Get the support you deserve from a credentialed online therapist

Online therapy UK uses the same evidence-based modalities as in-person therapy to help individuals address a variety of mental health concerns. The primary difference between in-person and online therapy is that online therapy takes place virtually and requires a personal device (such as a cell phone or laptop) and a strong internet connection.

During online counselling sessions, users connect with an online therapist who is trained and qualified to provide treatment. Through video, audio, or live chat sessions, each individual can work together with their counsellor to talk about their challenges, learn effective coping skills, and move forward with improved mental health.

Many people appreciate the flexibility and customizability of online therapy. For example, it's often possible to schedule sessions outside of typical office hours, such as in the evenings and on weekends. The option to choose between online chat, audio, and video can also make it easier to tailor the therapy experience to your comfort level. The ability to send messages to your counsellor outside of sessions can be helpful for taking note of any questions you have or topics you'd like to discuss during your next appointment.

You'll work with professional, credentialed therapists who practise in the UK and have verified training and supervised experience across a range of specialties. Our network includes thousands of UK-based professionals, so you can find someone whose approach suits you. Each therapist who has been vetted to offer counselling on the BetterHelp platform has a profile where you can view their certifications and experience. Therapists are held to ongoing professional standards determined by the professional associations to which they belong. Only around one-third of applicants to the BetterHelp platform are accepted to offer therapy services to users. In addition to having the necessary credentials, applicants must complete a case study graded by a professional clinician.

After you complete a short questionnaire, we'll match you to a therapist whose experience aligns with your goals and preferences. Matching can occur in as little as 48 hours (timing varies). If the first match isn't right, you can switch therapists at any time and at no extra charge until you find a good fit.

Talking therapies tend to be equally effective whether they are delivered in person or online, according to a growing body of research. For example, a 2022 meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of teletherapy, finding that it led to significant symptom reductions. The analysis concluded that client outcomes do not differ between teletherapy and in-person therapy.

In many cases, the choice between in-person and online therapy depends on your preferences and comfort level. Some people feel comfortable seeing their counsellors in-office, while others enjoy the convenience of online sessions.

It can be important to note that in-person services are often necessary for crisis situations, mental health conditions involving psychosis, eating disorders requiring medical intervention, severe trauma, and medication management. However, online therapy can treat a variety of mental health concerns, including high stress levels, burnout, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship challenges, and more..

People use BetterHelp to work on concerns like the following:

• Anxiety
• Low mood and depression
• Stress
• Relationships
• Grief
• Sleep challenges
• Low self-esteem
• Life transitions

If you're in crisis, under 18, ordered to attend therapy by a court/authority, or don't have a reliable internet connection, this service isn't appropriate. If you've experienced severe trauma, such as sexual abuse, specialized in-person care may be helpful.

Individuals in crisis can contact the Samaritans helpline anytime, 24/7, for support at 116 123. The Mind support line is also available at 0300 102 1234 and is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM (excluding bank holidays).

If you wish to seek help through the NHS, you absolutely can—BetterHelp is a separate, non-public online service. The NHS accepts self-referrals, as well as referrals from GPs, for mental health services.

Subscription cost ranges from £45 to £70 per week, billed weekly or monthly. You can pause or cancel your subscription at any time. Pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.

A BetterHelp subscription includes a weekly online therapy appointment with your counsellor, as well as additional services like asynchronous messaging with your therapist outside of sessions. Features like goal-tracking, journaling, educational webinars, and support groups are also included.

We start matching as soon as you finish the intake questionnaire. The matching process can be as quick as 48 hours, but it may take longer, depending on therapist availability and your preferences. Once you've been matched with a credentialed professional, you can look at their availability and book your first session. Depending on their calendar, you may be able to set up an appointment within a few days or weeks. Sessions can occur via video, audio, or online chat, according to your preferences.

Choose what works best each week: video, phone, or live chat. You can switch formats at any time. BetterHelp also offers the option to use an in-app messaging feature between sessions. You can reach out to your counsellor at any time, and they will respond when they are able.

A typical therapy session through BetterHelp is 30 to 45 minutes long and can take place via phone, video, or live chat. Many people choose different modes of communication for their therapy sessions, depending on their preferences that day. Sometimes, you may feel more comfortable typing out your thoughts and feelings using the online chat option, and at other times, you may prefer to see your therapist's face and body language with the video chat option, for example.

Outside of remote sessions, you can send in-app messages to your therapist at any time. This can be helpful if you want to keep track of progress, mention topics you'd like to talk about in your next session, or ask questions between sessions. Your counsellor will answer when they can, which can be within 24 hours.

It's common and expected to feel nervous before your first session. In most cases, this session is an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other. Your therapist may start by introducing themselves and talking about their approach to therapy before asking you questions about the challenges that led you to seek support. Once they've learned a bit more about you and the difficulties you're experiencing, you may collaborate to determine therapy goals and a plan for future sessions.

If you're not sure what to talk about, that's completely fine. Your counsellor will guide the session and cultivate a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel comfortable opening up. Keep in mind that if your first therapist match isn't a good fit for your needs, you can switch therapists at any time.

As you prepare for your first session, you may find it helpful to take time to consider the symptoms, stressors, or difficulties you've been experiencing. Writing down a few things you'd like to address or mental health goals you'd like to achieve can give you reference points to talk about during your appointment.

Online therapy can be effective for many people, but it isn't suitable for every situation. Providers on BetterHelp don't issue medical diagnoses, fulfil court-ordered services, or prescribe medication.

You can switch therapists at any time, for any reason, and at no extra charge. Finding the right fit tends to be crucial for the best results, and we want to ensure your online therapist matches your needs and preferences. In addition, you can choose different modes of communication for each of your online therapy sessions, with video, phone, and online chat options available. You might opt for an audio session one week and online chat the next, for instance.

BetterHelp is available for users ages 18 and older. Individuals under age 18 are not eligible for this service, but there are other options for support. The UK's Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) provides mental health services to individuals aged 11 to 18.

There's no fixed timeline - continue for as long as it's helpful. You can take breaks, change therapists, pause, or cancel your subscription whenever you'd like.