Online Therapy Sessions

One of the biggest benefits of online therapy is accessibility and convenience. Whether you’re balancing a busy schedule, living in a rural area, or simply prefer the comfort of your own home, virtual sessions make it easier to prioritize your mental health. You can connect with a licensed therapist from your phone, tablet, or computer—no commute, no waiting rooms.

Many people also find it easier to open up in a familiar environment, which can lead to more honest conversations and deeper healing. Online therapy removes many of the traditional barriers to care, making support more available when you need it most.

Can you talk to a therapist online for free?

Yes, but with limitations.

• Free resources do exist, such as:

  • Crisis lines (e.g., 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text “HELLO” to 741741)

  • Nonprofit mental health organizations offering limited sessions

  • University programs that provide therapy from supervised grad students

  • Some community clinics may offer sliding-scale or pro bono services

However, ongoing, personalized therapy is usually not completely free unless it’s part of a program or covered by insurance.

Does online therapy really work?

Yes — for many people, it works very well.

Research shows that online therapy (also called teletherapy or telehealth) is as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health issues, including:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• PTSD

• Relationship struggles

• Grief and loss

It can be especially beneficial for people who:

• Prefer privacy

• Have limited access to transportation or live in remote areas

• Feel more comfortable opening up from home

That said, it’s not ideal for every situation, especially severe crises or some types of trauma work that require close monitoring.

What is the average cost of online therapy?

Costs vary depending on platform, therapist qualifications, and insurance coverage.

• Subscription platforms (like BetterHelp or Talkspace):
  ~$60–$90 per week (billed monthly)

• Private practice therapists online:
  ~$100–$200+ per session (may be less with insurance)

• Sliding scale options:
  Some therapists offer reduced rates based on your income.

Always ask about:

• Insurance coverage

• Sliding scale availability

• Free consultations or intro sessions

What is the BetterHelp scandal?

The BetterHelp scandal mainly refers to data privacy concerns and misleading marketing:

• In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) fined BetterHelp $7.8 million for sharing user data (including email addresses and mental health info) with third-party advertisers like Facebook and Snapchat without proper consent.

• People felt betrayed, especially since the platform promised confidentiality.

• Critics have also raised concerns about:

  • Matching users with unqualified or unsuitable therapists

  • High turnover of therapists

  • Lack of continuity of care

BetterHelp has since updated its privacy policies, but the incident raised awareness about the importance of choosing reputable, ethical providers.

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