Payment options

Hi Allie, thank you for reaching out. Looking at the cost of counseling can feel like a lot, and it makes sense to ask about payment options. It can help to see therapy as an investment in yourself, and there are several BetterHelp payment options that may make care more affordable.

If cost is a concern, BetterHelp offers financial aid for subscribers with lower incomes or financial challenges. You can apply for it right from your account settings, and it may lower your weekly cost.

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. You can read more about how BetterHelp works with insurance and enter your insurance information during sign-up to view available options.

If insurance isn't available to you, online therapy through BetterHelp also comes with a flexible subscription model, typically $70–$100 per week. Many people can also use HSA or FSA funds toward therapy, though eligibility may vary, so verify with your plan administrator.

Beyond BetterHelp, community walk-in and telehealth clinics often provide low-cost or sliding-scale counseling. It's also worth checking whether your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which may cover a set number of sessions.

Whatever path you choose, taking this step shows real care for yourself. When you're ready, support is here.

Kelsey Place, LICSW

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

What does the average copay look like for eligible members?

Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Costs may vary based on deductible status, copays, coinsurance, and individual plan benefits.

Which major insurance carriers work with BetterHelp providers?

Many providers accept plans from carriers such as Cigna and Evernorth, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and regional Blue Cross Blue Shield plans including Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Availability varies by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

How do I check my in-network status?

During sign-up, enter your insurance information to view available options, estimated costs, and plan details. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign-up flow.

What if insurance isn't available in my state?

If insurance isn't available at this time, BetterHelp offers a flexible subscription option, typically $70–$100 per week, as a quality alternative for accessing therapy.

Can I use an HSA or FSA to pay for therapy through BetterHelp?

Many people can use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds toward therapy, which is often a qualified medical expense. Eligibility may vary, so verify with your plan administrator.

Is online therapy covered the same as in-person therapy?

Many health insurance plans include mental health benefits that may cover online therapy, also called telehealth or virtual therapy. Coverage depends on your specific plan, network participation, deductible status, and state regulations. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

What if I can't afford therapy right now?

BetterHelp offers financial aid for subscribers with lower incomes or financial challenges, which you can apply for from your account settings. Community mental health clinics and employer assistance programs may also offer lower-cost support.

How does BetterHelp's subscription option compare when insurance doesn't apply?

When insurance isn't available, the subscription model (about $70–$100 per week) provides another way to access quality care from BetterHelp's therapist network. Members may also use HSA or FSA funds where eligible.

What costs should I expect when using insurance for therapy?

Costs may vary based on deductible status, copays, coinsurance, and individual plan benefits. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Members may also use HSA or FSA funds where eligible.

• HSA or FSA funds: Members may use these accounts toward therapy where eligible.

• Sliding-scale fees: Some community providers adjust fees based on income.

• Community clinics: Local mental health clinics may offer low-cost counseling.

• Employer programs: Many EAPs cover a set number of therapy sessions.