You've almost certainly heard of BetterHelp. It's become one of the most recognized names in online therapy, partly because it's been all over YouTube sponsorships for years. Usually, that level of marketing can make a platform feel overhyped. But BetterHelp earns its reputation. The therapist network is enormous, the matching process is thorough, and the sheer variety of support formats means most people can find something that works for them.
BetterHelp is one of our top picks among the best mental health apps, especially for people who want real professional support.
BetterHelp
- Price: Pricing varies by therapist and session format.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
You shouldn't be stressed about your phone bill on top of everything else.
Unlimited data plans make sure your therapy sessions, messaging, and mental health apps are always accessible without watching your usage.
Check out the most popular unlimited plans and see what you could save:
|
XFINITY Mobile
Premium Unlimited Plan
$50.00/mo
|
|
PureTalk
Unlimited Data w/ 30GB Hotspot Plan
$64.99/mo
+ $3 Upfront
|
|
T-Mobile
Experience More
$85.00/mo
with Auto-Pay + Taxes and fees
|
What is BetterHelp?
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects you with a licensed therapist through video sessions, live chat, phone calls, and asynchronous messaging. The platform covers individual therapy, couples counseling, and teen therapy, with therapists specializing in everything from grief and trauma to anxiety, relationship issues, and workplace stress.
Not sure how to update your apps?
Keeping your apps up to date ensures you're always getting the latest features, bug fixes, and security improvements. Learn how to update the apps on your iPhone and your Android. It takes less time than you think.
How BetterHelp connects you to a therapist
After completing a detailed intake questionnaire about your mental health history, goals, and session preferences, BetterHelp matches you with a therapist within a few hours. The matching algorithm factors in your specific concerns, communication style preferences, and therapist availability, which makes the initial pairing spot on.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
Once matched, you have access to unlimited messaging with your therapist between sessions, plus the option to join group webinars on specific mental health topics. That combination of individual support and community content gives BetterHelp more depth than platforms that only offer scheduled appointments. If the initial therapist match isn't right, switching is easy and doesn't affect your account.
What BetterHelp costs
BetterHelp pricing varies by therapist and the number of sessions per week you select. Financial aid is available for users who qualify, and the platform is transparent about that option during signup. Unlike Talkspace, BetterHelp is not typically covered by insurance, so it's worth checking this before committing.
For the level of professional access it provides, including unlimited messaging and regular live sessions, BetterHelp is a defensible cost for people who are ready to prioritize their mental health. It's not the budget option on this list, but it is the most comprehensive one.
How I tested BetterHelp
- Completed the intake questionnaire and evaluated the quality of the therapist match
- Used the messaging feature to assess therapist responsiveness between sessions
- Attended a group webinar session to evaluate that feature alongside individual therapy
- Compared the overall experience to Talkspace and in-person therapy to assess value
Why you can trust WhistleOut
.svg)
15+
years of mobile industry experience
900+
published wireless guides
35+
firsthand carrier reviews
We've been around since the birth of the iPhone. Along the way, we've learned how to spot the best deals for your wallet (and your sanity). We spend our days researching informative guides and writing insightful reviews on every kind of wireless plan, distinguishing what matters from what doesn't. We played around with these plans before recommending them, ensuring they're worth your hard-earned money.
Want to know more? Check out how we review every cell phone plan we rank.
BetterHelp: FAQ
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
BetterHelp is not typically covered by insurance, but it does offer a financial aid program for users who qualify. Check eligibility during the signup process.
How is BetterHelp different from Talkspace?
BetterHelp has a larger therapist network and includes unlimited messaging and group webinars in most plans. Talkspace is often a better option if you want insurance coverage for online therapy.
Can you message your BetterHelp therapist any time?
Yes, BetterHelp includes unlimited asynchronous messaging with your therapist, meaning you can send messages at any time and your therapist will respond during their scheduled hours.
Is BetterHelp legit?
Yes, all BetterHelp therapists are licensed, credentialed professionals. The platform verifies credentials and specializations before therapists are approved to see clients.
Jessica Santero
Staff Writer
Find a better phone plan
Thousands of cell phone plans unpacked. All the facts. No surprises.
.jpg?w=280&h=280&usm=20&usmrad=0.8&fit=crop "How to Switch to Straight Talk & BYOP")
.png?w=280&h=280&usm=20&usmrad=0.8&fit=crop "Cell Coverage Near You: Who Has the Best 5G Network?")
.jpg?w=280&h=280&usm=20&usmrad=0.8&fit=crop "How to Bundle Cox Mobile Phone and Internet: Is Bundling Worth It?")
