Anxiety is a common mental health condition that impacts countless people every year. Anxiety disorders are estimated to affect nearly 40 million American adults, but only 37% receive treatment. (1) Social stigma, lack of accessibility, and high costs are often at the root of why someone might not get treatment for their anxiety. (2)
Fortunately, in recent years, online therapy has emerged as a convenient—and often more affordable—way to treat mental health conditions like anxiety. You can meet with a qualified therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor from the comfort of your home and minimize the stress of scheduling and attending an appointment in person. Depending on your preference, online therapy platforms also tend to offer more flexibility in scheduling and various communication tools like video calls, phone calls, text messages, and online chats. You can even be anonymous on some platforms if you want.
To help you find the best online therapy for anxiety that fits your needs, we spent hours evaluating and researching the top online platforms. Not only did we consider the price and value of the service, but we also considered the extra features they provide, the types of therapy available, and the ease of scheduling with a qualified therapist. Here is what you need to know about the best online therapy for anxiety.
If you’re struggling with thoughts of harming yourself, help is available right away. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support from a trained counselor. Or, if you are in immediate danger, call 988 right away. You can even call 911—the most important thing is to talk to someone about how you are feeling.
Best online therapy for anxiety overall
When it comes to finding online therapy for anxiety, Brightside Health stood out above the rest for its accessibility, comprehensiveness, and ease of use. We also appreciated its additional features, like ongoing assessment tools and video tutorials, to enhance your therapy experience. Its newly developed Crisis Care program is a much-needed tool for people who are considering suicide or have attempted it in the past.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best online therapy for anxiety
- Best overall: Brightside Health
- Best for CBT: Online-therapy.com
- Best for generalized anxiety disorder: BetterHelp
- Most comprehensive: Talkspace
- Best for teens: Teen Counseling
- Best postpartum: Hers
- Best without insurance: Open Path Collective
- Best for kids: LiveHealth Online
- Best for parents: Regain
- Best for group support: Mindful Care
Our online therapy services testing methodology
For so many people, anxiety can be an intense emotion. For others, it can be quite debilitating. Because of this, it’s important that we test online therapy services using various factors to ensure we’re only recommending the best so you can get the right care you need. Read more about Fortune’s teletherapy testing methodology for further information on each category and factor.
Therapist quality—30%
A top-notch teletherapy service should feel both personal and professional, not impersonal, or generic. It should connect users with certified and experienced therapists, not unqualified individuals. Here’s what we look for:
- Expertise
- Personalization
- Interaction quality
Accessibility and convenience—30%
Teletherapy directly impacts an individual’s ability to seek, engage with, and benefit from mental health services. Whether it’s a scheduling issue, lack of transportation, or being physically unable to see a therapist in person, everyone’s situation is different. With the convenience of teletherapy being a significant advantage, we evaluate:
- Ease of use
- Availability
- Platform reliability
Cost and value—20%
Unfortunately, mental health services are not a financial privilege for most people who don’t have insurance that covers it. In an era where mental health care is more in demand, yet often more expensive than ever, assessing the cost-effectiveness of teletherapy services becomes not just relevant but essential.
Here’s what we factor into a teletherapy’s cost and value rating:
- Pricing transparency
- Insurance and coverage
- Value for money
Support and resources—10%
Having additional support and resources is invaluable for clients seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health issues, learn additional coping strategies, or continue therapeutic work in between sessions. Beyond the therapy sessions, additional support can enhance the therapeutic experience.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Supplementary materials
- Customer support
- Aftercare
Privacy and security—10%
While teletherapy is an incredibly convenient way to seek mental health, it poses some risks. Maintaining client confidentiality and data security is paramount in teletherapy. As clients entrust teletherapy services with their mental health information, stories, and vulnerabilities, the responsibility of these platforms to protect such information is paramount.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Compliance with HIPAA and data protection laws
- Encryption and security measures
- Anonymity options
Compare online therapy for anxiety
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| Brightside Health | Online-therapy.com | BetterHelp | Talkspace | Teen Counseling | Hers | Open Path Collective | LiveHealth Online | Regain | Mindful Care | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Session type | Individual | Individual, Couples | Individual, Couples, Teens | Individual, Couple, Teen, Veteran, LGBTQIA+ | Teens | Individual | Individual, Couples, Kids, Families | Individual, Kids (10-17), Couples, Families | Individual, Couples | Individual |
| Cost | $95-$349 per month | $50-$110 per week | $70-$100 per week | $69-$109 per week | $65-$90 per week | $90 per session | $40-$70 per session | $85-$100 per session | $65-$90 per week | $35 per group session |
| Accepts insurance | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Best overall online therapy for anxiety: Brightside Health
Key product features
What you should know
Brightside Health is a quality online therapy program for anxiety that offers a free assessment and can connect you with a therapist in as little as 24 hours. You can also use its ongoing assessment tools and video tutorials to further broaden your therapy experience and help you make the changes you want.
- Brightside’s therapy is easily accessible and includes 45-minute video sessions as well as an “Anytime Messaging” option for connecting with your therapist when you have questions or need a little extra support.
- While Brightside Health tends to be expensive without insurance coverage, it is an affordable option for those who have coverage. It even accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
- This online therapy program is best for those looking for comprehensive anxiety treatment that is tailored to meet their needs.
- If you are in crisis, contemplating suicide, or have attempted suicide in the past, Brightside also offers a crisis program specifically tailored to meet the needs and concerns of those at risk.
Why we like Brightside Health as best overall
When it comes to choosing online therapy for anxiety, it’s hard to top Brightside Health. Not only does it provide effective, evidence-based treatment for people with anxiety, but it also specializes in treating anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias, panic disorders, and more.
We love that Brightside offers tools for reducing worry, tension, obsessive thinking, rumination, and more with approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—the gold standard for treating anxiety disorders. It even offer symptom trackers, quizzes, and video tools to help people gauge how they’re doing and if adjustments need to be made in their treatment. But what we really appreciate is how accessible its therapists are.
You can be scheduled with a therapist as soon as 24 hours after you reach out. This quick availability is essential for anyone dealing with anxiety, as waiting days to talk to someone can often exacerbate symptoms and lead to more rumination and worry. (3, 4)
Brightside also offers convenient appointment hours, including nights and weekends, which is ideal for people who cannot miss work to see a therapist or those who tend to small children and need flexible hours. Moreover, the clinicians are knowledgeable, experienced, and, most importantly, accessible—even between appointments. You can use its “anytime messaging” for quick questions or additional support between sessions.
Brightside Health even offers Crisis Care, a one-of-a-kind online program developed for people who are at an elevated risk for suicide. Those who have suicidal thoughts or had a recent suicide attempt may benefit from this one-to-one program that is tailored to help people who are hurting work through their thoughts and feelings in a collaborative, sensitive way that honors their struggles, protects their privacy, and is tailored to their needs.
People who have suicidal thoughts or previous gestures often struggle with mental illness, specifically anxiety.
Check out our full Brightside Health review for more information.
“Many of my therapy clients with suicidal thoughts have an anxiety disorder as well, with ruminating thoughts that impact their ability to reduce self-harm behaviors and thoughts.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
What customers are saying
People who use Brightside Health appreciate the therapists’ knowledge and experience. However, some have found issues with the billing process, particularly with billing their insurance. For instance, a verified Trustpilot reviewer who goes by the username “MA” says their therapist has greatly helped them.
“She’s compassionate, reassuring, curious, thoughtful, and clearly experienced. Initially, I had an issue where my insurance wasn’t billed for the first two months, but customer service was responsive and helpful.”
“MA,” Trustpilot reviewer
Likewise, Amanda P., another verified Trustpilot reviewer, notes that she appreciates the company and her therapist’s help. “Brightside has significantly improved my quality of life and outlook on the future, and I cannot understate that. I am so grateful,” she writes.
However, some customers have experienced challenges, particularly with billing and customer service. For instance, Mike D., a verified Trustpilot reviewer, indicates that the communication regarding what he would be billed and what he was actually charged did not line up.
“I signed up with my insurance when I saw Brightside offered coverage with a $35 session copay and a $0/month member fee, [which] is stated right up front on my ‘Current Plan,’” he says. “Fast forward to today; I received an invoice for the past three months informing me I owe $748 [and] I have not had 21 sessions since January.”
Specs
| Session type | Individual |
| Price | $95-$349 month |
| Accepts insurance | Yes |
| Prescribes medication | Yes |
| Messaging available | Yes |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Best online therapy for anxiety with CBT: Online-therapy.com
Key product features
What you should know
Online-Therapy.com is an accessible online therapy program for anxiety that utilizes the gold standard in anxiety treatment—cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It also offers easy access to a therapist, including unlimited messaging, and is designed to help you learn how to manage your anxious thoughts and feelings.
- This online therapy program for anxiety contains several useful tools to deepen your experience, hold you accountable, and challenge you to grow along the way.
- Online-Therapy.com is an affordable option for online therapy for anxiety with a cost of just $50 per week or about $200 per month.
- People who want an affordable and accessible option for online therapy that uses CBT to address anxiety and stress-related issues will appreciate this online therapy program.
- Online-Therapy.com also offers anonymity for people who have privacy concerns or feel anonymous, allowing them to be more open, transparent, and authentic during their sessions.
Why we like Online-Therapy.com as best for CBT
When it comes to treating anxiety, CBT is the gold standard of treatment for anxiety and stress-related disorders. Through the use of tools and techniques that target unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, people can address the areas of their lives that are perpetuating their anxiety. (5) Online-Therapy.com is based solely on CBT in its approach to helping people learn to cope with and manage their anxiety.
“CBT helps individuals learn to connect their unhelpful thoughts with cognitive distortions, which are influenced by emotions and not logic. Being able to identify faulty thought patterns challenges your ways of thinking and explores how to reframe thoughts and experiences.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
We especially appreciate its expansive set of complementary tools for helping you manage your anxiety between your live sessions with a therapist. For instance, the company provides an activity planner, which can be helpful for goal setting and scheduling activities that can help you learn new ways to deal with and overcome your anxiety. Then, you can record your experiences each day—including what worked and what didn’t—in the provided journal. These features also can be useful in holding yourself accountable along the way.
There also are tutorials (or “sections”) that educate you about anxiety and worksheets that challenge you to work through different scenarios. You will even find a yoga option to help you focus on relaxation and the practice of mindfulness. (6) As an added bonus, there is an unlimited therapist messaging option that you can use between sessions if you have questions or need additional support.
We also appreciate that Online-Therapy.com also allows for anonymity—a big plus for people who struggle with social anxiety or are concerned about privacy. You can work with your therapist via video, voice only, or even text chat. Plus, you can choose a nickname for your screen name without using your real name. However, for your protection, your identity will be available through the emergency contact portion of your profile.
The only downside to this platform is that it doesn’t accept insurance, so if your insurance covers therapy, this online therapy option may not be right for you. Additionally, its refund policy seems a little strict, making it hard for people who are on a budget and aren’t sure the platform is right for them. While we love all of the extras it provides, this could be overwhelming for some people with anxiety, giving them one more thing to worry about.
Read our full Online-Therapy.com review for more information.
Specs
| Session type | Individual, Couples |
| Price | $50 per week ($200 monthly) |
| Accepts insurance | No (can submit to insurance on your own) |
| Prescribes medication | No |
| Messaging available | Yes |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Best online therapy for generalized anxiety disorder: BetterHelp
Key product features
What you should know
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform and the largest platform on our list, which means it is not at a loss when it comes to providing access to well-educated and knowledgeable therapists. It also offers anonymity and flexibility when it comes to communicating with your therapist.
- Because BetterHelp offers several different therapy styles, it is well suited for those with generalized anxiety disorder, especially as a person’s needs change.
- BetterHelp doesn’t accept insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, and its services tend to be pricier, but it offers financial assistance to those who qualify.
- This well-designed online therapy platform has many therapists, making it a great one-stop solution for people who have become frustrated with finding a quality therapist.
- In addition to weekly therapy sessions, those who use BetterHelp also have access to free group sessions, which can be a great way to complement therapy and get additional insight into how best to manage anxiety.
Why we like BetterHelp as best for generalized anxiety disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common problem impacting several people each year. In fact, some researchers estimate that 19% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder every year. (1)
“Being able to address GAD symptoms and causes can help address other anxiety disorders in many cases, as it involves anxiety about a variety of different sources, unlike other disorders that focus on one source. For example, a specific phobia has a specific trigger that creates anxiety; GAD symptoms don’t generally have a specific trigger.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
It’s important to have a good resource for online therapy should you experience the excessive worry and rumination that often accompany GAD—we feel BetterHelp is well-equipped to help you manage this anxiety disorder. As the largest online therapy provider on our list, BetterHelp has a plethora of quality therapists and effective services to help people overcome the challenges anxiety presents. Plus, it offers a broad range of therapy types, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and more.
In addition, it offers worksheets to complement therapy and access to free group sessions. This type of collaboration can be a useful tool in helping people address their anxiety in meaningful ways. What’s more, therapist messaging is available between sessions should a problem or question arise that needs attention.
If your anxiety or concerns about meeting and sharing with people have prevented you from getting help in the past, you will appreciate its multiple communication options. With BetterHelp, we like the fact that you can get the help you need in the most comfortable format. You can communicate with your therapist via phone, text, chat, or video.
You can also remain anonymous. The form does not require you to use your real name or an identifying email. These features can make therapy more accessible for those whose anxiety keeps them from reaching out to others.
We just wish scheduling and connectivity were not such an issue for some people. We feel like an online platform of its size should be better equipped to deal with a crisis if one occurs.
Check out our full BetterHelp review for more information.
What customers are saying
Those who have used BetterHelp appreciate the vast network of therapists and the ability to find one well-suited to their needs. They also like the fact that they can get counseling and guidance from the comfort of their own homes and note that the therapists are knowledgeable, compassionate, and well-educated.
“BetterHelp was at the right time and place for me. I was going through many life changes and needed someone to listen, validate, and help me navigate these changes. BetterHelp has a list of therapists, and after choosing one, I can find the schedule that matches mine. A perfect combination of therapist and technology.”
Jewel J., Trustpilot reviewer
Likewise, verified Trustpilot reviewer Beth appreciates the platform’s ease of use and privacy features. “BetterHelp has been fantastic with the ease of connecting with them virtually. I feel there’s more privacy, and it’s easier to communicate. The one complaint is that they do not accept insurance. If they accept that, this will become a game changer.”
Meanwhile, some people have had issues with scheduling. A verified Trustpilot reviewer, who goes by the username “Anonymous,” indicates that scheduling can be challenging and would prefer if the company offered more flexibility and planning features.
“You cannot schedule more than one appointment at a time with your therapist, which sometimes is stifling for me, who lives by a schedule,” they write. “So I don’t always get to maximize enough therapy sessions for the month.”
Specs
| Session type | Individual, Couple, Teens |
| Price | $70-$100 per week |
| Accepts insurance | No |
| Prescribes medication | No |
| Messaging available | Yes |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Most comprehensive online therapy for anxiety: Talkspace
Key product features
What you should know
Talkspace is a comprehensive online therapy platform that offers users access to a large database of therapists with various specialties. Not only are its therapists licensed to treat a vast number of conditions, but it also offers services for people groups that are often ignored or overlooked, such as veterans and LGBTQIA+ people.
- This online therapy platform offers psychiatric services, and medication management, and treats more than 150 different conditions.
- Although Talkspace accepts insurance, it offers an average entry-level price, starting at $69 per week, for those without either option.
- This platform is ideal for people who find it challenging to find a therapist familiar with their needs and conditions.
Why we like Talkspace as the most comprehensive
According to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, 47% of people in the U.S. in 2022 lived in an area with a shortage of mental health professionals, making it challenging not only to find a therapist but also someone who could treat their condition. (7) We feel Talkspace is filling that void with its comprehensive online platform.
Not only does it offer counseling services in every state in the nation, but it also has a large team of therapists from which people can choose. Additionally, Talkspace’s therapists are licensed to treat more than 150+ conditions, so finding a therapist who addresses your unique situation should not be an issue. As an added bonus, they can treat a variety of specific needs. Whether a person needs individual therapy, couples therapy, or a teen needing assistance, there will be someone who can help them. Talkspace also is equipped to treat veterans and people who identify as LGBTQIA+—two often overlooked people groups.
It also offers a wide range of therapy options through its monthly subscriptions, allowing you to choose the type and level of care you want. Plus, you will find video, audio, and messaging therapy options at different price points. We also appreciate that you can switch therapists relatively easily within the platform. If you don’t click with your first—or even second—therapist, you can switch to a new one that might be better suited for your personality and needs.
We wish Talkspace offered additional free services to complement its therapy options, such as worksheets, group sessions, or features in its app. These extras not only help people get the most from their therapy but can also make the financial commitment feel a little more tolerable.
To learn more about how Talkspace, check out our Talkspace review.
What customers are saying
Finding the right match is always important for online therapy for anxiety, and reviewers have mentioned that Talkspace really comes through in that area. For instance, a verified Trustpilot reviewer, Matthew, notes that the platform matched him with a therapist who helped him grow and make the needed changes.
“I spent months trying to find a therapist in person in my city and was never able to find a therapist who had availability. I tried Talkspace, and I was instantly matched with a therapist. Luckily enough, she was a great fit right away. I have seen her for four sessions now, and I feel like I’m making a lot of progress, and I plan to continue seeing her.”
Matthew, Trustpilot reviewer
Likewise, Nicole A., a verified Trustpilot reviewer, echoes Matthew’s sentiments. She finds the platform easy to use and connects easily with her therapist.
“I love everything about Talkspace,” she says. “…It was so easy to schedule calls and reschedule if something came up. I love that I can message my therapist, which is great if I’m struggling with something or need to bring her up to speed before my video session! This is a therapy that fits into my life with zero hassle.”
But the process has not been as seamless for others. In fact, the platform can be a little finicky and some users experience glitches here and there. For instance, a verified Trustpilot reviewer who goes by the username “Zero Space” notes that they received a message that there was an error in the matching system, and they were barred from seeing their therapist. Fortunately, they were able to connect with their therapist offsite.
“They need to fix whatever their platform issues are,” the reviewer says of Talkspace.
Specs
| Session type | Individual, Couple, Teen, Veteran, LGBTQIA+ |
| Price | $69-$109 per week |
| Accepts insurance | Yes |
| Prescribes medication | Yes |
| Messaging available | Yes |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Best teen online therapy for anxiety: Teen Counseling
Key product features
What you should know
Created for teens between the ages of 13 and 19, Teen Counseling is an online therapy platform that helps young people learn to manage and cope with anxiety. It also incorporates parents without compromising the teens’ privacy.
- Although some other online therapy platforms can accommodate teens, Teen Counseling takes it further by staffing its platform with counselors specifically trained to work with young people.
- Teen Counseling does not accept insurance and is somewhat more expensive than some other online therapy options, but it does offer financial assistance to those who qualify.
- Teens dealing with anxiety will appreciate the ease of use of the platform and the confidentiality that allows them to share their thoughts and feelings without having to leave their homes.
Why we like Teen Counseling as best for teens
When it comes to mood disorders like anxiety, teens are among the most at risk, and yet they often don’t get the therapy they need. In fact, young people between the ages of 10 and 24 are the least likely to receive therapy for their anxiety or depression. (8)
Johnson shares that in her community, there’s a shortage of therapists who work with youth. Additionally, preteens and teens may struggle to trust another adult with their concerns, and mental health needs aren’t expressed to parents. “Some teens and young adults lack reliable transportation to attend therapy in-person, and don’t always have a confidential space to meet in for virtual sessions,” she says.
However, interestingly, online therapy is something the majority would consider because of its ease of use, accessibility, and privacy. A study found that 72% of teens say they would use this type of therapy if they experienced a mental health problem. (9)
Teen Counseling fills an important need among young people. Not only does it provide online therapy for teens in a way that is preferable to them, but it also offers therapy options that are particularly geared toward their age group. Designed for teens between 13 and 19, Teen Counseling incorporates the parents into the counseling relationship. While parents do not meet with the counselor while the teen meets with them, they can arrange to meet separately.
Conversely, teens can rest assured that the information they share with their therapist is private. Nothing is shared with the parent except what is agreed upon ahead of time—unless, of course, the teen threatens to harm themselves or someone else.
Overall, Teen Counseling is a great option for teens who don’t want the stress of attending in-person visits. But, we wish the sessions were longer and provided more extras like some other online therapy platforms. The fees can also be a little steep for families, especially since it does not accept insurance.
What customers are saying
Overall, people who have used Teen Counseling appreciate the flexibility and accessibility of the platform. They also like that the online therapy is geared specifically toward teens. In fact, a verified Trustpilot reviewer who goes by ML says that they have had a positive experience with the therapy experience.
“Teen Counseling has been amazing,” they say. “It meets kids where they are [and] how they communicate via phone. This makes therapy more accessible and less intimidating than going into an office. We loved our therapist, who gave us actionable items straight away. I was totally impressed.”
Likewise, people appreciate that Teen Counseling can fill a need when no in-person therapists are in the area. A Trustpilot reviewer who goes by “SH” says that after having trouble finding a therapist in their community, they looked into Teen Counseling.
“The process of signing up and getting matched to a counselor went very smoothly, and the counselor match seems perfect for my son. He looks forward to the weekly virtual session and checks his email daily to see if the counselor has sent a message. I can see that his mood has been more upbeat since the beginning. The counselor honors their confidentiality, so it’s up to my son to tell me what they discuss if he wants to share it with me.”
“SH”, Trustpilot reviewer
Others, though, have struggled to fit in their therapy appointments. For instance, a verified Trustpilot reviewer, India, says they were five days into their unlimited access plan and still unable to schedule the first appointment. “The site promises they work within your schedule, but that is not true; you work within the schedule of the therapist in a different time zone.”
Specs
| Session type | Individual, Teen |
| Price | $65-$90 per week |
| Accepts insurance | No |
| Prescribes medication | No |
| Messaging available | Yes |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Best postpartum online therapy for anxiety: Hers
Key product features
What you should know
Hers is a telehealth company offering online therapy and psychiatry. It also offers medications for sexual health, dermatology, and hair loss.
- Hers also offers anti-anxiety medications alongside therapy for females who are struggling with various mood disorders, including postpartum anxiety.
- Though the $90 cost per session is higher than most, Hers doesn’t require a subscription, so you can pay as you go.
- Because Hers online therapy is a female-centered platform, women can rest assured that the therapists are well-trained and knowledgeable about female-specific health concerns like postpartum anxiety.
Why we like Hers as best for postpartum
Most people are aware of postpartum depression, but postpartum anxiety, which is a much less talked about condition, also occurs frequently after the birth of a baby. In fact, a 2013 study found that postpartum anxiety rate is around 17% among new moms, and depression rates are around 6%. (10)
Finding online therapy for depression postpartum anxiety can be challenging, especially with a new baby at home. Fortunately, Hers offers an online therapy option to help women get the care they deserve without having to leave home. Plus, it is a women-centered option equipped with therapists who are trained to help with women’s issues, particularly postpartum mood disorders.
As an added bonus, Hers also provides psychiatric medications, sexual health, and dermatology prescriptions for those who need them. Plus, its pricing plan for therapy—though on the high end at $90 per session—is straightforward. You only have to pay per session and are not required to sign up for a subscription or make an ongoing commitment. This is a great feature for busy parents who aren’t sure when they can fit in a therapy session from one day to the next.
We also appreciate the ease of scheduling and matching with a therapist, but getting to that point is challenging. The company does not make its therapy options as easily accessible as its prescriptions, which is disappointing that it appears to have a medication-first approach. We also wish it offered messaging services—but with a pay-as-a-go plan, it doesn’t make much sense for the company to provide that service. It’s also disappointing that it doesn’t have a sliding fee scale for therapy appointments—this means its services may become inaccessible for some people.
Check out our full Hers mental health review for more information about their online therapy platform.
Specs
| Session type | Individual |
| Price | $90 per session |
| Accepts insurance | No |
| Prescribes medication | Yes |
| Messaging available | No |
| Mobile accessibility | Unknown |
Best online therapy for anxiety without insurance: Open Path Collective
Key product features
What you should know
Open Path Collective is a nonprofit that offers affordable online therapy to the uninsured or underinsured. According to the company, the therapists participate voluntarily because they want to help fill a need in their communities and ensure that mental health services are accessible—even for those with limited financial means.
- Open Path Collective has a large database of therapists with several filters, making your search for the right therapist less time-consuming and cumbersome.
- Therapists affiliated with Open Path Collective offer their services on a sliding fee scale, ranging from about $40 to $70 per session. You can also see a student intern for $30 per session.
- Open Path Collective is designed for people who make less than $100,000 annually and do not have insurance coverage for mental health services.
Why we like Open Path Collective as best without insurance
When it comes to finding online therapy for anxiety, there are several potential barriers, including everything from lack of insurance and affordability to stigmas and workforce shortages. (11) However, Open Path Collective is a nonprofit that is working to address those issues and improve the accessibility to mental health services for people who are uninsured, underinsured, and making less than $100,000 per year.
Most therapists in the group offer therapy on a sliding fee scale of $40 to $70 per session for people who have trouble affording therapy. Plus, there is an extensive directory of therapists and a solid filtering system, so you’re not overwhelmed by the number of therapists you can see. It also means you can narrow your search and, more likely, find a better match.
We also appreciate that many of the therapists offer online and in-person sessions. So, if you suddenly decide you might benefit from in-person therapy, there are options for you. We do wish it offered messaging between you and your therapist, but because you are only paying per session, this would likely not be cost-effective for the nonprofit or the therapist.
There also is a $65 lifetime membership fee that you need to plan for, which means your membership fee and your first therapy session might be a little more than you expected. The organization indicates that this fee helps them keep their small nonprofit running, so we are not too bothered by it. However, it is still something that could stretch someone financially, especially when funds are limited.
We also noticed that the organization has little oversight. Once you connect with a therapist, Open Path has no ongoing role in the relationship. Your fees, schedule, and communications are all between you and the therapist. If you run into an issue—like someone asking you to pay for multiple sessions in advance—it’s suggested you reach out to Open Path. Other than that, online therapy functions much like getting a therapist through the traditional route.
Specs
| Session type | Individual, Couples, Family |
| Price | $40+ per session |
| Accepts insurance | No |
| Prescribes medication | No |
| Messaging available | No |
| Mobile accessibility | Unknown |
Best online therapy for anxiety for kids: LiveHealth Online
Key product features
What you should know
LiveHealth Online is an online therapy platform that offers therapy for a variety of anxiety issues and disorders to adults and children ages 10 and older. It also offers psychiatric care when needed or if medication might be warranted— but this is for adults only.
- LiveHealth Online offers both online therapy and medical services, which makes it a great one-stop option for busy parents looking to streamline their child’s health and mental health care.
- This online therapy platform accepts insurance but also offers the option to self-pay per session at $85-$100. There are no subscriptions, and sign up is free, which is a great option when you have kids who may not be committed to therapy.
- LiveHealth is great for parents who are looking for online therapy for their children’s anxiety.
Why we like LiveHealth Online as the best for kids
LiveHealth online is a unique online therapy provider that offers therapy for a variety of anxiety-related issues as well as medical services for acute medical issues. It also offers a blend of therapy settings and psychiatric care for those who might need medication.
But what sets them apart from other online therapy platforms is that it offers therapy for kids 10 and older who might be struggling with anxiety. So, if you have a child who has an anxiety disorder or they are having panic attacks, you could utilize LiveHealth to find a therapist for them.
You also can use LiveHealth Online’s medical services. If they have a sore throat, a fever, or other mild symptoms of an illness, you can make an appointment with one of the healthcare providers to have them evaluated.
We also appreciate LiveHealth’s approach to payment. Not only can you pay per visit—a great option for parents of kids who may not like the subscription-only setup for therapy—but it also does not have a signup fee or a subscription requirement. You can simply pay for visits as you have them.
That said, this single session fee likely is why LiveHealth does not offer messaging for its therapists. We also wish it offered psychiatric services for kids who may need medication for their anxiety or features like worksheets or quizzes to complement the therapy.
To discover more options, visit our guide on the best online therapy for kids.
Specs
| Session type | Individuals, Kids (10-17), Couples, Family |
| Price | $85 to $100 per visit |
| Accepts insurance | Yes |
| Prescribes medication | Yes |
| Messaging available | No |
| Mobile accessibility | Yes |
Best online therapy for anxiety for parents: Regain
Key product features
What you should know
Parenting as a couple can be challenging and drive a wedge between you if you’re not on the same page. But Regain offers a solid online therapy option to help you get back on track.
- Through the help of licensed therapists, couples can work on addressing issues in their relationship in a safe and supportive environment where they’ll not only feel heard and validated but also learn what they can change to come to an agreement as a couple and learn to parent as one instead of as separate entities.
- Regain doesn’t accept insurance but offers therapy sessions at a reasonable starting price of $65 per session. That said, it requires its clients to pay in advance, which can be challenging for those on a tight budget.
- Those seeking effective couples therapy to address their relationship issues and define their parenting strategies will appreciate the platform’s therapists’ knowledge and expertise.
Why we like Regain as best for parents
Parenting can take a toll on a relationship–especially if you don’t agree on how to parent, aren’t in alignment on the distribution of parenting duties or have put the kids before your partner. Not only can these scenarios potentially create distance and resentment between partners, but they also can cause a great deal of anxiety.
“In research, a connection has been made between having different parenting styles and increased marital stress,” Johnson says. “For example, if one parent adheres to an authoritarian parenting style and the other parent is passive, marital challenges increase significantly. It’s essential to be on the same page while parenting to support the relationship.” (12)
Anxiety also can creep into a relationship if you have a baby or child with special needs or a chronic health condition. In these situations, as well as the scenarios mentioned earlier, you need a couples counseling option that will meet you where you’re at and help you get where you want to be, and we feel Regain’s online therapy platform fits the bill.
Facilitated by licensed therapists, Regain offers convenient and affordable relationship therapy to couples needing extra help. Moreover, you don’t have to attend the sessions together if one partner is more reluctant to participate in therapy. Counselors will meet with individuals or couples—and you don’t have to be in the same place. You can join the therapy session from anywhere if you have a mobile device and internet access. This is a great option for parents with busy schedules.
That said, some users have experienced challenges getting scheduled, which can be frustrating if you have paid in advance. Some people have noted that you cannot book your sessions ahead, which makes coordinating schedules a little more challenging. Plus, the session rate is the same whether an individual or a couple attends. There also are not a lot of extra features with this online therapy option. Aside from messaging capabilities, there are no extra tools to help hold you accountable.
Check out our full Regain review for more information.
What customers are saying
Most people who have used Regain are happy with the results and report relationship improvements. For instance, Natalya, a verified Trustpilot reviewer, notes that despite hitting a rough patch in her marriage, she was connected with a patient and caring therapist through Regain’s online therapy platform, who helped her learn to communicate better, appreciate each other more, and reconnect at a deeper level.
“We were able to reignite our passion for each other as we did when we first met. We cannot thank [our therapist] enough.”
Natalya, Trustpilot reviewer
Meanwhile, Gritiana, another Trustpilot verified reviewer, and her partner had a similar experience. She indicates that their therapist was incredibly supportive and compassionate. “Without a doubt, she has played an instrumental role in saving and enriching my partner’s and my relationship. I cannot express enough appreciation for her dedication and her positive impact on our lives.”
Despite these positive outcomes, the scheduling process for Regain is prone to a few hiccups.
Several Trustpilot reviewers have noted challenges getting scheduled for therapy sessions—despite being charged for the sessions in advance. Ted, a verified Trustpilot reviewer, notes that he and his wife had trouble scheduling with a therapist due to time zone issues. He was also frustrated that despite paying a month in advance, he could not book his sessions in advance. Instead, he was required to book them one at a time.
Specs
| Session Type | Individual, Couples |
| Price | $65-$90 per week |
| Accepts Insurance | No |
| Prescribes Medication | No |
| Messaging Available | Yes |
| Mobile Accessibility | Yes |
Best online therapy for anxiety for group support: Mindful Care
Key product features
What you should know
Mindful Care is a psychiatric-based online platform that offers several group therapy sessions. It even offers a free support group to discuss current events and their impact.
- This online therapy platform offers a variety of psychiatric care options, including medication management, MicroTherapy™, addiction recovery, group therapy, and more.
- Mindful Care accepts insurance and offers a self-pay option, which includes $150 for an assessment and $35 for each group attendance. You can also get 20 and 40-minute individual sessions for $50 to $100.
- Mindful Care’s online therapy is ideal for those who are looking for an affordable way to address their anxiety and appreciate the atmosphere of a group setting.
Why we like Mindful Care as best for group support
There are times when group therapy for anxiety can be as effective as individual therapy, and this is the premise behind Mindful Care’s group therapy model. (13) Known as CALM, their group for anxiety combines mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy to help people learn to identify and manage their anxiety—all in a virtual setting.
The idea is that the shared experiences that occur during group therapy promote healing, build support, and offer encouragement. Moreover, people realize they are not alone in their struggles and that others are experiencing the same thing. This realization can empower people and provide the boost they need to make changes and improve their quality of life.
We also appreciate that this platform offers a free support group for current events. This group is geared toward building inclusiveness and community and allowing people to learn from others as they discuss current events and their impact. Their MicroTherapy™ sessions, which are 20-minute therapy sessions, are also intriguing.
Not only are they laser-focused, but they also fit seamlessly into busy schedules. We just wish the therapy sessions were provided by therapists rather than psychiatric nurses. This approach gives the therapy a more clinical or medical undertone than traditional therapy settings.
We also find their price structure confusing and not very transparent. Before signing up, it may be worth it to ensure that your insurance covers the group therapy sessions.
Specs
| Session Type | Individual, Group |
| Price | $35-$100 |
| Accepts Insurance | Yes |
| Prescribes Medication | Yes |
| Messaging Available | No |
| Mobile Accessibility | Not listed |
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress that can range from mild to severe. Some people equate feeling anxious with feeling nervous, fearful, or uneasy. It’s normal to feel anxious before a job interview, when meeting new people, or when making big decisions, especially because these feelings of unease are usually temporary.
But there are times when anxiety can be overwhelming and interfere with your day-to-day life. When this occurs, you may have trouble coping with your feelings and thoughts as well as the physical sensations that sometimes accompany anxiety, like your heart rate and blood pressure. (14)
“When worry becomes excessive, it may be a sign of needing to pursue additional support,” Johnson says.
Keep in mind that everyone experiences anxiety differently, but some physical symptoms of anxiety may include (15):
- Heart racing
- Increased sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Tingling sensations
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Body aches
- Panic attacks
Many people experience emotional responses to anxiety, such as feeling (15):
- Restless
- Worry
- On-edge
- Overwhelm
- Irritable
- Fearful
- Uneasy
- Self-conscious
Similar to the symptoms of anxiety, the causes of anxiety can vary for everyone. Potential risk factors may be environmental and genetic, including experiences of distress or nervousness in new situations during childhood, exposure to a stressful environment or events, and a family history of anxiety or mental health issues. (15)
What type of online therapy is best for anxiety?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective way to treat anxiety. In fact, some experts consider CBT the gold standard of treatment. When someone receives therapy using CBT techniques, they will learn how to identify and manage their anxiety. Ultimately, the goal of CBT is to help people reduce their symptoms and start participating in activities they avoided due to anxiety. (5)
While some experts consider CBT the gold standard of treatment, there are other effective treatments for anxiety. These treatments include:
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is talk therapy that focuses on accepting thoughts and emotions as appropriate responses to specific situations instead of avoiding or denying them. (16)
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a form of talk therapy based on CBT but modified for people experiencing intense emotions. DBT focuses on emotional regulation, tolerating negative emotions, and healthy coping skills. (17)
- Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a talk therapy that helps manage thoughts and emotions in the present moment. Mindfulness practices include breathing exercises, meditation, and awareness of the present moment. (18)
- Exposure therapy helps reduce fear or avoidance of situations, activities, or things that cause fear or anxiety by confronting them in a safe, controlled environment with a therapist. (19)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy focuses on processing past traumatic memories that cause stress and anxiety. When undergoing EMDR, patients focus on a traumatic memory while a therapist guides their eye movement. (20) This helps reduce the vividness and emotional response to the trauma memory. EMDR was originally developed to help treat to help treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). (21)
Can an online therapist prescribe anxiety medication?
Some online therapists can prescribe medication for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. However, some online therapy platforms may restrict what they can prescribe and to whom they can prescribe it.
If you need medication for your anxiety and want to get it through an online source, check with the platform before signing up for therapy.
It may be more beneficial to meet with a healthcare provider first before getting medication to treat anxiety online. This way, they can determine if your anxiety symptoms may be caused by an underlying medical condition.
How to choose the best online therapy for anxiety
When deciding on an online therapy platform for anxiety, there are several things to consider. Here’s a brief overview of what you should consider before joining a platform.
- Scheduling: One of the benefits of online therapy is that it tends to offer more flexibility when it comes to scheduling. If you have limited time for therapy, you want to ensure that the platform meets your needs before signing up.
- Price and insurance: Pricing for online therapy can run the gamut. Some platforms accept insurance, while others do not. Some platforms offer a sliding fee scale. Find out the cost of the service before signing up, including whether or not your insurance will cover it. And while many platforms will offer to check your insurance coverage for you, it’s always best to have this conversation with your insurance company.
- Location: When using online therapy, you want to be sure the platform has therapists in your state. The therapist you use must be licensed in the state you’re located in, even when using the internet. (22)
- Method of communication: Different platforms offer different ways of communicating with your therapist. For instance, some offer live chat, text messaging, and phone and video calls. If you prefer one method over another, ensure the platform offers it before joining.
- Extra features: If there are certain features you think would be beneficial, like assessments, online tools, or unlimited messaging, make sure the platform offers those before you sign up.
Cancellation policies: Make sure you know the online therapy platform’s cancellation policy, how they handle refunds, and how you terminate your service. If you don’t like the platform or are not getting anything from it, it’s important to know what to expect and how to terminate your subscription.
Who should try online therapy for anxiety?
There are several benefits to utilizing online therapy for anxiety. Not only is it just as effective as in-person therapy, but it also can be more convenient, easier to access, and less anxiety-provoking than meeting with someone in person. (23) Online therapy is particularly well-suited for people who struggle with anxiety or have anxiety disorders, don’t drive, have no access to transportation, or live in a remote area.
It also is ideal for those looking for more affordable options, flexibility in scheduling, and a larger pool of therapists. Plus, online therapy removes some of the pressure and anxiety that often keep people from getting help. Some platforms allow you to be anonymous, while others allow you to simply text or chat with your therapist if talking to another person is particularly scary or anxiety-inducing for you.
Who should not try online therapy for anxiety?
While online therapy is a helpful, accessible tool to help manage and treat anxiety, it’s not right for everyone. In-person support is more beneficial for people in a crisis or if anxiety is so debilitating that it affects day-to-day life. Those with severe mental health conditions or addictions might find other forms of therapy more effective. Online therapy for anxiety might not be suitable for individuals who:
- Are experiencing severe or complex mental health conditions such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, which may require in-person, intensive treatment or medication management.
- Are in a crisis or having suicidal thoughts
- Lack access to private, secure, and stable internet connetion for reliable communication
- Prefer or require face-to-face intersection for a more effective and comforting treatment.
Online therapy may also not benefit people with anxiety who have trouble communicating via technology or do not have the right tools to use the platform.
What if I’m having thoughts of harming myself?
If you’re considering harming yourself, it’s important to reach out for help right away. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support from a trained counselor. If you are in immediate danger, call 988 right away. You can even call 911 if you want. The key is that you talk to someone about how you are feeling.
Also, remember that you’re not alone. Some people care about you and want to help you. The important thing is that you get help before making a choice you cannot undo. No matter how hopeless your situation feels, with time and support, you can learn to overcome your problems and address your pain. Doing so will allow your suicidal feelings to dissipate.
FAQs
Does online therapy work for anxiety?
Studies have shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy when treating anxiety. A recent meta-analysis found that online therapy was able to not only reduce anxiety and worry but maintain those results at follow-up appointments. (15) Plus, online therapy offers less anxiety-provoking sessions, which can be done via video, online workshops, text messaging, or audio-only sessions. That said, some therapists are concerned that it may be difficult to develop a rapport when the therapy sessions are not face-to-face.
What are symptoms of anxiety?
Everyone experiences anxiety in different ways. But some symptoms are more common than others. For instance, some people notice their heart racing, increased perspiration, more rapid breathing, and tingling sensations. If you are experiencing anxiety, you might also feel: (16)
- Restless
- On-edge
- Overwhelmed
- Worried
- Irritable
- Nauseous
- Fearful
- Uneasy
- Self-conscious
What is the most successful treatment for anxiety?
Research supports cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as an effective treatment for anxiety. CBT encourages you to identify and manage anxiety by understanding and changing your thinking and behavioral patterns (25). Many online therapy platforms use CBT to help patients manage and treat their anxiety.
Other treatments to help manage anxiety include acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and medication.
What are the limitations of online therapy?
Online therapy may feel impersonal for some who find it difficult to emotionally connect with a remote therapist. There’s also the risk of encountering unqualified therapists, which is why it’s crucial to use a trusted, vetted online therapy platform. Some users may have technical or connectivity issues that make it challenging to use an online platform.
Online therapy isn’t recommended for those with debilitating anxiety, severe mental health conditions, addictions, or suicidal thoughts. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support from a trained counselor. If you’re in immediate danger, call 988 right away.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy for anxiety?
Our experts
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC, is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Kansas. She owns a private practice specializing in anxiety treatment and social skills development. Rychel also enjoys extensive road trips and spending time with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Sherri M. Gordon, CLC
Fortune Recommends Health Writer
About Author
Sherri M. Gordon, CLC is a health writer, certified life coach, and author of more than 30 books for young readers. With more than 20 years of experience covering health and social issues, Sherri is well versed in health conditions, mental health concerns, sleep, aging, parenting, and more. Her work has been featured in Health, Parents, Verywell Health, Columbus Parent, Home Living, and more. She also has earned a Certificate of Completion from Ohio State’s Patient and Community Peer Review Academy, where she frequently serves as a community reviewer for grant requests for health research.