BetterHelp Review 2025
The world's largest online therapy platform
What is BetterHelp?
BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 4.4 million patients since its founding. The platform connects users with licensed therapists through a variety of communication channels, making professional mental health support accessible from anywhere.
With over 30,000 licensed therapists in their network, BetterHelp offers one of the broadest selections of mental health professionals available online, covering a wide range of specializations and therapeutic approaches.
What Does BetterHelp Offer?
Communication Options
- Unlimited messaging: Send text, audio, or video messages to your therapist at any time
- Live chat: Schedule real-time text conversations
- Phone sessions: Voice-only therapy calls
- Video sessions: Face-to-face sessions via secure video
Key Features
- Matching algorithm pairs you with a suitable therapist
- Easy therapist switching at no extra cost
- Group therapy sessions (groupinars) available
- Journal feature for self-reflection
- Financial aid available for qualifying users
Therapists & Quality
BetterHelp requires all therapists to be licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited professionals. This includes psychologists, licensed marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors with at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of experience.
Data Privacy Concerns
It is important to note that BetterHelp faced a significant data privacy scandal. In March 2023, it was revealed that the platform had shared user data — including health-related information — with third-party companies for advertising purposes. The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigated and BetterHelp paid $7.8 million to affected users. The FTC also banned future sharing of health data for advertising.
BetterHelp has stated this was not an admission of guilt and has since updated its privacy practices. However, users should be aware of this history when making their decision.
Pricing
BetterHelp charges a weekly fee that varies based on your location and therapist availability. Plans typically range from $65 to $100 per week, billed monthly. This includes:
- One live session per week (30–45 minutes)
- Unlimited text messaging with your therapist
- Access to groupinars and journal features
Financial aid is available for users who qualify, making the service more accessible to those with limited budgets.
✅ Pros
- Largest therapist network (30,000+)
- Extensive range of specializations
- Easy therapist switching
- Multiple communication options
- Financial aid available
- 7,000+ Trustpilot reviews
- Group therapy sessions available
❌ Cons
- Past data privacy concerns (FTC investigation)
- Not covered by most insurance plans
- Therapist quality can vary
- No psychiatric services
- Pricing can be higher than some competitors
Who is BetterHelp Best For?
- Individuals seeking a wide variety of therapeutic approaches
- Those who want flexibility in choosing and switching therapists
- Users who prefer unlimited messaging between sessions
- People looking for group therapy options alongside individual sessions
- Those dealing with depression, anxiety, or PTSD
- Couples seeking online couples therapy (via ReGain)
Our Verdict
BetterHelp remains one of the most comprehensive online therapy platforms available, with an unmatched therapist network and flexible communication options. However, the past data privacy issues are a notable concern. If data privacy is a top priority for you, consider alternatives like Online-Therapy.com. For sheer variety and accessibility, BetterHelp is still a strong choice. See our full comparison of all platforms for more options.