Is BetterHelp Actually Legit For Mental Health Therapy?
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In recent years, the reach and popularity of online therapy have grown considerably in the United States and around the world. While online therapy platforms have extended access to therapy to millions of people, some people understandably want to know if platforms like BetterHelp are legitimate. Keep reading to learn more about research on online therapy services, the requirements to become a BetterHelp therapist, and the facts about BetterHelp therapy options.
Licensure requirements to become a BetterHelp therapist
In addition, some BetterHelp therapists have a doctoral degree in psychology, such as a PsyD. This type of degree typically requires four to five additional years of study after earning a bachelor’s degree.
30,000+ therapists with diverse specialties
Is BetterHelp actually legit? Experience requirements
BetterHelp also requires that all therapists have at least three years of therapeutic experience.
They have worked with:
- Adults
- Teens
- Couples
- Groups
Therapists who require clinical supervision to provide mental health services are not eligible to serve BetterHelp clients.
Research on the effectiveness of online therapy services vs. in-person therapy
Over the last 10 to 15 years, many researchers have investigated the effectiveness of online therapy for various mental health conditions. A 2018 study published in the journal JMIR mHealth and uHealth looked specifically at the effectiveness of online therapy for BetterHelp users. The researchers collected data from 318 active users of BetterHelp and found that the severity of depression symptoms was significantly reduced, with even greater improvement for individuals with no prior experience with psychotherapy.
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchNumerous other studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of online therapy in general. One 2020 study showed that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was more effective in treating depression than traditional in-person therapy.
Depression isn’t the only mental health disorder that can be treated with online therapy. A 2017 literature review reported that online therapy could effectively address a variety of mental health conditions, including
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Phobias
- Substance use disorder
- Adjustment disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
BetterHelp therapy options for mental health
BetterHelp’s communication options have been confirmed as legitimate by users all across the country. Individuals in need of support can participate in:
- Audio
- Live chat
- Video
The platform also allows people to reach out to their therapists anytime through in-app messaging, and their therapists will generally respond when they are able. This feature allows people to reach out for support when they’re experiencing stress or other mental health challenges between therapy sessions.
Takeaway
How can users tell if BetterHelp is legit?
While online platforms cannot guarantee results, research shows that BetterHelp can improve mental health. One study found that three months of therapy with BetterHelp led to significant reductions in symptoms of depression, with more marked improvement in people who had no prior therapy experience.
How much does it cost to work with a BetterHelp therapist?
Sessions at BetterHelp cost between $70 and $100 per week, and financial aid may be available depending on your income. The cost can vary depending on your location, preferences, and therapist availability. In general, online therapy tends to be more affordable than in-person therapy without insurance, and online therapists use many of the evidence-based practices used in traditional therapy.
Is BetterHelp actually legit in terms of mental health professionals?
All of the therapists at BetterHelp are fully licensed. These include licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed psychologists, among other licensed professionals in the mental health field. BetterHelp does not permit interns or anyone requiring supervision to provide therapy sessions. The licensed therapists at BetterHelp can employ traditional therapy practices supported by peer-reviewed research.
How does online therapy compare to in-person therapy services?
Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person mental health care for numerous disorders. While some people prefer to attend sessions in person, the evidence base for online therapy has grown significantly in recent years.
Is BetterHelp trustworthy?
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that offers virtual mental health care services as an alternative to traditional in-person therapy. Many people ask, “Is BetterHelp legit?” While BetterHelp has limitations, such as not being able to prescribe medication or help with a mental health crisis like active psychosis, its therapists are licensed and undergo a rigorous application process before being approved to work with clients.
If you’re ready to start your mental health journey and focus on your own mental health, in-person therapy sessions and quality online therapy services may both be valid options. If you choose to seek therapy through BetterHelp, keep in mind that online sessions can be just as effective as in-person sessions. In addition, many popular modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, are available both online and in person.
What is the success rate of BetterHelp?
According to data provided by BetterHelp, 72% of clients experienced a reduction in mental health symptoms. In addition, BetterHelp claims that 69% achieved reliable improvement, and 62% achieved symptom remission.
What happens when you quit BetterHelp?
In general, when you cancel your BetterHelp subscription, you can expect to receive a confirmation email and an invitation to reactivate your account later. If you’ve requested a refund, the customer service team should get back to you within a few days.
How many sessions a week can you do on BetterHelp?
Most BetterHelp users attend one session per week. However, you can speak with your therapist match to determine the best plan for you. You may be able to schedule extra phone calls or live video sessions with the same therapist throughout the week. You may also be able to virtually attend group sessions.
What is the best online therapy service?
The best online therapy service may vary from person to person, depending on each individual’s needs and preferences. However, it can be important to keep in mind that one of the most important factors for successful therapy is a strong therapeutic bond with your therapist. BetterHelp allows you to change therapists as needed until you find the right therapist.
Does BetterHelp actually have licensed therapists?
BetterHelp has a large pool of therapy providers who offer online therapy. Each BetterHelp therapist must have a degree in their field, at least three years of experience, at least 1,000 hours of hands-on experience, and a license to practice in their state. Each qualified therapist must also be verified through BetterHelp’s application process before they can provide online counseling services. Through BetterHelp, you might connect with a marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, or a licensed clinical social worker.
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