How Long Are BetterHelp Sessions? Duration, Format, And What To Expect

BetterHelp therapy sessions typically last between 30 and 45 minutes, though you and your therapist may be able to adjust this if you'd like. This length is common for online therapy and can apply across different session formats, including video, phone, and live chat. Below, explore how session length works, what your subscription includes, and how to make the most of your time in therapy.

How long are BetterHelp sessions?

BetterHelp sessions typically last 30 to 45 minutes, which is a common length for online therapy. This timeframe can allow enough space for meaningful conversation while remaining flexible enough to fit into daily life. Traditional in-person therapy sessions often run a bit longer, usually between 45 and 60 minutes, although the difference in format doesn't necessarily reflect a difference in the quality of care.

Can you adjust your session length?

If you'd like to shorten or lengthen your sessions, one option is to communicate your needs directly with your therapist. If they agree, you can work together to establish a schedule that fits both of you. If your therapist isn't able to accommodate your request, you have the option to switch therapists at any time for any reason.

How session format may affect duration

The 30- to 45-minute standard generally applies across the different ways you can connect with your therapist. Whether you choose a video call, a phone session, or a live chat session, the time guidelines tend to remain the same. Live chat sessions may feel different in pacing, since typing can move at a different rhythm than speaking, but they typically follow the same general timeframe. This consistency can make it easier to plan your week, no matter which format you prefer.

How many sessions can you have per week?

BetterHelp subscriptions usually include one live session per week, along with in-app messaging in between (though it may take your therapist some time to respond, depending on their availability). If you'd like more sessions per week, you can reach out to your therapist. If they're able to accommodate this request, BetterHelp can adjust your monthly subscription rate accordingly.

When using insurance, certain BetterHelp features may be limited or unavailable, including chat-based sessions, groups/classes, and select self-help tools.

Understanding BetterHelp subscription options

Standard BetterHelp subscriptions may include once-a-week live sessions, optional group sessions or "groupinars," and in-app messaging for $280 to $400 per month. Subscription pricing can be based on factors such as:

• Your location
• Referral source
• Preferences
• Therapist availability
• Any applicable discounts or promotionsAdditionally, some providers on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain health plans in select states — co-pays average about $23/session for eligible members. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability, and you can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site.

Making the most of your session time

Because a typical BetterHelp session length falls between 30 and 45 minutes, a little preparation can help you get the most from your time. It may help to jot down what you'd like to focus on before your session, so you can move into the conversation with a clear sense of direction. One of the benefits of a multimodal platform is that support can extend beyond your live sessions, so the time you spend together can build on the work you're doing throughout the week.

Session formats available on BetterHelp

One of the benefits of online therapy is that you can choose the communication style that suits you, and you're not locked into a single format each week. Here are the ways you may connect with your therapist:

• Video sessions for face-to-face conversation
• Phone sessions when you prefer to talk without video
• Live chat sessions for real-time messaging
• In-app messaging between sessions
• Online journaling with optional prompts from your therapist

Using messaging between sessions

In-app messaging is included with your subscription and can extend support beyond your live sessions. You can use in-app messaging whenever you have a question or something to note, and your therapist will generally respond as soon as they're able. Using this feature can be a practical way to maximize the value of your subscription and stay connected between appointments.

When using insurance, certain BetterHelp features may be limited or unavailable, including chat-based sessions, groups/classes, and select self-help tools.

How long does it take to see progress in therapy?

Whether you use online therapy or in-person counseling, your progress may depend on factors like treatment adherence and the therapeutic relationship with your counselor. Progress can look different for everyone, though research offers some encouraging insight.

How online therapy with BetterHelp can support your well-being

The flexibility of online therapy can make it easier to fit care into real life. You may attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you, choose the session format that feels right for a given week, and reach out through in-app messaging when something comes up between appointments. This adaptability can help therapy feel less like one more thing to manage and more like a steady source of support. When you're ready, you can get started and be matched with a licensed therapist who fits your needs.

A large and growing body of research supports the use of online therapy as an alternative to in-person care. For example, a 2022 meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found that online and in-person therapy typically produce the same client outcomes.

BetterHelp can pair users with suitable therapists to set them up for success. In 2024, 93% of user preferences were met during the matching process.

BetterHelp pricing and financial options

BetterHelp costs may range between $280 and $400 per month, depending on factors like your payment plan and financial aid. In select states, some providers on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain health plans — co-pays average about $23/session for eligible members. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability, and you can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. States where insurance coverage may be available include VA, DC, MD, FL, NY, AR, IN, KY, TX, PA, IL, NC, MT, MI, CO, OK, CT, MO, NV, OH, NJ, TN, AZ, MA, NE, DE, WV, VT, NH, NM, AL, UT, and GA.

Don't see your state? We are currently working with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. In the meantime, our flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network.

BetterHelp also accepts HSA/FSA cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers. Financial assistance in the form of sliding-scale discounts may also be available to non-insured members who qualify, and you can apply during the intake process by selecting the option that indicates you can't afford therapy.

Getting started with BetterHelp

To begin, you can register on the BetterHelp website or app and complete an onboarding questionnaire about your needs, preferences, symptoms, and background. Using your answers, BetterHelp draws from a network of more than 30,000 licensed mental health professionals to find a match, often in as little as 48 hours after signing up.

Because a strong therapeutic alliance can be essential for success, you're free to switch therapists at any time for any reason and at no additional cost if you don't feel connected to your initial match. It may help to fill out your questionnaire as honestly and thoroughly as possible, and to review your therapist's profile to learn about their licensing, credentials, and experience. When you're ready, you can take the first step toward support that fits your life.