What’s Included In Your BetterHelp Subscription For Online Therapy?

BetterHelp subscriptions include one live weekly session with your licensed therapist (via video call, audio, live chat, or messaging), worksheets, webinars, asynchronous in-app messaging, optional group sessions, and more. 

There are four main ways to connect with a mental health professional through BetterHelp's platform: video call sessions, audio sessions, live chat sessions, and messaging through the BetterHelp app. If you're unfamiliar with online therapy platforms, you may also wonder about how this format differs from traditional therapy (in-person therapy). Read on to explore the various elements of your BetterHelp therapy subscription. 

What's included in your BetterHelp subscription when it comes to finding a therapist? 

First, your BetterHelp subscription entitles you to be matched with a qualified therapist, an independent contractor who works with you directly. BetterHelp aims to match you with a therapist who fits your objectives, preferences, and the type of concerns you seek to address as shared in your onboarding questionnaire. Many people can be matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 48 hours, though it can sometimes take longer depending on therapist availability. You also have the option to browse therapists who serve your area and request an appointment with one, which also depends on their availability.  

The mental health professionals that work with BetterHelp include psychologists, marriage and family therapists, social workers, and professional counselors. BetterHelp online therapy works with a range of mental health professionals who specialize in all kinds of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and many others, to address specific mental health conditions and concerns. Once matched, you can schedule your first session via phone, video call, or live chat.

If you decide you would prefer to see another therapist, your subscription also allows you to change therapists and get matched with another provider. With BetterHelp, you can change therapists at any time, for any reason, for no additional cost.

What is the difference between what BetterHelp therapists can and can’t provide?

One important thing to note is that your BetterHelp therapist can’t prescribe medication or give medical advice, and they can also not formally diagnose mental health conditions. For needs like these, connecting with your primary care provider or a psychiatrist in person can be advisable.

Are BetterHelp therapists' mental health credentials verified?

Each BetterHelp therapist must have the same qualifications as any mental health provider offering their services in person. All providers offering online therapy sessions through BetterHelp undergo a thorough verification process. This includes the submission of documentation of the therapist's license, experience, education, and other qualifications. In addition, providers undergo background checks and a case study review. For more information on how BetterHelp vets therapists, see the FAQS page.

What are the different formats of online therapy sessions through BetterHelp?

As mentioned, there are different ways of having therapy sessions through the platform. (You can also change the format to another option as needed.) The practicality of online therapy is one of the main ways it differs from in-person therapy, considering that not everyone has the opportunity to meet in person with a licensed therapist who meets their criteria. These different formats also enable a person to have their mental health concerns addressed in a way that is comfortable for them.

What’s included in your BetterHelp subscription when it comes to ways to connect with your therapist?

There are four main ways to connect with a mental health professional through BetterHelp. Sessions with your therapist can be conducted through:

• Video sessions. This option, which is similar to Zoom or FaceTime in format, allows you to have a video session at a scheduled time. Just before the scheduled time, you can log on, and you’ll be prompted to begin the session. This format may be more similar to in-person therapy when compared to the others, as it allows you to see your therapist and hear their voice. 
• Audio sessions. This format allows you to speak with your therapist, audio–only, through your cell phone or landline. You'll just have to schedule a time and log in to your Therapy tab at that time to begin your session. The system will ask for your number, then call you and connect you to your therapist via audio without sharing your number with your therapist. 
• Live chat sessions. Live chat means you can type messages to your therapist and receive their responses back in real time. It’s like texting back and forth, but through the BetterHelp platform in order to receive direct support for the duration of your session.
• In-app messaging. You can also message your therapist through the platform at any time outside of sessions. These messages are not in real-time, so your therapist can respond with guidance, tips, insights, and resources as soon as they’re able.

During a video, audio, or live chat session, you and your therapist will discuss your concerns, and your therapist will guide you in managing symptoms related to the mental health challenges you may be experiencing. They will also use evidence-based therapy techniques to support your mental health journey.

What's the cost of a BetterHelp subscription? 

The cost of online therapy through BetterHelp ranges from $70 to $100 per week, which is billed weekly or every four weeks. This can be less than the cost of most in-person therapy sessions without insurance. 

The cost of therapy sessions through BetterHelp is based on factors like your location, referral source, preferences, and therapist availability. There may also be applicable promotions and discounts in some cases. In addition, the platform may offer income-based rates or financial aid to those who qualify.

What are the cost savings of online therapy sessions vs. in-person therapy sessions?

When considering the average cost of in-person therapy, BetterHelp can offer considerable savings. According to a report published in Forbes, the average cost of in-person therapy in 2025 in the US ranges from $100 to $200 per session. 

BetterHelp is working with select insurance carriers to join their network. Some therapists on the BetterHelp platform now accept insurance (state-limited). Until then, the flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care. To pay for your subscription, you can use a credit or debit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

What's included in your BetterHelp subscription?

Your subscription comes with various features. Users receive the following:

• One live session per week with your therapist (either a 30-minute or 45-minute session), which amounts to four online therapy sessions per month 
• BetterHelp webinars on various mental health topics 
• Asynchronous in-app messaging to your therapist
• A journal feature through the Apple or Android app
• Worksheets assigned by your therapist, as applicable, to support your therapy journey
• Optional group sessions on various topics
• The ability to change therapists for no extra cost until you find the right match
• The ability to have more than one session per week, depending on the therapist's availability, for an additional cost

What if I want to cancel my BetterHelp subscription? 

If you have achieved your mental health goals, prefer to see an in-person therapist, or feel that online therapy sessions are not benefiting you, you can cancel your BetterHelp subscription at any time, for any reason. There are no penalties for cancelling, and you do not have to state the reason to the therapist. 

How do you know if BetterHelp is right for you? 

Online therapy through BetterHelp may be suitable for you if you're seeking to improve your well-being, quality of life, or mental health. For example, if there's a concern that is interfering with the quality of your relationships, self-esteem, goals, or sense of fulfillment, therapy sessions through the platform may benefit you.

Is online therapy through BetterHelp suitable for everyone?

While BetterHelp can benefit many individuals seeking mental health support, there can be cases where the platform may not be suitable. Examples of such cases include:

• Being required to attend therapy by a court order or authority
• Being a minor or under the care of a legal guardian
• Having an internet connection that is not strong, or no internet availability
• Experiencing a mental health emergency
• Requiring a diagnosis, prescription, or medication management

Can online therapy be a substitute for traditional in-person therapy?

Research generally suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person care in many cases. However, there are certain instances in which online therapy may not be the right format, as outlined above. Outside of these situations, a person can generally feel confident in the quality of care they will receive from a licensed therapist whether they attend sessions online or in person.

How effective is online therapy for mental health?

Many studies indicate that online therapy can often benefit individuals and help address mental health symptoms. For example, one meta-analysis of various studies suggests that therapy via video can be equally effective as in-person therapy sessions in many cases.