Online Therapy UK – Qualified & Flexible Mental Health Support

Yes, BetterHelp therapists in the UK are qualified and registered providers. You'll work with professional, credentialed therapists who practise in the UK, 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 remote therapy approach suits you.

Each therapist offering 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.

Each therapist offering 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 virtual therapy services to users. In addition to having the necessary credentials, applicants must complete a case study assessment graded by a professional clinician.

Yes, talking therapies and counselling modalities 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, at the same level as face-to-face counselling. 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 to access support from their own home. It can be helpful to explore which option provides you with your preferred safe, personal space.

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. This may also include challenges associated with common life environments, such as work or university settings.

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

If you're in crisis, experiencing an emergency, or don't have a reliable internet connection, this service isn't appropriate. If you've experienced severe trauma, such as sexual abuse, specialized and confidential in-person care may be helpful. A doctor or medical professional may also be able to help clients deal with similar concerns.

The information you share is protected by data privacy laws; for more information, please see our Privacy Policy and terms of service. You can also learn more about how therapists handle your information here.

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

Explore additional benefits of online therapy here and learn more about what BetterHelp can treat here.

Please note: 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).

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.

Learn more about the factors that may affect the cost of psychotherapy here.

A BetterHelp subscription is billed on a weekly or monthly basis. After you complete the sign-up quiz and enter your credit card information, you’ll be charged for the first four-week subscription once you’re matched with a provider. You’ll be charged consistent prices using the billing information you provided initially, though the exact dates and schedule for money due may vary. You can change your billing information at any time through your online account.

The 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 as part of the therapy services you pay for.

We start to find a therapist for you 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.

You can switch psychotherapists 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.

Yes, the NHS offers free online therapy in the UK. If you wish to seek help through the NHS, you absolutely can—BetterHelp is a separate, non-public online service providing affordable support. The NHS accepts self-referrals, as well as referrals from GPs, for mental health services. NHS talking therapies can be an option for those looking for free counselling services or even low cost counselling services; however, please refer to the official NHS website for additional information on support services or free therapy options.

Some people may also choose to access support through other routes, such as an employee assistance programme, depending on what affordable therapy options are available to them.

Finding the right online therapy provider for you can involve:

• Understanding why you’re seeking therapy: For mild to moderate anxiety or depression, NHS or private online services may both be suitable. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or are in crisis, seek urgent in-person support through NHS 111, A&E, or 999.
• Identifying your preferences: You may prefer a therapist who shares your identity, background, or language. Some online platforms, like BetterHelp, allow you to filter and select therapists to find a strong match.
• Considering speed of access: If you would like to start therapy immediately, a private, online therapy provider may be a good starting point.
• Reviewing cost and affordability: NHS therapy is free for UK residents. Private providers typically charge weekly or monthly fees.
• Checking qualifications and flexibility: Look for recognised professional credentials, discreet platforms, and the option to switch therapists if needed.

Once you’ve identified your top priorities in a provider, you can explore platforms and providers aligned with your needs.