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

Deciding to see a therapist to address your mental health concerns can be difficult but important. It is a hard enough decision to make for many people without also having to worry about finances. 

BetterHelp offers financial aid that reduces the fee based on your income and/or other financial burdens. The initial questionnaire asks about employment status and potential financial factors that hinder one from addressing their emotional and/or mental health concerns. There is also a further opportunity to describe your financial situation, which may result in a greater discount. When you enter your payment details, look for the "Apply for Financial Aid" link. You will answer a few additional questions regarding your financial situation. The discount you receive is instant and is based on a good-faith representation of your financial situation. You will need to reapply for Financial Aid every three months to continue receiving the lower rate. BetterHelp will send you a reminder email as that date approaches to remind you.

We are also working with select insurance carriers to join their network, and many of our therapists are now accepting insurance (state-limited). Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability. During your initial questionnaire, we’ll also ask a few questions to determine your eligibility for insurance coverage. If insurance coverage is not an option, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model is always available, with membership costs ranging from $70 to $100 per week (billed weekly or every four weeks). 

Another option that many people are seeking is a therapist who offers sliding scale fee therapy. If you qualify, this type of fee structure can make it possible for you to get the help you need. The amount you pay for therapy on a sliding scale fee is calculated on your income. 

There are other options as well. Some of these include group therapy, teaching clinics, and employee programs.

• Group therapy - Most of the time, sessions are free or very low cost and you meet with a group of people with similar mental health concerns and struggles. A therapist mediates the group and focuses the conversation.
• University or teaching clinics - Teaching clinics usually offer a sliding scale fee or low-cost therapy. In these situations, you would see the therapist and an intern who is receiving training. 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Some employers offer EAP that may offer lower-cost mental healthcare. You would need to call or review your EAP to see the benefits.

Seeking therapy can help you. Don't let finances get in the way. Whether you find a therapist who will work with you on a sliding scale, or you choose online therapy at BetterHelp, get the support you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does BetterHelp take insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability. When sessions are covered, members who have a copay typically pay an average of about $19 per session.

What insurance plans are accepted on BetterHelp?

Many independent providers on BetterHelp accept insurance from major carriers, including Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and several state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plans such as Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Coverage varies by state and by provider availability.

Don’t see your insurance plan? BetterHelp is working with major insurance carriers across the United States to provide affordable therapy through insurance. Until then, our flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network, with subscriptions around $70-$100/week*.

*Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.

What types of therapy are typically covered by insurance?

Insurance often covers individual therapy, family and couples counseling (when deemed medically necessary), psychiatric services including medication management, and online therapy options. Please note that providers on BetterHelp do not prescribe medications. 

Contact your insurance provider directly using the number on your insurance card, check online member portals, or ask your therapist to verify your coverage to learn more.

What costs should I expect when using insurance for therapy?

You may have copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses depending on your plan. Reviewing your insurance coverage can help you understand these costs.

If insurance doesn’t fully cover therapy costs, there are options that include:

• Using health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Seeking providers who offer sliding scale fees or payment plans
• Exploring community mental health resources
• Checking with your employer to see if they offer EAPs that provide free or low-cost therapy sessions to employees and their families

How can I find out if my insurance covers therapy?

To find out if your insurance covers therapy, start by calling the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. 

Provide your policy details and ask specific questions about your mental health benefits, including:

• Coverage for therapy sessions
• Copays
• Session limits
• Whether your preferred therapist is an in-network provider

You can also ask your therapist or their office to verify your insurance coverage before beginning treatment. Additionally, many insurance companies offer online member portals where you can check your coverage details and find in-network therapists.

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

Yes, many insurance plans cover online therapy (telehealth) at the same level as in-person therapy sessions. 

Under federal laws like the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to provide comparable coverage for mental health care delivered via telehealth. Coverage applies when services are provided by licensed therapists or providers.