Is Therapy On BetterHelp Effective? The Efficacy Of Online Therapy

What is BetterHelp, and how does it work?

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects users with mental health professionals remotely, providing them with a convenient and flexible form of treatment. The therapeutic techniques utilized by professionals on BetterHelp have been extensively researched, with results suggesting that online therapy is as effective as in-person counseling. 

The intake and matching process

Individuals who wish to participate in online therapy through BetterHelp will start by completing a brief questionnaire. The intake questionnaire asks a variety of questions about user preferences, such as sexual orientation, religious background, and area of focus. Based on their answers, BetterHelp users are matched with a therapist who fits their needs and goals, at which point they can begin scheduling sessions. A BetterHelp subscription includes not only live sessions—involving evidence-backed therapeutic techniques—but also support groups, educational classes, interactive exercises, and other features.

Many people wonder how BetterHelp therapy compares to in-person therapy when it comes to efficacy. Numerous peer-reviewed studies have shown that therapy through BetterHelp can be an effective way to treat a variety of mental health conditions. Online therapy can help address anxiety, depression, OCD, substance misuse, and other mental health conditions. The convenience and flexibility of online therapy sessions may encourage clients to remain actively involved in their therapy, facilitating significant symptom reduction and even remission. 

What a typical BetterHelp experience looks like

Once BetterHelp users have completed the intake process, they may begin scheduling sessions with their therapist. Your first session will typically involve an interview with your therapist, during which they’ll ask you about your mental health background, personal history, and goals for treatment. 

BetterHelp sessions can be participated in through video call, voice call, or in-app messaging, depending on your preferences. During subsequent sessions, you’ll work with your online therapist to address your primary areas of concern, whether through a specific therapeutic modality (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy) or an integrative approach that involves various techniques.

Are BetterHelp therapy sessions effective?

BetterHelp therapy sessions are conducted remotely—a format that has become widely utilized as technology has advanced. A wealth of research has provided valuable insights into the efficacy of this form of care, suggesting that the online therapy experience can provide benefits that are comparable to those of in-person treatment. 

What research and data suggest about the efficacy of online therapy

The results of research on the effectiveness of BetterHelp suggest that the valuable insights and professional advice provided by the platform’s therapists can lead to significant improvements in mental health. In 2024, 72% of BetterHelp clients saw a reduction in their symptoms, and 62% reached symptom remission. In addition, 82% of clients say they are likely to recommend their therapist to others, providing proof of strong therapeutic alliances central to successful therapy journeys.

Factors that influence effectiveness

An individual’s therapy experience can be affected by the following factors: 

• User objectives
• Therapeutic relationship
• Consistency
• Therapist approach
• Session format

Clarity regarding a client’s goals can make it easier for the therapist to develop an effective treatment plan, while uncertainty may negatively impact efficacy. A user’s comfort with their new therapist can also be a key contributor to successful treatment. Research shows that the therapeutic alliance is closely connected to positive mental health outcomes. Additionally, regularly attending sessions can help a participant ensure they’re getting the most out of therapy.

Who BetterHelp can help, and who it might not be right for

BetterHelp can provide support to individuals experiencing a broad range of mental health-related challenges. When participants sign up, they are asked about their mental health history (e.g., depression diagnosis), current physical health (e.g., chronic pain, eating habits), and preferences (e.g., LGBTQ-affirming). This ensures users receive the right form of care for their concerns. However, in some cases—such as severe mental illness—BetterHelp may not be recommended. 

In some situations, seeking therapy through online platforms may be the best option. For example, research suggests that virtual therapy may be a safer option for individuals who are survivors of intimate partner violence. Online therapy may also be a better choice for people with mobility or health issues, or those who don’t have specialized therapists nearby. 

What types of mental health concerns can BetterHelp address?

The professional advice and support provided by online therapists can alleviate a variety of mental health symptoms. BetterHelp may be effective in treating mental health conditions such as:

• anxiety
• depression
• bipolar disorder
• post-traumatic stress disorder
• substance use disorder
• obsessive-compulsive disorder
• eating disorders

In addition, online therapy services can help users address low self-esteem, relationship challenges, stress, life transitions, and other common challenges. However, BetterHelp therapists cannot provide medication management or diagnosis for mental health conditions.

When BetterHelp may not be appropriate

Online therapy can be a useful option for individuals seeking effective mental health care delivered remotely, such as people whose current physical health (e.g., chronic pain) prevents them from leaving home. However, BetterHelp is not recommended for all therapy seekers. People who are experiencing severe forms of mental illness, such as psychotic disorders, are not advised to pursue therapy through BetterHelp. Individuals in need of immediate support are also encouraged to seek emergency services, as opposed to online therapy. Additionally, individuals looking for medication management or diagnostic assessments will need to utilize other care options.

Therapeutic techniques used by BetterHelp therapists

Thanks to high standards regarding therapist qualifications and the use of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, BetterHelp can support individuals seeking to address varied mental health concerns. 

Common therapy approaches available

BetterHelp’s therapists are able to employ therapeutic techniques from a broad array of modalities. The following are therapeutic approaches that you may utilize when working with a professional through BetterHelp:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Psychodynamic therapy
• Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
• Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) 

How does BetterHelp ensure it hires quality therapists?

BetterHelp’s practices prioritize professionalism, licensure, and experience when it comes to working with therapists. The BetterHelp Therapist Onboarding team ensures that every hired provider meets specific therapist qualifications, checking that they are licensed, trained, and in good standing. Our mental health professionals come from a variety of backgrounds and training programs, but have all participated in at least 1,000 hours of clinical practice across a minimum of three years. 

What are the required qualifications for a BetterHelp therapist?

BetterHelp works with licensed psychologists, marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, and other mental health professionals. Every BetterHelp therapist must be fully licensed within their state, which usually requires earning a master’s degree, passing all required exams, and providing 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised mental health services. 

How are therapists matched with clients?

When users sign up through BetterHelp, they are asked to complete a series of questions about their goals, preferences, and mental health challenges to help them connect with the right provider. After completing this survey, users are typically connected with a therapist within a few days, but have the freedom to switch therapists if they feel it isn’t a good match. 

Session frequency, flexibility, and switching therapists

Most users attend one therapy session a week through BetterHelp, and sessions typically average between 30 to 45 minutes long. Many users meet with their therapist through video, although some may prefer audio only. Formatting and scheduling of therapy sessions may depend on what condition is being treated and what goals have been established. Users can also message their therapist anytime through the platform, and therapists will respond to their clients when able. Below, we’re discussing how frequently you can meet with your new therapist, as well as how you can schedule additional sessions and avoid missed sessions. 

How often sessions occur and what is included

As discussed above, weekly therapy sessions are included with a BetterHelp subscription. BetterHelp therapy sessions are typically 35-45 minutes, though the length may depend on your therapist. 

What happens if you miss a session or want to switch

BetterHelp makes it easy for participants to meet with their therapists at times that work for them. And, in some cases, users may schedule additional sessions. Once you’re matched with your new therapist, you can ask them whether they’re able to meet with you more than once per week (and how much extra sessions will cost). Additionally, you’ll likely want to review BetterHelp’s policies regarding missed sessions, as appointments that aren’t attended—and aren’t canceled in a timely manner—may incur a fee. 

Are there ways to track my mental health progress during therapy sessions?

When you begin therapy, you may be assigned a PHQ-9 and/or GAD-7 survey and encouraged to complete a new one every 45 days. This may allow for consistent monitoring and progress tracking. 

Cost, insurance, and payment considerations

Now that we’ve discussed the format and efficacy of online therapy, you may be wondering, How much does BetterHelp cost? Typically, BetterHelp memberships cost between $70 and $100 per week. Additionally, BetterHelp is now able to accept insurance from participants in select states. In addition to working with health insurance companies, BetterHelp offers financial aid to users, which can help cover therapy costs. 

How BetterHelp pricing works

BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and may be billed either weekly or every four weeks. A weekly therapy session, unlimited messaging, educational classes, group seminars, and other features are included in the BetterHelp cost. In some cases, users may qualify for financial aid, which can partially cover therapy costs.

Insurance, HSA, and FSA details

BetterHelp has started to accept insurance from select health insurance companies in certain states. You can find out whether BetterHelp accepts your plan by contacting your provider or reaching out to the BetterHelp Customer Success Team. BetterHelp also accepts health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.

BetterHelp compared to other therapy options

Many people ask how working with an online therapist compares to meeting a counselor in person or engaging in therapy through other formats, such as group sessions. More than 50% of all therapy sessions now occur remotely, and research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy sessions. In some instances, online therapy—through platforms like BetterHelp and Teen Counseling—has proven to be even more effective than traditional therapy. 

BetterHelp vs in-person therapy

The results of a growing number of studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for common mental health challenges. For example, in one study, researchers found that online cognitive behavioral therapy led to greater reductions in depressive symptoms than face-to-face cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Some recent studies have found that:

• About 95% of participants with bipolar disorder experienced an increase in their quality of life after online therapy.
• Many couples prefer virtual therapy to in-person sessions.
• Online therapy can be at least as effective as in-person therapy in treating depression.

While an online therapist may not be able to prescribe medication or diagnose mental health conditions, they can help address a broad range of concerns in an efficacious manner. 

Group sessions and alternatives

Group therapy can also be a useful form of care for individuals living with psychological challenges. BetterHelp offers group sessions that address various facets of mental health. Group sessions allow participants to seek support and learn from people who are going through similar experiences. Studies show that online group therapy can be as effective as in-person group therapy. 

Therapy for teens and couples

Teen Counseling and Regain are sister platforms to BetterHelp that can help couples and teenagers address challenges specific to relationships or adolescent life. There is evidence that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for teen mental health concerns and relationship challenges.

Safety, ethics, and BetterHelp’s practices 

BetterHelp connects therapy seekers with professional advice, useful tools, and overall mental health support. BetterHelp’s practices prioritize discretion and safety, ensuring that users are able to pursue care while maintaining peace of mind.

Platform standards 

BetterHelp ensures that all of its providers are credentialed, experienced, and in good standing. This helps users feel comfortable that they are receiving quality, evidence-based treatment. BetterHelp’s practices also include crisis management protocols that can connect participants with emergency services when necessary.

What can I do to get the most out of my therapy sessions?

Many people wonder how BetterHelp sessions can be optimized to produce consistently positive results. Consistently attending your therapy sessions may be one of the most important actions you can take. In addition, BetterHelp offers various tools and resources to utilize along with what you learn in therapy, such as:

• A journal and progress tracking feature, where you can share life updates with your therapist in between sessions and reflect on your recent life experiences
• More than 300 support groups
• More than 35 educational classes