Is BetterHelp Covered By Insurance?
Online therapy has grown significantly in recent years, and with that growth, many people have been wondering if online therapy platforms like BetterHelp accept insurance. The insurance landscape is changing, and BetterHelp is working to join select insurance networks so that more people can receive coverage for evidence-based mental health care online. This article will discuss BetterHelp’s services, insurance coverage, and options to receive affordable, evidence-based care from home.
BetterHelp currently accepts HSA/FSA cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers. Get started today.
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Is BetterHelp covered by insurance plans?
Mental health options for people without insurance coverage
People who don’t have health insurance that covers online therapy may be able to get coverage for traditional therapy in some cases. Sometimes, insurance covers traditional in-person therapy that is considered medically necessary.
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For those who don’t have insurance coverage, the cost of online therapy by BetterHelp is often more affordable than in-person therapy without covered health insurance plans. BetterHelp’s services tend to cost between $70 and $100 per week, billed as a monthly subscription. Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Some people may qualify by applying for need-based financial aid that can reduce barriers to receiving evidence-based care from a licensed online therapist.
Check your HSA plan
BetterHelp currently accepts HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Account) cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA and FSA providers. Call your provider for more information.
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BetterHelp communication options
Regardless of whether individuals have insurance coverage, the communication options with BetterHelp remain the same. Anyone can connect with a fully licensed therapist via audio, video, live chat, or a combination of these methods. These communication methods eliminate the cost of commuting to a therapist’s office because they can be accessed from a person’s home.
Support Between Sessions
In addition, BetterHelp users can contact their therapists at any time between therapy sessions through in-app messaging, and their therapists will typically respond when they are able. This option allows for comprehensive support throughout the week.
BetterHelp members can also take advantage of weekly group meetups (attending live or viewing a recorded meeting), and use the BetterHelp journaling app to record feelings, track mood, or note observations from therapy sessions.
Is online therapy effective?
In addition to providing flexible communication options, online therapy has strong support in the psychological literature. Numerous peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of remote therapy for various mental health conditions. One review found that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was effective for:
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
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Another study looked specifically at the effectiveness of BetterHelp’s services. Researchers found that three months of therapy with BetterHelp led to significant reductions in symptoms of depression, and first-time therapy attendees saw even greater symptom relief.
Benefits of Online Therapy
In addition to offering effective therapy at potentially affordable costs, online therapy:
- Allows greater access to mental health professionals, especially for those in more rural areas
- Makes it simple to attend sessions, benefiting busy parents and professionals
- Offers a wide range of specialists in a variety of therapeutic approaches and populations
- Allows individuals with disabilities access to mental health professionals from the comfort of their own home
Takeaway
Is BetterHelp covered by insurance plans?
BetterHelp is working to join select insurance networks to expand mental health coverage. Traditional mental health services may be covered in cases where a person has a mental health diagnosis. In addition, some companies may provide partial reimbursement, but each insurance provider may have unique health benefits.
Can health savings accounts be used for online therapy?
In some cases, people may be able to use health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for online therapy, but this may require a mental health diagnosis.
Does BetterHelp offer financial aid for people who don’t have insurance coverage for mental health?
BetterHelp offers financial aid to individuals who qualify. Individuals might consider first asking about new mental health benefits offered by their employer or insurer.
Is BetterHelp cheaper than therapy with insurance?
In general, therapy with insurance is less expensive than BetterHelp, but there may be cases in which BetterHelp is the less expensive option. It may be helpful to contact your insurance provider directly to learn more about out-of-pocket costs for mental health treatment. Most insurance providers can advise you on your options and the process to submit claims over the phone. You may also be able to find low-cost services at community mental health centers or through other local resources.
What's the average cost of BetterHelp?
On average, BetterHelp online therapy subscription services cost $70 to $100 per week, billed every four weeks. Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Depending on your monthly income, you may be eligible for financial aid.
Is BetterHelp actually worth it?
BetterHelp provides online counseling services with a licensed mental health professional to its users. Many people appreciate its flexibility and the option to switch therapists until they find the right mental healthcare professional for their unique needs.
Is there a cheaper alternative to BetterHelp?
There are many options for online therapy. If you have insurance, you might save money on health expenses by checking to see if in-network therapists offer telehealth sessions.
How do I pay less for BetterHelp?
You may find it helpful to reach out to BetterHelp customer service to ask them about your options. In addition, if you’ve wondered, “Is BetterHelp HSA-eligible?” the answer may be yes. If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) through your employer, you may be able to use it toward your BetterHelp subscription.
How many sessions a week can you do on BetterHelp?
Most BetterHelp clients attend one session per week, but you may be able to schedule additional sessions with your therapist after an initial consultation. Extra sessions typically come at an additional cost.
What do I do if I can't afford therapy?
If you’re having a mental health emergency, call the 988 Lifeline or visit the nearest emergency room. If you’re experiencing less pressing difficulties, such as relationship challenges or moderate mental health symptoms, you might ask professionals in your area if they offer sliding-scale fees to lower the cost of therapy.
In addition, online therapy is typically cheaper than in-person therapy without insurance. Depending on your employment status, you could check whether your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to make therapy more affordable. If you’re eligible for Medicaid programs, that could also lower your co-pay. Attending low-cost or free support groups in your area may be a cheaper alternative to therapy.
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