The growing number of online therapy providers means there are more options for every situation and need. (Getty Images)
This May, as we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, conversations about mental well-being are at the forefront. We're increasingly recognizing that looking after our minds is just as crucial as caring for our physical health, yet nearly half of those in need feel that seeking mental health support is too much of a hurdle. For some, it's a lack of insurance. For others, it's a packed schedule or living miles from the nearest provider. But finding care shouldn't add more stress. Online therapy offers a solution, bringing mental health support straight to your screen at your convenience — no commute required.
Content concerning mental health is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical or health advice. Consult a medical professional for questions about your health. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911, local emergency services or 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline).
"With online therapy, a person is able to meet with a therapist from home. Online therapy is usually over the internet and is typically video-based. However, online therapy can take place via phone calls or text messages," explains Jay Serle, licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical psychologist. Online options are available for individuals, couples and families, with specialized options for LGBTQ people, grief support and substance use disorder. Many platforms also allow you to select therapists based on race, ethnicity or gender.
But is online therapy effective? "Online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy, and in some cases, it might be even more beneficial due to its flexible nature," says Brianna Paruolo, psychotherapist, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and founder of On Par Therapy. Research supports this, with studies from 2021 and 2022 confirming that online therapy is a reliable alternative to the traditional in-person approach.
To make sense of the many online therapy options available, we researched over 50 providers and narrowed them down to our top 18, based on overall benefits and specific needs. Our selection process included input from mental health professionals, in-house testing and insights from 750 Yahoo survey respondents. I also leveraged my clinical experience as a social worker to evaluate each service.
We focused on affordability, insurance compatibility, diverse therapy approaches and a strong network of licensed therapists nationwide. Whether you need individual therapy, couples counseling or low-cost therapy, we're confident you'll find what you need on this list.
Update, May 14, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for the best overall online therapy remains unchanged.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Most, including UnitedHealthcare, Humana, BlueCross, Aetna, Cigna | Medicare accepted: Yes | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until the first appointment: Same-day appointments available | States available: DC and all states except VT | Types of therapy offered: Individual, couples, teen, children, family, groups, psychiatry | Notable features: In-person appointments, teen counseling
Deciding to start therapy is a big step, and when you’re ready, the last thing you want is to sit on a waitlist. That’s why Thriveworks is our top choice — it cuts out the waiting game, offering same-day and next-day appointments in all states except Vermont. Research shows that access to timely services is a key component of quality health care, and Thriveworks delivers with its mental health services.
Beyond speed, Thriveworks offers therapy for individuals, couples, children, teens, families and groups, as well as psychiatry services for those who need both talk therapy and medication management. Its licensed therapists provide evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief and addiction, using proven methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). If your insurance is accepted, sessions could cost as little as $0.
And if telehealth isn’t for you, that's no problem. Thriveworks also offers in-person sessions in many states, including dedicated children’s therapy centers in select locations.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Many, including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem | Medicare accepted: Yes | Medicaid accepted: Yes | Time until the first appointment: In 2 days | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual therapy and psychiatry for adults | Notable features: Mobile app, text-based therapy
Psychiatry services can be cost-prohibitive, with some competitors charging over $300 per session. However, Brightside — our top pick for online psychiatry — offers affordable medication management at a fraction of the cost. Even for those without insurance or who are underinsured, the initial intake appointment is just $95.
The process is straightforward, and you could have a telehealth appointment within 2 days. After completing a short questionnaire about your needs, you're matched with a provider for an intake session, where they may prescribe medication if appropriate. Once you start treatment, you'll track your symptoms and attend follow-up appointments to ensure your medication is working effectively.
Brightside doesn’t list the length of its initial intake session on its website, but when Yahoo tested the service, our tester’s first appointment with a psychiatrist lasted 45 minutes. Follow-up sessions typically run about 15 minutes. For additional support, you can add weekly 30-minute therapy sessions for $299 per month.
Insurance accepted: No | Insurance companies: N/A | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until the first appointment: Less than 24 hours | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Emotional support groups for divorce, grief, codependency and depression | Notable features: Mobile app, audio support groups
Let’s be real: Therapy is expensive. A single session of cognitive behavioral therapy can cost over $100, and if you need weekly sessions, it adds up quickly. That’s why Circles is our top pick for online support groups — it offers a more affordable way to connect with others who understand what you're going through. With groups led by peers and mental health professionals, Circles provides support for addiction, grief, divorce, depression, anxiety, trauma and codependency.
Unlike traditional therapy, Circles focuses on community-driven support rather than one-on-one counseling. It also includes educational seminars with actionable mental health tools. Plus, you can join a session anytime, anywhere, since groups run 24/7.
While Circles no longer offers free groups beyond its trial period, its membership remains one of the most cost-effective ways to access ongoing mental health support.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: UnitedHealthcare, BlueCross, Aetna and more | Medicare accepted: Yes | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until the first appointment: Varies based on location, provider and service needed | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual, couples, children, teens, psychiatry | Notable features: Mobile app, text-based therapy, teen counseling
When you’re paying for insurance, choosing a therapy provider that accepts it makes sense. Many online therapy platforms don’t, but Amwell stands out by accepting over 40 insurance plans and making mental health care far more accessible than most competitors.
Amwell offers therapy and psychiatry for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), PTSD, grief, LGBTQ+ counseling, couples therapy and more. Signing up is simple: start by selecting your insurance provider, choose a therapist and book an appointment based on availability. If your therapist isn’t the right fit, switching is easy.
The only drawback? Your location affects therapist availability. Someone in Los Angeles may have over 50 therapists to choose from and access same-day appointments, while a user in Kentucky may find fewer than 15 options and wait a bit longer. Still, if you want to use your insurance for online therapy, Amwell is one of the best options.
Cost: $30-$70 + $65 lifetime membership | Insurance accepted: No | States available: All 50 states, Canada | Types of therapy offered: Individual, couples, children, families, group and teen therapy
The price tag attached to therapy remains one of the most significant obstacles to mental health access. Open Path Collective tackles this challenge head-on, offering sessions with both pre-licensed and experienced therapists at rates comparable to typical insurance copays — making them our top choice for culturally sensitive therapy for the underinsured.
"Economic barriers and lack of representation" are two critical issues preventing greater diversity in mental health care, explains Shelton. Open Path Collective addresses both issues by maintaining an intentionally diverse directory of providers across racial backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages and therapeutic approaches.
What separates this service is its commitment to including both emerging and established therapists. As Sagapolutele notes when discussing systemic barriers, true progress requires "developing community-based pipelines that support local students from high school to licensure." Open Path embodies this philosophy by creating opportunities for pre-licensed therapists while ensuring even complex cases can access experienced providers — a departure from most affordable options that limit you to practitioners with minimal experience.
It's essential to recognize that Open Path serves as a directory rather than an online therapy platform. This means you'll need to contact potential therapists directly, and availability information might not always be current.
Insurance accepted: No, but reimbursement may be possible | Insurance companies: N/A | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until the first appointment: 2-6 days | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Couples | Notable features: Self-guided digital tools, video sessions
Couples therapy goes beyond fixing problems. It helps strengthen relationships, improve communication and maintain connection. That’s why Ours is our top pick for couples counseling. It offers therapy for a range of relationship challenges, including premarital counseling, conflict resolution, intimacy, major life transitions and more. Unlike many therapy platforms, Ours exclusively works with fully licensed therapists with specialized training in evidence-based couples therapy techniques like the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The clinical care team thoroughly vets every therapist to ensure you’re matched with a high-quality provider who understands the unique dynamics of couples therapy.
Beyond traditional sessions, Ours emphasizes proactive relationship maintenance. Couples don’t have to wait for significant issues to seek support. The platform provides free digital tools like weekly reflection exercises, journal prompts and virtual card decks to help partners deepen their connection between sessions.
Telehealth therapy sessions are available in all 50 states through 50-minute video sessions. The initial consultation is $50, and a la carte sessions are $200 per hour. Packages can save you up to 25%.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Varies based on therapist | Medicare accepted: Varies based on therapist | Medicaid accepted: Varies based on therapist | Time until the first appointment: Varies based on therapist | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual, couples, teens, children, family, groups, psychiatry | Notable features: Free get-matched service, community blog, podcasts
For many Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals and 2SLGBTQIA+ people, finding a therapist who truly understands their lived experiences is essential. Inclusive Therapists makes this process effortless with a vast directory designed to prioritize diversity, cultural competence and identity-affirming care. Unlike general therapy platforms, this directory centers on therapists with diverse identities. It offers extensive filtering options to help clients find the right provider based on cultural background, spiritual orientation, specialty, fees and insurance acceptance.
Inclusive Therapists also offers a free Get Matched service for those who prefer a more hands-off approach. Instead of searching independently, you can fill out a short form with your preferences and up to three providers will reach out to you directly. This feature ensures you connect with mental health professionals who align with your identity and therapeutic needs, making the search process more accessible and stress-free.
While the sheer number of providers can feel overwhelming, taking your time and scheduling multiple consultations can help you find the right fit. If culturally competent, identity-affirming care is a top priority, this is the best platform to help you find it.
Insurance accepted: No | Insurance companies: Reimbursable by most out of network plans | Medicare accepted: Not stipulated | Medicaid accepted: Not stipulated | Time until the first appointment: 2-3 days | States available: 40 states and Washington, D. C. (not available in AK, HI, IA, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, NM and VT) | Types of therapy offered: Individual, couples | Notable features: Teen counseling, in-person sessions
According to a national survey from the U.S. Census Bureau, LGBTQ adults are significantly more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to non-LGBTQ adults. Our favorite option for LGBTQ therapy — Gay Therapy Center — offers individual and couples therapy from highly qualified LGBTQ providers.
Its licensed therapists are all members of the LGBTQ community, with an average of 10 years of experience providing therapy services. The therapists also have expertise in treating a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessions, polygamy and more, through various modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and affirmative therapy.
Like many other online therapy platforms, Gay Therapy Center matches you with a therapist based on your needs and location. But unlike most platforms, which use an online form and an algorithm to match you, Gay Therapy Center personalizes the process. To find your match, you first engage in a free 15-minute consultation with the company’s founder or the client intake coordinator to discuss your therapy needs and what you’re looking for in a provider. Then, once you receive your match, you can schedule your first appointment, which is generally available within 2 to 3 days.
You can access therapy online in 40 states and in person, in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Insurance isn’t accepted, but you may receive reimbursement. One downside is that Gay Therapy Center is pricier, with sessions ranging between $185 and $250.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Various | Medicare accepted: Some plans | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until the first appointment: Unlisted | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual, messaging | Notable features: Text-based therapy, children and teen counseling
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been reclassified as a separate condition from anxiety disorders; anxiety remains a core struggle for up to 75% of those with OCD. That’s why NOCD stands out as the best platform for treating both OCD and anxiety-related conditions. Unlike general therapy platforms, NOCD exclusively focuses on OCD treatment, ensuring that every provider is a licensed therapist trained specifically in OCD and its related conditions, including anxiety and depression.
What sets NOCD apart is its rigorous, comprehensive training program and continuing education for therapists. Every provider is extensively trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, the gold-standard treatment for OCD. Before working with clients, therapists undergo evaluation to ensure they can effectively deliver ERP. Many also have additional expertise in PTSD, hoarding disorders and body-focused repetitive behaviors like skin-picking and hair-pulling.
NOCD offers therapy in all 50 states, accepts insurance and provides unlimited messaging between sessions. A 60-minute live video session costs $240, while a 30-minute session is $120. While pricing isn’t listed upfront on the website, their customer support team is highly responsive and transparent, offering clear information without pushy sales tactics. If you're looking for specialized, evidence-based care for OCD and anxiety, NOCD is the best option available.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Time until first appointment: Not provided | States available: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Pennsylvania, Washington, Virginia, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Kentucky, Florida, Ohio, Arizona, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Michigan and Washington, D.C. | Types of services offered: Individual and group therapy and medication management for adults
The stigma associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) frequently prevents people from seeking the full range of treatments available. Although support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, can be helpful, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the first line of treatment for those with moderate to severe AUD. Despite its proven effectiveness, medication is vastly underused.
Monument is our top pick for AUD, as it aims to close this gap by offering MAT to those experiencing an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. In addition to its virtual support groups, forums and one-on-one therapy, you can meet with a practitioner to receive one of two medications shown to reduce alcohol consumption in those struggling with AUD. Furthermore, Monument doesn't take an all-or-nothing approach to alcohol. If you're aiming to simply cut back on your drinking rather than eliminate it, Monument will support you on that journey.
This wrap-around care distinguishes Monument from other providers, but that doesn't mean Monument is right for everyone. It doesn't offer treatment to those under 18, and it's unclear whether its providers are equipped to treat co-occurring disorders that often accompany AUD, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD or sleep disorders. While Monument accepts health insurance, if your insurance doesn't cover treatment, it's going to be expensive, with plans costing upwards of $249 per month.
Still, if you're struggling to reduce or stop your alcohol consumption, Monument's thorough treatment options could be what you need to succeed.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Independence Blue Cross, AmeriHealth (NJ), Sana and more | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No |Time until first appointment: Varies based on provider availability | States available: 15 states (CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, MD, NJ, NY, NC, OA, TX, UT, VA, WA) and Washington, D.C | Types of therapy offered: Children and adolescent therapy, medication management, parent coaching | Notable features: Teen counseling, mobile app, parent coaching
When one family member struggles, the whole family feels it. Little Otter takes a holistic approach to children's mental health, offering therapy and medication management for kids up to 14, along with parent coaching — a key feature that sets it apart from other platforms.
Parent coaching is unique to Little Otter. When sending a child to therapy, parents often have questions and concerns about understanding their treatment and learning how to best support them. Little Otter acknowledges this by providing parents with dedicated coaching sessions filled with tools, guidance and resources.
The sign-up process is }family-centered, beginning with a family mental health assessment. By answering a few questions, parents receive a report providing a big picture of their child’s emotional and behavioral needs.
After the assessment, families book a free 30-minute kickoff session to receive a customized care plan. The Little Otter app makes tracking progress simple and offers real-time updates on treatment. This thoughtful, detail-oriented approach sets Little Otter apart from its competitors.
However, high out-of-pocket costs and limited insurance acceptance are drawbacks. But for families looking for comprehensive, family-inclusive mental health care for children, Little Otter remains the best choice.
Insurance Accepted: Yes | Time until first appointment: One week | States available: All 50 | Types of therapy available: Individual talk therapy, couples therapy, individual teen therapy, medication management for adults
Finding the right therapist for a teenager can be challenging, but the need for accessible, effective care has never been greater. A recent Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior report highlights the rising rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles among teens, making early intervention critical. That’s why Talkspace is our top choice for online teen therapy — it offers flexible, tech-friendly options that meet teens where they are, both in terms of communication and convenience.
Talkspace stands out because it allows teens to choose how they engage in therapy. They can connect with their therapist through live video, text messaging or chat-based therapy, allowing them to express themselves in a way that feels most natural. The ability to message their therapist between sessions also provides continuous support, which can be especially helpful for teens navigating daily stressors.
Another significant advantage is that Talkspace offers medication management for teens needing additional support beyond talk therapy. Appointments are flexible, and since therapy is conducted via smartphone or tablet, teens can access care anywhere they feel comfortable.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Most | Medicare accepted: Unlisted | Medicaid accepted: Unlisted |Time until first appointment: Unlisted | States available: 15 states (AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MI, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, TX, VA, WA and WI) and Canada | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, self-led courses | Notable features: Learning center, video sessions
Motherhood is transformative, but it's also physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting. From pregnancy and postpartum recovery to balancing work, relationships and the overwhelming mental load of parenting, moms often find themselves struggling in silence. All too often, traditional therapy doesn't account for the unique challenges moms face. That's where our top choice for maternal mental health — Momwell — comes in.
Momwell is explicitly designed for moms at every stage, from preconception to pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. The platform's licensed therapists specialize in maternal mental health, covering everything from postpartum depression and anxiety to mom guilt, identity loss and balancing career and family.
The Momwell therapists are trained in maternal mental health, so there's no need to explain why intrusive thoughts, birth trauma or sleep deprivation affect your mental state. Momwell therapists get it. Beyond therapy, Momwell offers coaching, educational resources and workshops on emotional regulation, parenting struggles and relationship challenges post-baby.
Insurance accepted: No | Insurance companies: N/A | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until first appointment: Immediate availability | States available: 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, couples therapy, individual teen therapy | Notable features: Teen counseling, risk-free guarantee
For some people, faith plays a decisive role in their mental health. Those seeking therapy that aligns with their spiritual beliefs will appreciate My Counselor as it's one of the most comprehensive Christian counseling services available. With a reported 93.6% success rate, this platform integrates biblical wisdom with clinically proven therapy techniques, ensuring you receive spiritual guidance and professional mental health support.
Unlike general therapy platforms that may offer faith-based options as an afterthought, My Counselor is fully dedicated to Christian counseling. Its licensed therapists are trained in Neuroscience-Informed Christian Counseling, which combines evidence-based psychological techniques with biblical principles.
There are also a wide range of services, including individual mental health therapy, marriage counseling, premarital counseling and family therapy. Plus, My Counselor offers a risk-free guarantee: If you're unsatisfied with your first session, the platform will cover the cost and find you a better fit or provide a full refund, no questions asked.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Most | Medicare accepted: Yes | Medicaid accepted: Yes | Time until first appointment: Same day if in crisis | States available: 20 states (AK, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, KY, MD, NC, NJ, NM, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA and WV) and Washington, D.C. | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, couples therapy, family therapy | Notable features: Teen counseling, free treatment as needed
Military service brings distinct mental health challenges that don't disappear once duty ends. Combat trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reintegration struggles, relationship strain and career transitions are realities that many veterans and active-duty service members face — often without the understanding or support civilians might take for granted. Sadly, stigma, financial concerns and long Veterans' Affairs (VA) wait times prevent many from seeking the care they need. That's why Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is the best online therapy platform for veterans, offering fast, specialized and affordable care.
CVN is built exclusively for veterans, active-duty service members and their families. With a network of clinics across 20 states and virtual therapy options, CVN prioritizes fast access to high-quality care. Unlike VA services, which often involve long wait times, CVN makes it easy to get an appointment quickly, including same-day crisis support when needed.
CVN accepts most major insurance plans, including TRICARE, making therapy more affordable. For those without insurance, care is still available at little to no cost, ensuring financial barriers never prevent access to treatment.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Aetna, Cigna, First Health and more | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until first appointment: Unlisted | States available: Unlisted | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, family therapy, child and teen therapy | Notable features: Teen counseling, in-person therapy
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder are complex mental health conditions that impact physical and emotional well-being. Eating and Behavioral Health Associates is a leading option for people looking for evidence-based treatments for these disorders, as well as PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic health conditions. The team of experienced clinicians offers various services, including individual therapy, group therapy and online therapy options.
Eating and Behavioral Health Associates uses a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, integrating various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). It offers specialized programs for all ages. For younger clients, the focus is on empowering the individual and their families with strategies to regain peace and freedom from disordered eating behaviors. Adult therapy aims to provide tools and support for creating a more balanced and restored sense of well-being.
The platform offers online therapy services in Ohio and a few other states. However, the availability in specific states depends on the presence of licensed therapists in those regions. Therefore, you'll need to contact the company directly to confirm service availability in your state.
Insurance accepted: No | Insurance companies: N/A | Medicare accepted: No | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until first appointment: Unlisted | States available: 42 states, plus Washington, D. C. and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (not available in AK, CA, HI, IA, LA, MA, MT and OR) | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, family therapy, child and teen therapy | Notable features: Teen counseling, parenting support
Playful Therapy Connections is a leading choice for neurodivergent individuals due to its commitment to celebrating neurodiversity and affirming identities. The practice offers various services to meet the unique needs of neurodivergent children, teens, adults and families.
The platform focuses on play therapy, which leverages the natural medium of play to help people express themselves comfortably, leading to improved self-expression and behaviors. The practice offers individual therapy for adults, focusing on anxiety, depression and the challenges of navigating a neurotypical world. Therapists employ a person-centered approach, ensuring each person's unique experiences and perspectives are honored and integrated into the therapeutic process.
In addition to individual therapy, Playful Therapy Connections offers facilitated group sessions, which allow people to connect with peers, share experiences and build social skills in a supportive environment. Furthermore, the platform offers dedicated support and coaching to caregivers of neurodivergent children, helping equip them with strategies to support development and manage challenges.
Insurance accepted: Yes | Insurance companies: Many | Medicare accepted: Yes | Medicaid accepted: No | Time until first appointment: 24 hours | States available: All 50 states | Types of therapy offered: Individual talk therapy, family therapy | Notable features: Wellness programs for healthy aging
Aging is a privilege, but with it sometimes comes challenges that can impact your quality of life. Total Life is our leading choice for online therapy for older individuals as it addresses the mental health needs in this demographic, such as anxiety, depression, cognitive decline and chronic pain.
Total Life's experienced therapists are well-versed in addressing issues prevalent among older adults. The services are delivered through a secure, easy-to-use online platform, which ensures therapy is accessible to those with mobility challenges or limited access to transportation.
Connecting with a therapist is streamlined. Simply reach out via the website or phone, verify your coverage and you will be matched with a suitable therapist for your first session within 24 hours.
A significant advantage of Total Life is that it accepts Original Medicare, which can cover up to 100% of therapy costs. As a result, many people can access high-quality mental health services with no out-of-pocket expenses.
If you're experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, call or text the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) hotline at 800-950-6264 or call or text 988.
The Trevor Project offers a 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis intervention hotline for LGBTQ youth and their loved ones. Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678 or send a confidential instant message to a counselor through TrevorChat. More resources are available at thetrevorproject.org.
Searching for an online mental health provider can feel daunting. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection.
Fees: Many online therapy providers use a subscription model or charge fees that insurance may not cover, with costs varying based on your chosen services. Start by setting a weekly or monthly budget for therapy. If you're unsure where to begin, review your monthly expenses to see what you can realistically allocate, then multiply that amount by 12 and divide by 52 to estimate your weekly budget. If therapy isn't financially feasible right now, consider Circles, which offers free emotional support groups.
Type of care: Define the support you need — individual therapy, medication management for your child or a mix of personal and couples counseling for family concerns. Clarifying your needs will make finding the right mental health provider easier.
Insurance: More than 6 in 10 Yahoo survey respondents said finding a therapist who accepts their insurance was a top priority. However, not all online mental health providers take insurance. If that's a must for you, consider Amwell, which accepts over 40 insurance plans and operates in all 50 states. If you have Medicare or Medicaid, check their list of approved online therapy providers to see your options.
Therapists: Some platforms assign a therapist, while others let you choose. If having a say in your provider matters to you, look for services with a searchable directory where you can filter by gender, cultural background, treatment approach and other key criteria.
Availability: Not all providers operate nationwide. Before signing up, check that the platform has therapists licensed to practice in your state.
Appointments: For 21% of our survey respondents, finding a therapist with a flexible schedule was a top priority. However, availability varies widely. Some providers offer same-day sessions, while others have wait times of up to a month. If you need quick access to therapy, look for services with same-day or same-week appointments.
Medication management: 18.3% of our survey respondents cited the ability to receive a prescription as a key factor in choosing a therapist. If this is important to you, look for providers that offer psychiatric care, such as Amwell, Brightside or Talkspace.
We thoroughly researched more than 50 online therapy companies and directories, evaluating fees, provider quality, wait times, industry reputation, HIPAA compliance, cultural competency and any history of data breaches — an issue even large healthcare providers have faced.
To gain deeper insights, we surveyed 750 people who had tried online or in-person therapy to understand their experiences and perceptions. As a licensed mental health professional, I also applied my clinical expertise and firsthand experience with online platforms to vet each provider, ensuring I'd feel confident using any of them.
"Online therapy connects people seeking treatment with licensed mental health professionals through secure video calls, phone sessions or messaging platforms," explains Melodie Simmons, licensed professional counselor (LPC) and certified eating disorder specialist–consultant (CEDS-C) at Equip. "Clients can participate in therapy from the comfort of their homes with flexible scheduling options. Sessions function like in-person therapy, with therapists providing support and guidance tailored to each person's needs," she adds.
Research shows that online therapy can be as effective as in-person sessions for many people and mental health concerns. "There really isn't anything I can't do virtually with a client that I would be more capable of doing in person," says Cina Hoey, psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker.
In addition, virtual therapy's flexibility often leads to more consistent sessions, which can improve results. Online therapy may be a better fit if you prefer therapy from home or need a more adaptable schedule.
"One pro of online therapy is that it's very accessible. It's wonderful for people located in more remote locations or who may have issues with mobility that prevent them from seeking in-person help," notes Serle. "It's also very convenient and fairly affordable. Many online therapy platforms accept insurance," he continues.
Brooke Sprowl, licensed therapist, CEO and founder of My LA Therapy, also points out that online therapy is flexible and provides "a certain feeling of anonymity for the client." It's also more environmentally friendly as fewer cars are on the road.
"One significant con of online therapy is that you may not be able to reach your therapist outside of appointments," says Serle. Furthermore, "If you are in a crisis, you may be unable to reach your therapist quickly. Your only option might be to go to the nearest emergency room, which can be expensive."
Roma Williams, a licensed marriage and family therapist, author and founder of Unload It Therapy, agrees. She adds, "It may not be ideal for severe mental health crises that require immediate, in-person intervention." She also points out, "Some nuances in body language and energy shifts may be harder to pick up on." An example is someone tapping their partner to prevent them from saying something in the session.
Prices range from $0 to $500 per session, depending on the provider, platform and insurance coverage. "Some therapists charge per session, while others offer subscription-based models," explains Simmons. "Many insurance plans cover virtual sessions, and some therapists offer sliding-scale fees for those with financial limitations."
Note that higher costs are typically associated with specialties like medication management or couples therapy.
Online therapy services must follow regulations to protect client confidentiality, including securing session content and digital data. "A therapist should do everything they can to ensure confidentiality, from using a HIPAA-compliant platform to securing client documentation and ensuring they are in a private location," says Hoey. However, privacy isn't just the therapist's responsibility — clients must also take precautions, like choosing a secure setting for sessions.
Despite strict regulations, some therapy platforms, including BetterHelp, have faced scrutiny for sharing sensitive client data. "It's important to ensure your clinician is utilizing a HIPAA-compliant EHR and video system," adds Paruolo. While many services have improved their privacy measures, reviewing privacy policies and opting out of data sharing where possible is always wise.
Start by identifying your needs — do you want a therapist with a specific background, identity or expertise? "Look for someone whose expertise aligns with your needs, but more importantly, someone you feel comfortable opening up to. A strong therapeutic connection is key to progress," advises Williams. Many platforms match you automatically, while others let you choose from a list. If you don't connect with your therapist, switch.
The right therapist should make you feel understood, supported and comfortable. "Finding a therapist you connect with is deeply personal and might not look the same for everyone," says Paruolo. "The right therapist should have you feeling three inches taller after a session and foster a nonjudgmental environment."
"For beginners, starting with a talk therapist who can help you sort out some issues is more manageable," adds Navjot Hughes, psychiatry nurse practitioner, psychotherapist, emotional intelligence coach and founder at Empower Mental Health. Many therapists offer free consultations, so leverage them to find the right fit.
Yes, in most cases. "Many psychiatrists, physician assistants and nurse practitioners who provide telehealth services can prescribe medication, though regulations vary by state," says Simmons. If medication is part of your treatment plan, ensure your provider is licensed in your state and experienced in treating your condition.
"This is an excellent option for those in rural areas, where prescribers can be scarce," adds Williams. However, controlled substances may have additional restrictions, so it's important to check state regulations and your provider's prescribing capabilities.
BetterHelp: One of the largest online therapy platforms, BetterHelp connects users with thousands of licensed therapists and offers flexible communication options, including video, phone, messaging and live chat. While its subscription-based pricing can be more affordable than traditional therapy, it doesn't accept insurance, making it costly for some.
7 Cups: This platform provides free emotional support through trained listeners and low-cost therapy with licensed professionals. It also has an extensive peer support community with forums covering various mental health topics. However, 7 Cups is primarily a peer support platform, not a full therapy service. While it can be helpful for emotional check-ins and short-term support, it lacks structured therapy options and specialized mental health treatment, making it less comprehensive than other platforms on our list.
Cerebral: A subscription-based mental health service that includes both therapy and medication management for conditions like anxiety and depression. It also accepts insurance, making it more affordable for some users. However, it is primarily focused on medication management rather than therapy-first approaches.
Teladoc Health: As a broader telehealth platform, Teladoc provides access to medical and mental health care, including therapy and psychiatry. It accepts insurance and works with many major providers, making it a cost-effective option if you have coverage. However, mental health is not its primary focus, and the therapist selection process is more limited than that of dedicated mental health platforms.
Doctor on Demand: This platform provides on-demand therapy and psychiatry, including prescription services. It accepts insurance, making it a convenient option for medical and mental health care in one place. However, therapy sessions can be expensive without insurance, with costs reaching up to $299 per visit.
Cina Hoey, psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker
Navjot (Navi) Hughes, psychiatry nurse practitioner, psychotherapist, emotional intelligence coach and founder at Empower Mental Health
Jay Serle, licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical psychologist
Melodie Simmons, licensed professional counselor (LPC) and certified eating disorder specialist–consultant (CEDS-C) at Equip
Brooke Sprowl, licensed therapist, CEO and founder of My LA Therapy
Roma Williams, licensed marriage and family therapist, author and founder of Unload It Therapy
Brianna Paruolo, psychotherapist, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and founder of On Par Therapy
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
