Whether you’re having a bad mental health day or need to talk to someone about relationship issues, there are many online options to reach out to a licensed psychologist or mental health professional. One of these choices is BetterHelp, an online subscription service that connects people to professionals via an online platform.
With better access to mental healthcare comes big questions. One of these is insurance coverage for services like BetterHelp. Even today, when mental health is more supported than ever, people still struggle to find financial ways to get the help they need. The good news is that BetterHelp enables you to schedule your mental health care around your work, family, social, or school responsibilities.
Discover if BetterHelp takes insurance, what to know about this innovative service, and your financial options if you sign up.
What is BetterHelp?
BetterHelp is a popular and fast-growing online platform and subscription service that matches people across the US with a licensed psychologist via teletherapy.
BetterHelp is a fast, flexible, and affordable way to access professional therapy services from the privacy and comfort of your own home. When you use BetterHelp, you can choose which session option works best for you, including weekly video, live chat, or phone sessions.
Is BetterHelp Legitimate?
With celebrity sponsors and social media promotions, you might wonder if BetterHelp is the real deal.
According to Forbes.com, BetterHelp is a legitimate company that offers excellent online therapy services. With almost 2 million patients and more than 22,000 therapists available, BetterHelp is a leader in teletherapy that many people prefer using instead of traditional in-person sessions at a therapist’s office.
It’s important to know that if you’re in danger, experiencing a mental health crisis, or feel like hurting yourself, BetterHelp isn’t the best option. Instead, contact local law enforcement or a domestic abuse shelter, or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline.
If you need normal mental healthcare or need to talk to someone, BetterHelp’s board-licensed professional counselors, psychologists, marriage; family therapists, and clinical social workers are there to help.
All BetterHelp’s therapists hold either a master’s or doctorate degree. With a minimum of 3 years and 1,000 hours of practical experience, these licensed professionals can assist with various mental health concerns and help you find clarity in life.
How Much Does BetterHelp Cost?
Payment is the next step if you’ve decided that BetterHelp is a good fit for you. BetterHelp doesn’t charge per session. Instead, BetterHelp costs a blanket $60-$90 fee per week. This is charged monthly at around $240-$360 each month. You can pay with a credit card or PayPal.
Does BetterHelp Take Insurance?
A common question for people interested in trying BetterHelp is how to pay for the service.
According to BetterHelp’s website and Medical News Today, BetterHelp does not take insurance. Instead, the company has a flexible-rate subscription package that is billed monthly. Since BetterHelp does not charge per session but per week, patients can get multiple sessions for the same rate. There’s no deductible for BetterHelp since BetterHelp can’t send claims to an insurance company.
The good news is that the company gives eligible people financial aid. This can help people seeking therapy on a budget and an affordable option for online treatment. If you qualify for BetterHelp’s financial assistance, you can knock 20-50% off your subscription cost.
The Takeaway
BetterHelp’s subscription package includes different ways to access therapy sessions, including video, chat, or phone calls. Research has shown that multiple therapy sessions are a powerful way to make progress and improve your mental health.
Even though BetterHelp doesn’t take insurance, some insurance companies reimburse patients for out-of-pocket therapy.
If you’re interested in subscribing to BetterHelp, check with your insurance company to see if they will reimburse some or all payments made for BetterHelp therapy.
