Many websites and apps offer free online therapy, and we've researched these services to identify the best support available. Several online services offer free or reduced-cost therapy. Sometimes, these free services will be provided by counselors or coaches, but they require payment to work directly with licensed mental health professionals. In addition, some insurance plans or EAP may cover certain online services.
Common problems faced by crisis counselors include anxiety due to COVID-19, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, and more. They can access mental health professionals who can help them use various therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), psychotherapy, and many more. Many experts consider online therapy to be an effective approach that increases access to care and helps reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment. Companies that offer true online therapy must operate under the same state and federal legal guidelines, restrictions, and definitions as traditional therapists with physical practices.
We also consider how long a patient should wait for an appointment with a free online therapy service. Professional therapy services are also available, and BlahTherapy hosts online support groups and forums that cover a wide range of mental health and emotional support topics. Factors such as cost of service, insurance coverage, and types of appointments offered (chat, video, or phone call) will help you determine the online therapy service that fits your personal needs and lifestyle. Individuals should learn about free online therapy resources at their workplace, school, or local, regional, and national mental health organizations.
While there are some free online therapy services ongoing, they are often in the form of volunteer listeners and peer coaches who are trained but not professionally licensed. ReGain Counseling is an online relationship counseling platform that specializes in couples and marriage therapy. Anyone willing to listen, focus, and commit to improving their mental health can benefit from online therapy. Free online therapy services offered by volunteers and listening partners can be great for getting general emotional support.
The websites of state mental health departments may include local mental health services, and some of them may offer free online therapy. Online therapy can help you deal with relationship problems, overcome addiction, and better manage stress. So, depending on the person and the circumstances, using online therapy services such as 7 Cups and RegAin can be quite effective. In addition, some people may prefer online therapy sessions because they have limited access to office visits.
There is no evidence to support the effectiveness of text-message-based or email-based therapy, and these forms of online therapy may not offer the same benefits as other methods.
