Access to online therapy depends on your insurance coverage and location. Most insurance companies cover online therapy services, but many require videos for therapy. In addition, if your insurance doesn't cover online therapy, there are other options, such as free therapy sites. BetterHelp offers access to licensed, accredited and experienced psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and professional counselors.
BetterHelp states that the therapists on this platform cannot make a diagnosis, so the company may be a better option for people who already have a diagnosis or for people who need general advice rather than help with a mental health condition. Learn more about BetterHelp and insurance coverage here. Read our BetterHelp review here. Depending on your insurance plan, your provider may cover all or part of the cost of therapy sessions.
It's best to check with your insurance provider before booking therapy to get a definitive answer about the services it covers. Do you expect to use insurance? YesNo If so, what is your insurance? Are you ready to start video therapy? YesNo. Many also reported that they loved the ability to search by insurance provider and the convenience of being able to perform online therapy in the privacy of their homes. However, Owens points out that some therapists who work for an online therapy company that accepts insurance may have more years of experience under their belt, since the company will handle all the annoying and time-consuming administrative tasks related to insurance.
Online therapy can be a great way for people to access mental health services, but without insurance, it can be expensive. People who have serious mental health problems and those who pose a risk to themselves, such as people who are at risk of self-harm or suicide, should not use online therapy. Headway is a therapy provider that allows patients to connect with therapists in person and online in 15 states. With equitable coverage, the same copay and deductible requirements apply to online therapy as to in-person sessions.
They may offer an employee assistance program that covers some visits with an online therapy provider. Some therapists operate on a variable fee scale, and the website has a link to a BIPOC therapy fund if you need financial assistance to access therapy. Many online therapy platforms offer a free trial of their services or a monthly subscription plan that can save you money. Online therapy is mental health counseling that takes place over the Internet or by phone and text messages.
For example, if they have difficulty controlling their feelings or feel anxious, angry, or sad, online therapy may be beneficial, according to the Family Institute at Northwestern University. If you're looking for the best online therapy that accepts insurance, these are the top platforms that do. You'll need to contact your state Medicaid office for detailed information about online therapy coverage. Amwell makes it easy to get therapy online through insurance, as 126 more insurance plans are needed than any other company on this list.
As a general rule, if you have insurance, you'll likely be able to find an online therapy provider who accepts your plan.
