Quality Matches Quality Outcomes

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Finding the right therapist isn't
just important - it's everything.

Finding the right therapist is a top predictor of clinical outcomes and true progress in therapy. But it’s not always easy—especially if you’re trying it for the first time. With one of the world’s largest networks of credentialed therapists and a decade of experience in data-driven matching, BetterHelp makes it easy to find the life-changing help you need.

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Our Therapist Match Commitment

No Guesswork, Just Connection

Unlike platforms that simply send you to a directory to find a therapist on your own, BetterHelp matches members based on preference, clinical experience, and 10+ years of expertise, using a powerful data-driven algorithm. The result? A highly effective match made in as little as 48 hours.

Our diverse provider network enables us to match over 90% of client preferences.*

And if the first match isn't right, you can switch anytime - at no extra cost.

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*May vary by region and supply of therapists based on health plan (when insurance is used).

How we ensure quality

Quality matches drive quality outcomes. Our superior matching is thanks to the size and diversity of our network and our years of experience in mental health.

Therapists who are
experienced professionals

  • Average of 8 years professional experience
  • One-third have an industry-leading 15+ years of experience
  • All have minimum 3 years clinical practice

We conduct routine evaluations to uphold clinical and evidence-based practice standards:

  • PHQ-9 & GAD-7 assessments for all clients
  • 24/7 crisis support access
  • Ongoing quality monitoring for outcomes + alliance
  • 50% fewer complaints than industry benchmarks

Clinical outcomes

Therapy works, and at BetterHelp we use real science and research to measure impact.
Our care is rooted in evidence-based practice and monitored for results.*

93%

Are successfully matched with the right therapist*

72%

See symptom reduction in 12 weeks**

82%

Of clients would recommend their therapist***

  • Industry-leading speed of two days or less (on average) from onboarding to connecting with a therapist.
  • BetterHelp is one of the leading platforms for quick access, with clients matched to a therapist in two days or less on average.
  • In 2024 the average rating for a live session on the platform was 4.9 of 5 based on over 1.7M client ratings.
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What our members are saying

“I have never liked therapy, but Susan has changed my life. I now look forward to sessions, I’m excited to talk to her, and I feel more in control of my life.”

- Review of Susan Domingue, LPC

Susan D.

Susan D. LPC

“She is an amazing therapist. This was more of a benefit than I thought. I don’t think I ever had anyone else see me so clearly and give me the tools to progress.”

- Review of Dr. Deaetta Grinnage, LPC

Deaetta G.

Deaetta G. LPC

“Mary has helped me more than I could have imagined. She’s helped with many different issues in my life, giving me tools to help myself. So glad I found her on BetterHelp!”

- Review of Mary Pulscher, LMHC

Mary P.

Mary P. LMHC

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Frequently asked questions

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Research consistently shows that a strong alliance between therapist and client is associated with several positive therapeutic outcomes, including:

  • Clients with a healthy relationship with their therapist are more likely to experience positive changes and achieve their treatment goals.
  • Clients who feel connected and supported by their therapist are more likely to remain in therapy and complete their treatment plan.

When reviewing therapist profiles, verify that they're credentialed to practice in your state and have the training and experience required for addressing your specific needs. Other practical considerations might include:

  • Cost: Check their fees and whether they offer financial assistance if necessary.
  • Availability and scheduling: Consider their availability and whether their scheduling fits your needs.
  • Technical factors: Find out what type of medium they prefer to work from—such as video sessions, audio, or others.

We require every Therapist providing Therapist Services on the Platform to be trained and experienced credentialed U.S. Psychologist (PhD / PsyD), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) or similar applicable recognized professional license based on their state and/or jurisdiction. Therapists must have a relevant academic degree in their field, at least 3 years of experience, at least 1,000 hours of hands-on experience, and have to be qualified and credentialed by their respective state board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice requirements as applicable. Learn more about the therapists

Our team ensures that every provider we bring to the platform is credentialed and in good standing. Providers who apply are required to provide a valid license and proof of identity. We then cross-check their licensure information with their respective state licensing board.

Therapists must also undergo a background report, and are subject to periodic checks via the NPDB (National Practitioner Data Bank) registry. In addition to these checks, potential providers must also complete a case study graded by a credentialed clinician. The result of this rigorous process is that less than a third of applicants who apply to work as therapists through BetterHelp are accepted to the platform.

We also show the full credential information for each provider to make it easy for you to do your own due diligence on your therapist.

To change from one therapist to another, first log in to your BetterHelp account through the website or mobile app. Once yo've logged on:

  • Click on your profile icon (located in the top right corner).
  • Navigate to the “account settings” section within your profile.
  • Navigate to the “my therapist” section and click on the option to request a new therapist.
  • Browse through the list of new therapists and choose one that meets your needs or allow BetterHelp to match you with one.
  • Click on the "select this counselor" button to confirm your new therapist.

You may be asked to provide feedback on your current therapist, including why you wanted to switch. Sharing isn't mandatory, but giving feedback can help BetterHelp match you with the best possible replacement.

You don't have to communicate with your therapist about why you'd like to find someone new; BetterHelp can inform them if you prefer. However, discussing your reasons with them may allow them to offer better service for others in the future.

Once you've completed the process, BetterHelp can match you with another credentialed therapist, and you'll be notified once they accept your request. From there, you can message your new counselor and schedule therapy sessions.

Some people easily recognize when it's time to change counselors. For others, it may not be as obvious. Signs that you may need to change your counselor include:

  • You don't feel like you're making any progress.
  • You feel misunderstood or unheard.
  • Your therapist makes you feel uncomfortable or behaves inappropriately
  • Your therapist is disrespectful or pushes their beliefs onto you.
  • Your therapist seems distracted, disinterested, or frequently interrupts you during sessions.
  • You feel judged or ashamed of your feelings.
  • You feel worse after your sessions.
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