Online Therapy
Covered By Insurance

BetterHelp may be covered by your insurance plan
— co-pays average about $19/session for eligible members.*

Find a covered therapist *Average co-pay based on insured BetterHelp members. Actual costs vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability.
 
cigna UHC Anthem carefirst highmark

Understanding
insurance plans

man looking at phone

Getting the mental health support you deserve should be simple.

That's why many providers work with major insurance carriers across the U.S. to help make therapy more affordable and accessible.

Many independent providers who deliver care through BetterHelp participate in many major insurance networks such as Cigna and UnitedHealthcare, along with a broad network of state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, including Anthem, CareFirst, Highmark, and others.

Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

What your coverage may include

BetterHelp therapy services may be covered by certain health insurance plans, but coverage varies depending on your specific health plan, insurance provider, and therapist availability.

In addition to facilitating your therapy session,
the BetterHelp platform includes:

Message your therapist anytime
A digital journal with guided prompts
Therapy-focused worksheets to track your progress
talking with therapist on laptop Lady

What’s covered?

For the most accurate and tailored information on what therapy services your insurance plan covers, contact your insurance company directly or consult with your healthcare provider.

Many health insurance plans offer benefits for outpatient mental health services, which can include talk therapy or counseling sessions with licensed professionals.

talking with therapist on laptop Lady

Insurance plans may cover outpatient mental health services for various conditions, including:

  • Mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder)
  • Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety, panic disorder)
  • Trauma-related conditions (e.g., post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD)

Check with your insurance carrier as coverage for mental health services varies by plan, and some insurance policies may include benefits for different therapeutic approaches provided by licensed clinicians. The types of therapy covered — and whether a specific modality is eligible for reimbursement — depend on your insurance carrier’s guidelines and your individual plan.

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

Cost of therapy

With and without insurance

BetterHelp with Insurance
$19 average co-pay / session
BetterHelp Out of Pocket
$70-$100 / week
In-Person Therapy
$100–$350 / session*

Co-pay pricing is based on BetterHelp members who have a co-pay. Your costs may differ and depend on your specific health plan. Weekly cost is based on your location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. *Source

Where insurance may cover online therapy on BetterHelp

In these states, some providers on BetterHelp may be in-network with select insurance plans:

Don’t see your state?

We are currently working with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. Check back to see when your state gets added, in the meantime, our flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network.

Find in-network therapists available in your state

Check your coverage

How it Works

Online therapy with BetterHelp is designed to be simple, discreet, and effective.
Here’s what happens once you get started:

Take a short quiz

Answer a few questions about your needs, goals, and preferences to help us find your right match.

Verify your insurance coverage

Select insurance plans are now accepted. Coverage may vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability.

Get matched with a licensed therapist

If your provider on BetterHelp is in-network, schedule one covered live-session each week.

With BetterHelp, you can go from sign-up to your first session in as little as two days.

Why Choose BetterHelp

Benefits of BetterHelp

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Affordable pricing

With or without insurance

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Discreet appointments

Sessions from anywhere with an internet connection

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One of the world's largest network of therapists

More than 30,000 qualified providers

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Comprehensive matching system

Find the right therapist for you

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The right therapist for you

Switch therapists at no extra cost

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Proven results

Industry-leading user satisfaction

 
72%

of BetterHelp users experienced a reduction in symptoms in 12 weeks*

4.9 out of 5

average rating for a live session, from over 1.7 million client ratings*

82%

of clients in treatment likely to recommend their therapist to others*

93%

of use preferences met when matching with a therapist*

Source: BetterHelp Platform Quality & Outcomes (2024)     *Metrics reflect outcomes from BetterHelp subscription clients (not insurance-based visits). Results may vary.

Frequently asked questions

More FAQs

Does BetterHelp take insurance?

Yes. Some 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.

Explore insurance coverage in states like Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and District of Columbia (DC).

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

Can I get reimbursed for seeing an out-of-network therapist?

Some insurance plans offer partial reimbursement for out-of-network therapy, but coverage depends on your specific plan. It’s important to check your insurance details before starting therapy.

  • In-network providers have contracts with your insurance company and usually offer lower out-of-pocket costs.
  • Out-of-network providers do not have such contracts, which may result in higher costs or limited reimbursement.

Many insurance plans have session limits or caps per year. Understanding these limits can help you plan your therapy and manage costs.

What if my insurance does not cover BetterHelp?

If your insurance plan does not cover BetterHelp, our flexible subscription model continues to be an affordable option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network, with subscriptions around $70-$100/week*.

Online therapy with BetterHelp with or without insurance coverage is an affordable option for mental health care. In-person therapy can cost $100–$350 per session without insurance, while online therapy options can be more affordable if your insurance does not cover BetterHelp.

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

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.

What are typical copays for online therapy with insurance?

Insured members using the BetterHelp platform typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability.

Typical copays for online therapy sessions covered by insurance usually range from $20 to $50 per session, depending on your specific health plan and insurance provider. Some plans may offer lower copays for in-network therapists, helping to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. It's important to check your insurance coverage details to understand your exact copay amounts.

Does BetterHelp accept Cigna?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept Cigna insurance. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.

When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

Does BetterHelp accept UnitedHealthcare?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept UnitedHealthcare insurance. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.

When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

Does BetterHelp accept Blue Cross Blue Shield?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept several state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plans such as Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.

When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

Does BetterHelp accept Aetna?

Yes. Providers on BetterHelp now accept Aetna insurance in Florida, Texas, and Virginia. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.

When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

Don’t see your state? We are currently working with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. Check back to see when your state gets added, in the meantime, our flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network.

How does BetterHelp work?

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects you with qualified providers who can provide compassionate and effective care in a supportive environment, 100% remotely.

When you sign up with BetterHelp, you can get matched with a licensed professional counselor or therapist based on the preferences you outline in a brief onboarding questionnaire. Once matched, you can connect with your therapist via phone, video, or live chat to get evidence-based support for mental health concerns, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more.

How is BetterHelp different from other platforms?

BetterHelp offers therapy with licensed therapists online, with no commuting necessary and access to built-in mental health tools. We also offer one of the largest and most diverse therapist networks which allows us to match clients based on their specific preferences. In 2024, we met 93% of client match preferences, helping clients build stronger therapeutic relationships and stick with treatment.

We continually update our platform, clinical practices, and technology to maintain high quality and ensure clients receive effective, secure care. You can learn more about client outcomes here.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy can help with everything from mental health conditions to everyday life challenges like stress, relationship issues, or feeling stuck.

Whether you’re looking to address symptoms of mood disorders or anxiety, get support in processing past trauma, or find help building healthy coping mechanisms for stress, therapy can often be a helpful tool.

Research suggests that around 75% of people who engage in therapy get some benefit from it. If you’re feeling unsure, try a first therapy session to express your hesitation, get their perspective, and see how you feel afterwards.

How soon can I meet with a therapist?

If you’re experiencing challenges related to your emotional well-being, you may be looking to meet with a therapist as soon as possible.

How soon you can do so depends on the provider. Those who are taking on new clients and have upcoming openings may be able to offer an appointment in the coming days, while others may have longer wait times.

What types of care can I access through BetterHelp?

Just like in-person providers, BetterHelp therapists use evidence-based talk therapy methods to support clients with a range of mental health challenges—such as solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and others.

Each therapist on the platform is qualified, experienced, and has successfully completed a rigorous application process. The BetterHelp onboarding questionnaire asks questions about your needs and preferences in a provider, which can help increase the chances of finding the right match for your needs.

Who are the BetterHelp therapists?

BetterHelp therapists undergo a rigorous application and screening process before being approved to work through the platform. First, their qualifications are verified. They must:

  • Hold a relevant academic degree
  • Have at least three years and over 1,000 hours of hands-on experience
  • Be approved to practice in their state as a licensed professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, licensed marriage and family therapist, psychologist, or similar title

Beyond these qualifications, BetterHelp therapists may have a variety of different specializations or focus areas. Filling out the onboarding questionnaire can help you get matched with a provider who meets your needs.

Is online therapy more affordable than in-person therapy?

Research shows online therapy is often just as effective as in-person therapy and can be an affordable option for seeking mental health care.

For example, in a 2021 study, researchers indicated that “online therapy was more cost-effective than the other forms of care” as well as being similarly effective to in-person care for treating conditions like depression and anxiety.

What can I expect at my first therapy session?

In your first therapy session your therapist will likely start by asking about your health and mental health history to understand your needs better.

These initial intake questions to get to know you better can include discussing:

  • Previous therapy experiences
  • Current challenges
  • Goals for treatment
  • Lifestyle
  • Relationships
  • Any significant life events that could be impacting your mental health

The therapist aims to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings. This initial session is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the therapy process, confidentiality, and what to expect moving forward. Establishing a good rapport and setting clear expectations are key goals for this first meeting, helping to build a foundation for effective therapy.

How can I get started with BetterHelp?

To get started, fill out a brief onboarding questionnaire about your preferences and needs. BetterHelp will then match you with a therapist according to your needs, preferences, and therapy goals. After you’re matched with a therapist, you can schedule your first session, which can be done by video, phone, or live chat.

Get Started More FAQs