Finding the Best Online Therapy
This year has been a challenging one, and I don’t know anyone who hasn’t been facing some sort of difficulties. As a result, it seems like more and more people are reaching out for help in the form of therapy.
Now, more than ever, healthcare, especially therapy, has become more accessible. We now have more options than ever before. In this article, we will outline options for finding the best online therapy, and how exactly it works.
How Does Online Therapy Work?
Online healthcare, often termed telehealth, is a growing industry, and it appears it is here to stay. This new form of healthcare comes with a lot of positives, including the ability to access care on your own time and in your own space.
It also has some drawbacks to consider, such as technological limitations and a blunting of inter-personal connection. While telehealth may not be right for everyone, it is a convenient and safe method of accessing help for many people.
Just like any in-person therapy, you’ll first want to check to ensure that the provider you’ve chosen is approved by your health insurance. Next, you’ll submit your information and request a therapist that specializes in the area of your specific needs.
Similar to an in-office appointment, you will be asked a series of questions related to your health, preferences, and style of therapy you are seeking. This will help ensure that you are matched with the right therapist, though often it takes some trial and error to find the right fit.
Many online therapy options use app-like platforms and utilize subscription models for billing. Once you sign up, you may pay monthly or per session.
Online sessions are typically less expensive than in-personal therapy but be sure to confirm with your health insurance before subscribing. Even inexpensive therapy can become expensive over time.
Finding the Right Fit
There are several companies and apps that offer online therapy for the general public. So, how do you know which one to try? Well, I’ve done the research for you, and I’m here to recommend three high-quality, online options for your needs.
Once you find an option that works for you, you’ll be on your way to experiencing one of the best online therapy experiences you can have.
BetterHelp
The BetterHelp network includes thousands of licensed, accredited, and experienced therapists who are ready to help you through any difficulty you may be experiencing.
Therapy can take place in the form of a video call, a live messaging chat, or a phone call. The cost of this service is $40 to $80 weekly, giving you unlimited access to support. Financial aid is also available to those who may need it.
While BetterHelp doesn’t direct-bill insurance, they will provide you with a receipt for reimbursement, where applicable.
TalkSpace
The TalkSpace network works hard to match you with a compatible therapist, and like BetterHelp, gives you unlimited access for a set fee. The subscription costs range from $65 to $99 per week, depending on your needs.
You will have around-the-clock access to professional help, and if you are the type of person who wants to avoid video sessions, they have text-only options available.
TalkSpace accepts insurance and is covered by many Employee Health Programs.
Online-Therapy.com
The Online-Therapy.com approach allows for more individual and self-directed care. This program focuses on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and provides extra resources such as worksheets and yoga videos, in addition to their video counseling options.
Starting as low as $35 per week, you will have Monday to Friday access to your licensed therapist, for a maximum of 30 minutes weekly. You will also have unlimited access to the host of other resources available on their platform.
Is Online Therapy for Me?
Now that you know some of the options available for online therapy, let’s discuss whether online counseling sessions are right for you.
Just like in-person therapy, you can expect a professional, licensed and experienced therapist to deliver your service. Some of the benefits of online therapy include scheduling flexibility, increased access (especially if you live in a remote area), and affordability.
It is also important to consider the drawbacks of virtual counseling. Some insurance companies do not cover online sessions, so it is best to confirm eligibility before subscribing. It is also important to understand that not all situations are appropriate for online therapy.
If you have a serious psychiatric illness, or are experiencing a crisis, in-person therapy is your best option. Furthermore, if you are a person who heavily relies on body language as a means of communication, virtual counseling may not feel like the right fit for you.