Online therapy has undergone a much-deserved surge in recent years, with a wide range of services and platforms available for every mental health need. With so many popular web-based and online apps to choose from, you may find yourself a little overwhelmed at the seemingly endless options.
Here we’ll reveal some of online counselling’s leading platforms, along with particularly noteworthy features, to help you make the best possible choice.
1. BetterHelp
BetterHelp’s mission is to make professional counselling more accessible for all, and its current status as the largest online counselling platform in the world is a testament unto itself. Upon signing up, users are matched with a licensed therapist who best suits their needs and unique situation, with all sessions scheduled and conducted via smartphone, computer, or tablet.
A recent study conducted through the Berkeley Well-Being Institute found that BetterHelp proved to be just as effective as in-person counselling, with 94% of overall participants preferring BetterHelp over face-to-face therapy.
2. Talkspace
Much like BetterHelp, Talkspace matches users with licensed therapists specializing in their wellness needs, and with plans to match every budget and schedule. Once you’re matched with your therapist, you can message them twice a day with any concerns or questions, or schedule a video chat if you need more time.
Talkspace also provides an additional Unlimited Messaging Therapy option, which allows you to message your therapist as frequently as necessary.
3. Regain
Regain is an online counselling platform specializing in relationships, with a mission to provide discreet and convenient counselling for couples from all walks of life. The service can be used by individuals as well as couples, with the latter signing up for a joint account and sharing all correspondence.
All therapy sessions are conducted via chat or live session by fully accredited marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), licensed professional counsellors (LPC or LPCC), or established psychologists (PhD / PsyD).
4. Breakthrough
Launched in 2009, Breakthrough is one of the leading pioneers in online therapy. Their simple sign-up procedure allows users to select from an extensive list of therapists based on location, insurance, and areas of expertise (addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, etc).
Once a therapist has been chosen, communication takes place via the platform’s message/chatbox. One of Breakthrough’s notable features is a built-in calendar from which users can opt for a preferred date and time of appointment, submit it to their therapist, and receive either a confirmation or counteroffer.
5. HealthSapiens.com
This service is all about keeping healthcare (mental and physical) as hassle-free as possible. Upon registering, new users can log in to their portal accounts to look up available specialists or connect directly to a healthcare professional by toll-free number, with minimal wait times and no added fees.
Prescriptions can also be written and filled at your local pharmacy. The service works without or in addition to most health insurance providers, and users are granted unlimited doctor visits at no extra charge.
6. Online-Therapy.com
This online platform strives to provide users with top-notch mental health support, as well as a powerful range of tools and materials to access at any time. No matter your mental health issue, Online-Therapy.com enlists certified professionals to help you in your time of need, and with consideration for your busy schedule and budget.
The platform additionally boasts an up-to-date library of resources such as journals, exercises, worksheets, and even guided online yoga classes to round out your all-around wellbeing.
7. PrestoExperts
PrestoExperts’ counsellors have years of experience and careful vetting to recommend them, with all manner of life challenges such as relationships, career, mental health issues, and life goals covered by their expertise. Objective and non-judgemental, PrestoExperts believes in providing users with the help they need to not only overcome present circumstances but pave the way to a happier, healthier existence.
Therapists on PrestoExperts charge by the minute, with prices starting at $2.99 per minute.
8. iCounseling
One of the most popular online counselling platforms, iCounseling provides convenient and affordable sessions with fully licensed, experienced, and accredited professionals holding Masters or Doctorates, as well as at least 3 years and 2,000 hours of experience, in their field of practice.
Upon signing up, users are matched with a counsellor who best fits their preferences and objectives, with the option to be rematched if they feel their specialist isn’t the best fit. Users and counsellors chat and exchange questions in a secure site-hosted “room” open 24/7, with no pre-scheduling required.
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9. MD Live
MD Live believes that healthcare should be fast and uncomplicated, and their mobile app connects users with quality doctors within mere minutes. After setting up your account, you’ll be able to search MD Live’s network of board-certified doctors, select the one that’s right for you, and arrange for an appointment either online or by phone.
Your doctor on MD Live can address any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as panic attacks, depression, stress, or grief, and can even send a prescription for you to fill at your nearest pharmacy.
10.Amwell
After creating an account with Amwell, you’ll be able to connect and consult with an enlisted healthcare professional in next to no time. This web-based and mobile app connect users with doctors via high-quality video streaming, as well as 24/7 support for at home or on the go.
Thanks to their top-rated technology, Amwell lets you speak with a doctor face-to-face in real-time, as well as receive diagnoses and even prescribed treatments without leaving the comfort and privacy of your own home. The cost of each visit is less than half of a regular in-office doctor consultation, and most insurance plans are acknowledged.