Written by Brooke Helton, Fortune Recommends Writer
People of all ages can use therapy to improve their mental health. In fact, some evidence indicates that adults age 65 and older may be more likely to benefit from psychotherapy than younger adults—especially for anxiety disorders. (1) But if you can’t attend in-person therapy sessions for any reason, online therapy may be a viable solution to get the help you need at home. “When an in-person connection is not an option, virtual therapy is a great alternative,” said Lindsay Jernigan, a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in South Burlington, Vermont. “For many, online therapy is more accessible and cost-effective. It allows people to get the help they need in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. Many online therapy platforms build in support for clients to access between sessions like worksheets, journaling, and even group classes,” adds Geralyn Dexter, a licensed mental health counselor.
Two of the most popular online therapy services are BetterHelp and Talkspace. While both platforms offer online sessions with licensed therapists, their overall features vary. Discover how these two platforms compare below, along with firsthand experience from our Reviews Team.
Key product features
What you should know
- Talkspace is an online therapy platform that allows users to connect with therapists via video chat, phone, or text.
- The teletherapy service offers various subscription tiers, ranging from messaging-only options to weekly live sessions and group workshops.
- You can access Talkspace from your desktop, web browser, or the mobile app.
- Beyond offering online therapy services, Talkspace also offers psychiatry services for mental health assessments and prescriptions.
How does Talkspace work?
When signing up for Talkspace, you can connect with your insurance or pay directly. The platform accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal.
After securing your payment method, you’ll fill out a basic questionnaire addressing your areas of concern, such as anxiety or grief counseling. You can also specify any preferences for your therapist, such as their gender or religious affiliation.
Based on your answers, Talkspace will suggest three potential therapist options for you. Our tester changed their therapist multiple times to find one with better availability for their schedule.
“Each provider had a video introduction stating their approach and how they’d like to help. It was pretty effective!”
Team Product tester
All Talkspace therapy subscriptions have access to a private chatroom where you can message your provider anytime. Talkspace explains that your therapist will respond at least once during their working hours five days per week. Our tester found responsiveness varied between individual therapists.
Some Talkspace subscriptions also offer access to weekly live sessions with your therapist. These sessions last for 30 minutes, with their availability depending on your therapist’s schedule. All your live interactions are hosted directly on Talkspace and encrypted and HIPAA-compliant for privacy.
Live video therapy sessions
Talkspace offers video chat sessions you can access via your browser or the mobile app. Our tester experienced technical difficulties when trying to join their first session via the web browser and instead needed to use the mobile app.
Live audio sessions
If you’d prefer not to be on camera, Talkspace offers audio-only live sessions.
According to the American Psychological Association, phone therapy can be an effective mode of treatment for many people. (2) Although, it may come with some drawbacks. For example, your therapist won’t be able to pick up on emotional cues from your body language, and it may take longer to build trust. On the other hand, Dexter mentions some benefits. “Phone sessions can help reduce some of the stigma or shame about starting therapy and make it easier to keep up with sessions due to convenience,” she shares.
Live chat sessions
Talkspace also offers the ability to schedule live chat sessions with your therapist. Note that live chat sessions differ from unlimited messaging. Instead of directly messaging your therapist and waiting for a response on their own time, you’ll both engage in a live chat session for real-time responses.
There’s not a lot of research on the effectiveness of text-only therapy sessions. (3) According to Jernigan, text-only support is better than none. “If you already have an established relationship with a therapist, that could make these other avenues more effective than they might be otherwise,” she says.
Group workshops
Talkspace’s most expensive therapy tier offers access to one weekly live workshop. Workshops last one hour and are guided by a therapist or counselor. Typically, the host gives a lecture, offers information and exercises, and then accepts questions from viewers.
Topics vary weekly, but previous workshops have included topics such as:
- Making mindfulness easy
- Understanding your triggers
- Controlling your anger
- Preparing for hard conversations
- Communication styles
- Managing your anxiety
Couple therapy sessions
If you’re interested in relationship counseling, you can sign up for couples sessions with your partner. Talkspace’s couple counseling subscription comes with the same services as individual counseling, which includes live sessions and unlimited messaging.
You and your partner can participate using the same device or connect with your own devices. You can even join from different remote locations.
Who is Talkspace right for?
Online therapy may benefit people who lack access to traditional therapy services or have mobility limitations. (4) Online therapy may offer a “sense of privacy and comfort, especially for individuals who may feel embarrassed or hesitant about seeking therapy in person,” said Gary Tucker, licensed psychotherapist with D’Amore Mental Health.
Since Talkspace is entirely online, you won’t need to worry about leaving the house or being spotted at a therapist’s office. It’s even available to people who live or travel outside the U.S.
If you need help paying for therapy, Talkspace also accepts specific insurance plans and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
For more information, check out our full Talkspace review.
Who should seek an alternative to Talkspace?
Talkspace may not be suitable for everyone seeking online therapy. For example, more complex mental health issues may require the nuance and immediacy of in-person therapy, according to Tucker. Dexter adds that people experiencing a crisis or acute issues, like suicidal thoughts or behaviors, thoughts of harming others, psychosis, or dissociation, should seek immediate or in-person care.
Additionally, while Talkspace accepts some insurance plans, the company doesn’t offer discounts or financial aid to certain people, like older adults or military personnel. So, if your insurance plan isn’t accepted and you still can’t afford therapy, an option with direct financial aid may better suit your needs.
How therapists are onboarded
At Talkspace, the onboarding process for therapists is designed to be thorough and supportive, ensuring that both full-time and part-time providers are well-prepared to deliver high-quality care to clients. Here’s how the process works:
- Application and screening:
- Full-time roles: Therapists applying for full-time National Practice Provider positions undergo a more traditional hiring process. This includes submitting an application, followed by a phone screen and two video interviews. The video interviews consist of a clinical interview to assess therapeutic skills and a culture interview to ensure a good fit with Talkspace’s values and environment.
- Part-time roles: Independent contractors have a simpler onboarding process. They apply to the Talkspace careers website, focusing on their qualifications and experience. No formal interviews are required, streamlining the entry process for those looking for flexible, part-time work.
- Credential verification: Once an application is submitted, Talkspace thoroughly verifies the therapist’s credentials, ensuring they meet all state licensure requirements and have the experience to serve clients effectively. This step is crucial for both full-time and part-time roles to maintain the platform’s high standards of care.
- Training and onboarding: New therapists are introduced to Talkspace’s platform after acceptance. They receive training on how to use the secure, HIPAA-compliant app for virtual therapy sessions, including both asynchronous messaging and live video sessions.
- Role assignment and support:
- Full-time therapists: These therapists, who are part of a smaller, salaried network, are provided with a comprehensive benefits package and a structured support system. They have access to clinical oversight, peer-to-peer mentorship, and a community of fellow therapists for guidance.
- Part-time therapists: Independent contractors can choose their hours and the number of clients they see. They are compensated fee-for-service, with competitive pay and potential monthly bonuses. Support is also available, though the structure is more flexible than the full-time network.
- Client matching: Talkspace handles client acquisition and matches therapists with clients based on their state of licensure and areas of expertise. This allows therapists to focus on providing care rather than managing administrative tasks.
How many therapists are on the platform
We asked Talkspace how many therapists were on the platform. The exact number is subject to change as the platform continues to grow, but as of September 2024, it has over 5,500 therapists.
Onboarding new users
Onboarding new users on Talkspace involves several key steps to ensure that users can easily access therapy services and get matched with the right therapist. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
- Sign-up and account creation: New users start by visiting the Talkspace website or downloading the Talkspace app on their mobile device. Users are then prompted to create an account by providing basic information such as their name, email address, and password. This step establishes their user profile within the platform.
- Initial assessment and questionnaire: Users complete a brief questionnaire to help Talkspace understand their therapy needs. This may include questions about their mental health concerns, therapy goals, preferences for a male or female therapist, and any specific areas of focus (e.g., anxiety, depression, relationships). Based on the user’s needs, they select a therapy plan that suits them. Talkspace offers different plans, including messaging therapy, live video sessions, or a combination. Each plan has varying levels of engagement and pricing.
- Matching with a therapist: Talkspace uses an algorithm to match users with licensed therapists based on their preferences, location, and the therapist’s expertise. The platform presents users with a list of potential therapists who meet their criteria. Users can review the profiles of the suggested therapists, including their bios, specialties, and approaches to therapy. They can then choose the therapist they feel most comfortable with.
- Introduction to the platform: Once matched, users receive onboarding materials that explain how to use the platform, including how to send messages, schedule live sessions, and manage their accounts. Users typically begin by sending an initial message to their therapist to introduce themselves and share more about their therapy goals. This initial interaction helps establish the therapeutic relationship.
How are new users matched with a therapist?
Matching new users with a therapist on Talkspace ensures that each individual is paired with a provider who best meets their specific needs and preferences. Here’s how the matching process works:
- Assessment of therapy needs and preferences: When new users sign up, they are asked to provide information about their desired focus areas for therapy. This could include specific mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other places where they are seeking support. Users are also asked about their gender preference for a therapist, which can help ensure they feel comfortable and supported in their sessions.
- Location and licensure considerations: The primary state of residence is crucial in matching. Talkspace ensures that users are matched with therapists licensed to practice in the user’s state of residence. For users who travel frequently or spend significant time in another state, Talkspace can match them with a therapist licensed in both states to accommodate their travel needs.
- Language preferences: If a user has a preferred language for therapy, Talkspace will attempt to match them with a therapist who can provide services in that language, subject to availability in the user’s state.
- Health plan coverage: The matching process also considers whether the user’s health plan covers the therapist. Talkspace ensures that the providers shown to the user are in-network and that their services will be covered according to their health benefits.
- Proprietary matching algorithm: Talkspace uses a proprietary matching algorithm that considers all of these factors to suggest the most suitable therapist options. This process typically takes about 48 hours on average. The algorithm is designed to provide a high level of compatibility between the user and the therapist, ensuring a good fit from the start of the therapy journey.
- Continuity of care: Once matched, users generally work with the same therapist throughout their therapy journey, which helps maintain continuity and stability in their care. If users wish to change therapists for any reason, they can do so easily without interrupting their care, following the instructions in Talkspace’s Change Provider guide.
- Special requests: If a user has a specific therapist in mind, they can request to be matched with that therapist by providing their first and last name through a support request. Talkspace will do its best to accommodate this request, although availability may be limited due to licensing requirements or health plan restrictions.
Types of counseling offered by Talkspace
Depending on your mental health concerns, you might prefer—or be recommended—more than one type of therapy. For example, people with anxiety and depression may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a therapy technique that involves changing thought and behavior patterns (5) and sometimes involves assignments like journaling or completing worksheets.
On the other hand, people with issues like obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder may benefit from an approach like exposure therapy. (6) This method involves gradually facing your fears and triggers while developing coping skills to manage distress.
Some of the therapy approaches Talkspace therapists can use include the following:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Emotionally-focused therapy (EFT)
- Exposure therapy
- Grief counseling
- Humanistic therapy
- Mentalization therapy
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Somatic therapy
- Talk therapy
Does Talkspace prescribe medication?
Yes, Talkspace psychiatrists can prescribe non-controlled medications, but you can’t fulfill the prescriptions directly through the platform. Instead, you can take your prescription to your pharmacy of choice.
Can I receive a mental health diagnosis through Talkspace?
Yes, you can get diagnosed through Talkspace’s psychiatry tier. Psychiatrists are medical doctors, which makes them qualified to diagnose mental health conditions.
How much does Talkspace cost?
Talkspace’s therapy services include the following:
- Messaging therapy: $69 per week, includes unlimited messaging with your therapist five days per week, but no live session.
- Video and Messaging Therapy: $99 per week, includes unlimited messaging and one weekly live session.
- Video and Messaging Therapy plus Workshops: $109 per week, includes unlimited messaging, one weekly live session, and access to one weekly live workshop.
If you subscribe to any of the above tiers, you can purchase additional live sessions as needed for $65. Subscriptions are billed every four weeks.
Couples therapy costs $436 monthly and includes unlimited messaging and four live sessions.
Talkspace’s psychology services are priced individually. An initial evaluation is $299, with follow-ups for $175 per session. New clients also have the option to purchase follow-up sessions in bundles for a discount. Bundles include the following options and prices:
- Initial consultation and one follow-up: $435
- Initial consultation and two follow-ups: $725
- Three follow-up sessions (no initial consultation): $475
- Six follow-up sessions (no initial consultation): $890
- Nine follow-up sessions (no initial consultation): $1,260
Does Talkspace take Medicare or insurance?
Yes, Talkspace accepts plans from health insurance companies like Aetna, Cigna, Optum, Regence, and more. Talkspace also accepts some traditional Medicare plans. Check with your insurance company first to ensure your plan covers online therapy.
Does Talkspace offer financial aid?
No, Talkspace doesn’t offer direct financial aid, but the platform does accept other forms of financial assistance, such as EAPs.
Specs
| Average copay | $30 |
| Private pay option | Yes |
| Medicare/Medicaid | No |
| Platforms | Desktop, iOS, Android |
| Modalities | Individual & couples |
| Ages | 13+ (teens and adults) |
Key product features
What you should know
- Subscriptions include access to a weekly live session via video, audio, or live chat.
- You can also message your therapist any time between sessions and enjoy other bonus features, like access to group sessions and a journal.
- BetterHelp specializes in individual therapy, but the company’s sister brand, ReGain, offers relationship and couples therapy.
How does BetterHelp work?
BetterHelp’s sign-up process is similar to Talkspace’s. You select your plan and fill out a questionnaire, which includes questions about your mental health concerns, therapist preferences, and therapist availability preferences, such as phone, video, or text chat.
Instead of choosing your therapist, BetterHelp will automatically match you with one. The process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. One of our testers matched with their therapist in less than two hours. If you don’t click with your therapist for any reason, you can also switch to a different one at any time.
After signing up for BetterHelp, you’ll get access to a virtual messaging room where you can message your therapist anytime. You can send a standard text message, attach audio and video messages, or even send images. Response times can vary between therapists.
BetterHelp also provides access to live sessions, which last between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on your therapist’s availability.
Live video therapy sessions
BetterHelp provides live video chat sessions that are available directly through the platform. Some research indicates that video teletherapy may be effective for conditions like anxiety and depression. (7)
Live phone sessions
BetterHelp offers audio-only therapy sessions as an alternative to video chat. However, one of our testers experienced technical issues when attempting to join a scheduled audio session, so the app redirected them to a video session instead.
Live chat sessions
You can also opt for a live chat session if you’re camera-shy. Similar to Talkspace, BetterHelp’s live chat sessions differ from messaging. You and your therapist will be added to a chatroom and receive instant responses during the session.
Group sessions
BetterHelp also provides access to weekly group sessions hosted via Zoom. You can access group sessions in addition to your individual therapy sessions or try them independently.
One of our testers noted that the group sessions feel more like webinars. The therapists mainly offer guidance and moderation, while participants are encouraged to share their thoughts. You can turn your camera on during the session or leave it off.
Schedules and topics vary, but some of the group sessions we saw during our testing included the following topics:
- Alcohol/drug addiction and recovery
- Men’s health support
- Women’s support
- Living and thriving with ADHD
- Veteran to veteran
- Suicide survivors support
One of our testers was particularly impressed by the support and sense of community they received from the group sessions. In fact, they even noted that it would influence their decision to choose BetterHelp over other online therapy services.
Other BetterHelp features
BetterHelp offers access to other miscellaneous therapy features, including an online journal widely used as a tool in managing mental illness. (8) You can write daily freeform entries or get started with a prompt. You can keep your entries to yourself or opt-in to share them with your therapist. You can also set up daily reminders to journal and have the ability to export your entries for offline use.
Additionally, your therapist may assign worksheets to help with your goals.
Who is BetterHelp right for?
Like Talkspace, BetterHelp is a great option for accessing therapy from anywhere with an internet connection. It can be a good option for people with mobility concerns, tight schedules, or anyone who can’t easily access an in-person therapist.
Group sessions are one of BetterHelp’s standout offerings if you want to connect with individuals with similar life experiences in a community environment.
Check out our full BetterHelp review for more information.
Who should seek an alternative to BetterHelp?
If you’re experiencing a more severe or complex mental health concern, seeking help from an in-person therapist may be a better option. BetterHelp doesn’t provide crisis intervention or court-ordered therapy sessions.
Additionally, BetterHelp doesn’t prescribe or manage medications. While BetterHelp offers its own financial aid, it doesn’t accept insurance plans or Medicare. If you depend on these options to finance your care, have a look at our favorite online therapy platforms that accept insurance.
How therapists are onboarded
BetterHelp provides high-quality mental health services by ensuring that only the most qualified and reliable therapists join the platform. The onboarding process is designed to be rigorous and thorough, ensuring that every therapist who becomes part of the BetterHelp network meets the high standards for professional care. Below is an overview of the steps involved in onboarding therapists to the platform:
- Licensure verification: Every therapist must submit a valid license and proof of identity as part of the application process. BetterHelp cross-checks this licensure information with the therapist’s respective state licensing board to ensure they are in good standing.
- Background checks: Therapists are required to undergo a comprehensive background report. Additionally, they are subject to periodic checks through the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) registry, which helps us maintain ongoing oversight of our providers’ professional standing.
- Case study assessment: To further evaluate their clinical skills, applicants must complete a case study. This case study is reviewed and graded by a licensed clinician to assess their ability to handle complex therapeutic scenarios effectively.
- Selective acceptance: Due to the stringent nature of the screening process, less than one-third of applicants who apply to be therapists on BetterHelp are accepted. This ensures that only the most qualified professionals are available to users.
- Transparency and verification: BetterHelp displays the full credential information for each therapist on the platform to empower users to make informed decisions. This transparency allows users to independently verify their therapist’s qualifications and licensure status.
How many therapists are on the platform
According to BetterHelp, there are over 42,000 therapists in total—around 35,000 in the U.S. and around 5,000 in the UK.
Onboarding new users
The onboarding process for new users at BetterHelp is designed to be simple, tailored, and efficient, ensuring that individuals can quickly and easily connect with a therapist who meets their specific needs. Here’s how the process works:
- Filling out the questionnaire: The first step for new users is to complete a comprehensive questionnaire. This questionnaire gathers essential information about the user’s mental health concerns, preferences, and specific needs. It includes questions about the issues the user is facing, their preferences for therapist characteristics (such as gender, age, or cultural background), and their preferred communication method (video, phone, or live chat). This information is crucial for the matching algorithm to find the most suitable therapist for each user.
- Payment information: After completing the questionnaire, users are prompted to enter their credit card or payment information. This step is necessary to set up the subscription plan, allowing the user to access the full range of services offered by BetterHelp, including messaging your therapist anytime and scheduling live sessions.
- Therapist matching: Once the payment information is processed, the advanced matching algorithm analyzes the user’s responses to the questionnaire. This algorithm considers various factors, including the user’s stated preferences, specific mental health needs, and the location of available therapists, to ensure the best possible match. The goal is to connect the user with a therapist who is qualified and a good fit for their unique situation.
- Getting started: After being matched, which can happen in as little as 24 hours, the user is notified and can schedule their first session with their therapist. Users can choose from different communication methods for their sessions, including video, phone, or live chat, depending on what they are most comfortable with.
How are new users matched with a therapist?
When a new user joins BetterHelp, the matching process begins with a detailed onboarding questionnaire. This questionnaire collects information about the user’s mental health needs, preferences, and location.
The data is then analyzed by an advanced algorithm designed to optimize the match between the user and one of BetterHelp’s licensed therapists. The algorithm considers factors such as the therapist’s expertise, the user’s specific issues, and their preferred communication style (video, phone, or live chat).
Additionally, users can specify preferences for their therapist’s characteristics, including gender, cultural background, and therapeutic approach. The algorithm prioritizes these preferences to ensure a good fit. Once matched, users can begin scheduling sessions, often within 24 hours, making the process efficient and tailored.
BetterHelp also offers flexibility for users to change therapists if they feel the match isn’t quite right, ensuring that every user has the best possible therapeutic experience.
Types of counseling offered by BetterHelp
BetterHelp’s therapists can employ a variety of techniques. The exact type of therapy you’ll receive will depend on your practitioner’s training and experience. Potential therapy styles include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Emotionally focused therapy (EFT)
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Solution-focused therapy
- Trauma-focused therapy
- Mindfulness therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Family therapy
- Client-centered therapy
Does BetterHelp prescribe medication?
No, BetterHelp providers won’t prescribe medication, and you can’t fill existing prescriptions through the platform.
If you’re interested in pursuing a mental health diagnosis, have a look at our picks for the best online psychiatrist platforms. Or, if you need to fulfill an existing prescription, an online pharmacy could help you find the solution you need.
Can I receive a mental health diagnosis through BetterHelp?
No, BetterHelp doesn’t allow practitioners to diagnose mental health conditions.
How much does BetterHelp cost?
BetterHelp costs between $70 and $100 per week without financial aid. Your overall subscription cost depends on factors like your location and therapist preferences since you’ll be matched with a therapist in your state.
Subscriptions are billed every four weeks and can be paid by credit card or PayPal. BetterHelp accepts HSA/FSA cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers.
Does BetterHelp take Medicare or insurance?
No, BetterHelp doesn’t directly accept Medicare or insurance. But you can request a receipt from BetterHelp and submit it to your insurance company yourself. Just make sure to verify that your policy covers online therapy as one of your policy benefits.
Does BetterHelp offer financial aid?
Yes, you can apply for financial aid with BetterHelp during your sign-up process. BetterHelp considers factors like your income level and household members to determine your potential discount. Qualifying individuals can receive up to 40% off their subscriptions.
Specs
| Average copay | $70-$100 per week |
| Private pay option | No |
| Medicare/Medicaid | No |
| Platforms | Desktop, iOS, Android |
| Modalities | Individual |
| Ages | 18+ |
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 necessary, 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
Comparing online therapy platforms
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| BetterHelp | Talkspace | Online-Therapy.com | Brightside | |
| Rating | ||||
| Monthly cost | $260 – $400 | $276–$436 | $200–$440 | $299–$349 |
| Therapy option | Live video, phone call, chat, and messaging | Live video, phone call, or chat, and unlimited messaging | Live video, phone call, or chat, and unlimited messaging | Live video and unlimited messaging |
| Insurance accepted | No | Yes. Also accepts Medicare, but not Medicaid | Not directly, but many insurance providers will reimburse therapy | Yes, including Medicare in some states and certain Medicare Advantage plans. |
| Financial aid | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Prescriptions available | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Bottom line
BetterHelp and Talkspace can offer convenient access to online therapy from the comfort of your home. Both platforms offer weekly live sessions and the ability to message your therapist anytime. However, Talkspace and BetterHelp have slightly different features that can influence your decision.
Talkspace accepts certain insurance plans and provides access to psychiatry services, including mental health diagnoses and prescriptions you can fill at your local pharmacy. (9) But some of their subscriptions cost more than BetterHelp, and their most affordable tier doesn’t include live sessions.
On the other hand, BetterHelp’s prices may be more affordable for some subscribers, and they offer financial aid. But BetterHelp doesn’t accept insurance or provide psychiatric services.
Consider which aspects of mental health care are most important to you when making your decision. And no matter your choice, consider pairing your online therapy with other self-care activities, like mindfulness meditation. (10)
Talkspace and BetterHelp contact and payment information
| BetterHelp | Talkspace | |
| Customer service availability | Email, phone | |
| Payment options | Debit card, credit card, (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, and Google Pay. | Insurance, employer programs, debit card, credit card, (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), and EAPs. |
| Insurance Accepted? | No | Yes |
| Accepts FSA/HSA? | Yes | Yes |
| Payment plan? | No | No |
FAQs
How long are therapy sessions at Talkspace and BetterHelp?
Talkspace’s live sessions last 30 minutes, whereas BetterHelp’s last 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your therapist’s availability. In-person therapy sessions are typically 50 minutes. For lots of people, 30-minute weekly sessions can help with navigating daily stressors, mild anxiety, or relationship concerns.
Whether longer sessions may be beneficial depends on your goals, needs, and the issues you want to address. For example, if you’re seeking therapy for more severe concerns like depression or trauma, you might get more value from longer sessions.
Do Talkspace and BetterHelp accept health insurance?
Talkspace accepts certain insurance plans, while BetterHelp doesn’t. As of May 2024, Talkspace began accepting traditional Medicare plans in several states, including California, Florida, New York, Ohio, New Jersey, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, South Carolina, Idaho, and New Mexico. (11)
Is Talkspace or BetterHelp better?
Both online therapy platforms have slightly different pros and cons. The best option for your needs will depend on your goals and priorities.
For example, Talkspace allows you to choose your therapist from a list of options, while BetterHelp automatically pairs you with a therapist. However, both platforms allow you to change providers at any time.
Additionally, both platforms vary slightly in the types of therapy available. For instance, Talkspace offers couples therapy directly, while BetterHelp has a sister site, Regain, that provides this service.
Plus, Talkspace offers psychiatry services, including diagnoses and prescriptions, while BetterHelp does not. So, if you are seeking a diagnosis and medication, BetterHelp may not be the better option for you.
Our experts
Dr. Geralyn Dexter, PhD, LMHC
Geralyn Dexter, PhD, LMHC (she/her) is a writer, editor, professor, researcher, and clinician. She received a PhD in Psychology from Northcentral University, a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida. Dr. Dexter has over a decade of clinical and editorial experience. She’s practiced and supervised in intensive outpatient, community-based settings, private practice, telehealth, and mental health startups. Dr. Dexter is also a qualitative researcher whose interests include suicidal ideation and behavior and non-suicidal self-injury.
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.
Brooke Helton
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Brooke Helton is a freelance writer passionate about holistic living. She loves creating content that empowers others to take charge of their health. Beyond Fortune Recommends, you can find her work in places like Forbes Health, Business Insider, mindbodygreen, Everyday Health, MarketWatch, and more.