What happens if I can’t afford 45$ a week but need counseling??

Hi Crystal,

Cost can feel like a real barrier when you need counseling, and wanting support while watching a tight budget is completely understandable. The encouraging part is that there are several paths that may make care more affordable, so needing help and managing cost don’t have to be at odds.

A good first step may be financial assistance. BetterHelp offers financial assistance to eligible members based on need, and you can reach out to the Customer Success Team to learn more about eligibility and the options that might fit your situation.

Insurance may be another way to lower the cost of care. 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, and in-network status can be checked on the BetterHelp site through the sign-up flow.

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), those funds may also help pay for therapy, since therapy is generally considered a qualified medical expense. Eligibility can vary, so it may help to verify the details with your plan administrator.

If insurance isn’t available to you right now, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription for affordable online therapy — around $70 to $100 per week — can be a quality alternative. Subscription pricing is based on factors such as location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable promotions.

Beyond online platforms, it may also be worth exploring community mental health centers and providers who offer sliding-scale fees in your area, as these can sometimes adjust pricing based on income. Your mental health matters, Crystal, and taking even a small step to look into these options can help you find a path that fits your budget and your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

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

What does the average copay look like for eligible members?

Eligible members’ average copay is $23 per session. Actual costs can vary based on the specific plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

Which major insurance carriers work with BetterHelp providers?

Many independent providers on BetterHelp participate in major insurance networks such as Cigna, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare, along with state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plans including Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Availability may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

How do I check my in-network status?

In-network status can be checked on the BetterHelp site through the sign-up flow, which takes just a few minutes. It’s a simple way to see the options that may be available to you.

What if insurance isn’t available in my state?

If insurance isn’t available at this time, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model — around $70 to $100 per week — can be a quality alternative. Financial assistance for eligible members and HSA/FSA funds may also help reduce costs.

Can I use HSA or FSA funds to pay for therapy?

Many people can use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to help pay for therapy, as it is generally considered a qualified medical expense. Eligibility may vary, so it can help to verify with your plan administrator.

What if I can’t afford therapy at all right now?

Several options may help: financial assistance for eligible members based on need, HSA or FSA funds, and community mental health centers or providers that offer sliding-scale fees. Exploring a few of these together can help you find an approach that fits your budget.

How does the BetterHelp subscription option compare when insurance doesn’t apply?

When insurance doesn’t apply, the subscription option offers a flexible way to access care, typically ranging from $70 to $100 per week and including weekly live sessions with a licensed therapist. Members can also use in-app messaging, and therapists respond as soon as they can.