therapists have at least 15 years of experience. Clients can always change therapists at any time for no additional cost, which means they can opt for someone with more experience or a specific type of therapeutic experience if they prefer.
Does BetterHelp offer financial aid?
Sometimes, BetterHelp may offer need-based financial aid. However, online therapy sessions with BetterHelp can be more affordable than in-person therapy without insurance coverage.
How do online therapy platforms compare to in-person therapy?
BetterHelp has demonstrated high client satisfaction. Clients typically have more flexibility with online therapy platforms than they do with traditional in-person therapy. They can communicate with an online therapist through the following methods:
- Audio
- Video sessions
- Live chat
- In-app messaging
Online therapy platforms also typically offer greater therapist availability than in-person therapy does. Clients can often meet with therapists outside of traditional work hours.
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Find your matchIs there evidence showing that online therapy platforms are just as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated online therapy to be effective for a variety of mental health conditions. One systematic review and meta-analysis found that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was more effective than in-person therapy for symptoms of depression. Other studies have found online therapy to be effective for the following disorders:
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Substance use disorder
Takeaway
Does BetterHelp actually have licensed therapists?
Yes. BetterHelp has over 30,000 therapists, all of whom are licensed to practice therapy in their states. This ensures you’re in good hands when you start therapy via our online platform. Some of our providers are also licensed marriage counselors, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers. Multiple therapists pursue continual education classes to keep current on the latest trends in psychology.
How to tell if your therapist is legit?
Before starting individual therapy, you can ask to see a copy of the therapist’s license or look up their credentials online. There are many good therapists available who can assist you with mental health conditions or challenges such as low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and more. To ensure a good match, you can try a few live sessions with the therapist, and you have the ability to switch therapists at any time.
How does BetterHelp match you with a therapist?
BetterHelp’s matching process begins with a short questionnaire where clients express certain preferences for therapy, including the qualities of a good therapist, specific therapy goals they have, and mental health symptoms. Clients are free to bypass this process if they wish and browse the many therapists available on the platform until they find one they want to work with. If the first therapist you work with doesn’t end up being a good fit, you can switch your therapist anytime.
Does BetterHelp hire unlicensed therapists?
No. When you begin sessions with a new therapist on the BetterHelp platform, you can rest assured you’re meeting with a licensed clinician.
What is the success rate of BetterHelp?
Over 70% of people who use BetterHelp therapy services experience symptom reduction, and over 80% would recommend their therapist to others.
Can BetterHelp therapists diagnose?
Therapists on the BetterHelp platform may be licensed to diagnose mental health conditions, but the BetterHelp platform does not allow diagnosis. Instead, therapists focus on applying therapeutic techniques as part of the therapy process to enhance the individual’s quality of life.
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