How to Use BetterHelp for Online Therapy

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects you with licensed therapists through your phone, tablet, or computer. Instead of driving to an office and sitting in a waiting room, you can message your therapist any time or schedule a live video or phone session at a time that works for you.

BetterHelp is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger or having thoughts of harming yourself, please call or text 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.

When you sign up, BetterHelp asks you a series of questions about what you are going through — things like stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or grief. Based on your answers, the platform matches you with a therapist who specializes in those areas. You can read your therapist's background, credentials, and experience before accepting the match.

Once matched, you have a few ways to connect. The most common option is sending text messages through a private, secure chat. You can write to your therapist any time, and they typically respond within one to two business days. You can also schedule live sessions by video call, phone call, or live text chat.

BetterHelp costs between $65 and $100 per week, billed monthly. This covers unlimited messaging and at least one live session per week. Financial aid is available if cost is a concern — there is a form during sign-up to apply. BetterHelp does not accept insurance directly, but some insurance plans may reimburse part of the cost. Check with your insurance company.

Your conversations on BetterHelp are private and protected by the same confidentiality rules that apply to in-person therapy. You can cancel your subscription at any time from your account settings.