How Much Is BetterHelp? Understanding Pricing

With its flexible subscription model, BetterHelp typically costs $70 to $100 per week, with monthly costs ranging from $280 to $400. This subscription includes one live therapy session per week (via video, audio, or chat), messaging capabilities with your therapist, and access to journaling tools and group webinars. Prices can vary based on factors such as your location, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable discounts or promotions. This article outlines BetterHelp's pricing in more detail, how its subscription model works, and what options may help make therapy more affordable.

How much does BetterHelp cost per week and month?

BetterHelp prices can vary based on several factors. If you're considering BetterHelp, review the following breakdown to see what your potential monthly and weekly cost may be:

• Standard subscription: $280 to $400 per month
• Weekly breakdown: $70 to $100 per week

What affects BetterHelp pricing?

Several factors can influence the cost of your BetterHelp subscription. Geographic location and therapist availability can play a role, as can your preferences and referral source. Any applicable discounts or promotions can also affect your final price.

Weekly vs. monthly billing options

BetterHelp offers flexibility in how you're billed for your subscription. You can choose to be charged weekly or every four weeks, depending on what works best for your budget. Weekly billing can make payments feel more manageable by spreading costs out, while monthly billing may be convenient for those who prefer fewer transactions.

What's included in a BetterHelp subscription

A BetterHelp subscription includes more than just a weekly therapy session; you also get:

• Fast matching – most users get matched within 24-48 hours
• Transparent pricing – no hidden fees, know what you'll pay upfront
• Therapy sessions your way – video, voice, or chat
• Message anytime – your therapist will respond when they can
• Easy to switch – change therapists anytime until you find the right fit

Live therapy sessions

A monthly subscription comes with one live therapy session per week, which you can attend through video chat, audio call, or messaging session—sessions receive an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 1.7 million client ratings. You have the flexibility to choose the format that feels most comfortable for you. In some cases, you may be able to arrange an extra session with your therapist for an additional fee.

Messaging and extra features

Beyond live sessions, you can communicate with your therapist via in-app messaging. You can message your therapist at any time, and they will respond when they can. With a subscription, you'll also have access to tools and resources like worksheets, a journaling space, and educational materials exploring topics like why you might need reassurance in relationships to support your mental health journey. You'll also have the option to attend live group webinars with your subscription.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance, FSA, or HSA?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through 125+ insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members’ average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see our detailed guide on BetterHelp insurance coverage.

BetterHelp also accepts HSA/FSA cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers.

Does BetterHelp offer financial aid or discounts?

BetterHelp may offer financial aid to some subscribers using non-insured pricing. You can apply for financial aid during the BetterHelp signup process by answering a few questions about your household finances.

How to apply for financial aid

During the signup process, you'll have the opportunity to apply for financial assistance. The application asks about your income, employment status, and any financial hardship you may be experiencing. BetterHelp aims to provide a decision within 2-3 business days after you submit your application, though some applicants may receive a response sooner.

Student and promotional discounts

BetterHelp may offer promotional discounts from time to time, which can help reduce the cost of your subscription. While specific student discount programs may vary, the financial aid application is available to anyone who qualifies based on their financial situation, including students experiencing financial hardship. Checking the platform during signup can help you identify any current promotions that may apply to your subscription.

Is BetterHelp free?

No, BetterHelp is not a free service. It has a flexible subscription model with weekly or monthly payments. If cost is a concern, applying for financial assistance during signup may help make therapy more accessible. When you're ready to explore your options, you can get started with BetterHelp to see what pricing may look like for your situation.

How BetterHelp pricing compares to traditional therapy

Online therapy can offer a flexible and convenient form of mental health treatment. Unlike with in-person sessions, online sessions can be attended from almost anywhere with an internet connection. This can be helpful for individuals who have difficulty leaving the house due to a mental or physical health concern, or those who face logistical barriers like lack of transportation.

BetterHelp may be more affordable than traditional therapy sessions, which can range from $100 to $200 or more per session. With BetterHelp, you pay $70 to $100 per week, which includes not just your live session but also in-app messaging between sessions. For those comparing subscription pricing with other therapy costs, this pricing structure may offer meaningful savings while still providing access to licensed professionals.

How BetterHelp subscriptions work

If you sign up for a standard BetterHelp subscription, you can meet with your therapist online once weekly via live sessions, audio, or video using the desktop or mobile app. Payments are due weekly or at the beginning of each month, and you may pay using:

• A credit or debit card
• PayPal
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• FSA/HSA cards

Switching therapists at no extra cost

BetterHelp allows users to switch therapists at any time free of charge, which can help ensure quality of ongoing care and more positive treatment outcomes. As you participate in online sessions, you may find that you and your first therapist aren't the right match. If this happens, you can change therapists without any additional cost.

How to make the most of your BetterHelp subscription

Utilizing BetterHelp's tools can help you ensure you're getting the most value from your membership. In-app messaging is one feature that can be useful for individuals who have questions or thoughts they'd like to share between sessions, such as exploring how to know if you like someone or navigating daily stressors. When you are matched with a provider, you will be placed in a chat room where you can message them anytime. Your therapist will then get back to you when they can.

The ability to change therapists anytime can also enhance your experience by helping you find a match that fits your needs and preferences. Additionally, consider downloading and exploring the BetterHelp app on your phone, tablet, or other mobile device. With the app, it may be easier to participate in video chat, voice call, or messaging sessions when you're on the go. You can also ask your therapist to help you utilize worksheets, informational materials, and support groups that may enhance your experience.

Flexibility and effectiveness of online therapy

Online therapy provides a level of flexibility that may make it more convenient for many individuals. Sessions can reach people who may be prevented from commuting to an office due to logistical concerns, mental health challenges, or their current physical health status. Additionally, participants may have an easier time finding a therapist whose background aligns with their own, as BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 licensed therapists worldwide.

Online therapy may be an effective option for many people, depending on their needs and the type of support they are seeking. A recent meta-analysis found that online therapy by video produced similar treatment outcomes to in-person therapy.