What if I can’t afford the counseling is there anywhere I could go that I could afford?

Therapy can feel out of reach when finances are tight, but deciding to reach out for support is an important step—and there may be more affordable paths forward than you expect.

BetterHelp offers financial aid that can reduce your fee based on your income and other financial factors. When you enter your payment details, look for the “Apply for Financial Aid” link and answer a few questions about your situation; any discount is applied instantly, and you can reapply every three months to keep a lower rate.

Insurance may also be an option. Many therapists on BetterHelp now accept major insurance plans, though availability is state-limited. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. During sign-up, you can enter your insurance information to view available options—you can learn more about insurance options at BetterHelp. When sessions are covered, eligible members’ average copay is about $23 per session.

If insurance isn’t available in your area, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains a quality option, with plans generally ranging from $70 to $100 per week (billed weekly or every four weeks). You can explore how online therapy at BetterHelp works to find the fit that suits you.

There are other affordable routes worth considering, too. A therapist who offers sliding-scale fees sets their rate based on your income, which can make care more accessible. Educational group sessions are often free or low cost and connect you with others navigating similar concerns. University or teaching clinics typically offer reduced-cost sessions with a supervised therapist-in-training, and some employers provide an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that may include lower-cost or free counseling.

Seeking therapy can help, and finances don’t have to stand in the way. Whether you use financial aid, a sliding-scale therapist, or online therapy at BetterHelp, there may be a way to get the support you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans in select states. When sessions are covered, eligible members’ average copay is about $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and you can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign-up flow.

What’s the average copay for eligible members?

Eligible members’ average copay is about $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 on BetterHelp may accept insurance through carriers such as Cigna, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare, along with regional Blue Cross Blue Shield plans including Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

How can I check my in-network status?

During sign-up, you can enter your insurance information to view available options and see what may apply to you. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability.

What if insurance isn’t available in my state?

BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains available, with plans generally around $70 to $100 per week. BetterHelp is also working with additional carriers to expand access to care.

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

Many people can use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds to help pay for therapy services, as therapy 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?

Several options may help make care more accessible, including BetterHelp’s income-based financial aid and therapists who offer sliding-scale fees. Educational group sessions, university or teaching clinics, and employer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can also be lower-cost ways to find support.

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

When insurance isn’t available, BetterHelp’s subscription-based option offers flexible access to licensed therapists for around $70 to $100 per week, including in-app messaging and weekly live sessions. It’s simply another way to access quality care that may fit your needs and budget.

Is online therapy a more affordable option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp generally costs $70 to $100 per week, while in-person sessions often range from $100 to $350 per session. Research suggests online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, which may make it a more accessible choice.