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Why BetterHelp? Evaluating Cost and Safety

Reviewed by Laura Angers, LPC · July 29, 2022 ·

BetterHelp is revolutionizing the way people seek mental health help, and the platform is known to offer personalized services and tailored therapeutic resources for users. 

As BetterHelp becomes increasingly popular, many people are wondering if the platform is safe, how much a subscription is, and whether BetterHelp is the best platform available. We’re here today to answer some of the most common questions from potential users about the BetterHelp platform.

Let’s begin!

How Much Is A Subscription To BetterHelp?

BetterHelp offers monthly subscriptions starting at $65 per week depending on location, availability of therapists, and needs. There are many options to lower the cost due to financial need, and users should reach out to BetterHelp customer support to discuss any financial trouble. 

One thing to remember is that traditional in-person counseling sessions often cost between $75-150, and insurance does not always cover these visits. At BetterHelp, users are also able to message their therapist on the platform.

What Is The Most Affordable Online Counseling?

BetterHelp is one of the most affordable online therapy platforms, in addition to ReGain, 7 Cups, and Faithful Counseling. Other options include Amwell, Talkspace, Teen Counseling, and Pride Counseling.

 

Is BetterHelp Religious?

BetterHelp offers religious and non-religious options when choosing a counselor. BetterHelp understands that counseling can often be improved by matching therapists and patients with similar ideologies and core values, but this is ultimately up to the user to indicate their preferences in this area.

Faithful Counseling is an affiliate service to BetterHelp that specifically offers Christian-based counseling services.

How Long Are Betterhelp Sessions?

BetterHelp live sessions are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, but multiple of these blocks can be scheduled in tandem. One live session can be scheduled at a time, and you and your mental health professional will work to find a time that is best for both of you. If you have a preference in length of the session, it is important to discuss this during your initial introductions.

Is It Easy To Cancel BetterHelp?

BetterHelp can be canceled at any time, and for any reason.

To cancel your BetterHelp account, follow these steps:

  1. Log into your BetterHelp account
  2. If you are currently receiving therapy, go to Menu > My Account (or Account settings) > Payment settings > Quit Therapy
  3. Then go to Menu > My Account (or Account settings) > and click on Request

A confirmation will be sent to the email address on your account once your request is processed.

Can I Choose My Therapist On BetterHelp?

BetterHelp has thousands of therapists and counselors on the platform, and it can be difficult for users to look through the thousands of available options. The process can feel overwhelming, and users sometimes have questions about what factors to look for, and what may or may not make a therapist a good match for them. Because of this, BetterHelp matches users with therapists and counselors based on their answers to questionnaires and indicated preferences.

Many times, these matches are successful and the user and the therapist are able to work together well. However, at BetterHelp, it is understood that sometimes these matches do not work out. Users have the ability to change their therapist or counselor at any time, for free. All users need to do is click the “change therapist” link or let BetterHelp support know they would like to switch therapists. The portal with notify your existing therapist and let them know you have decided another person’s perspective or methods may be better suited for you. Therapists and counselors on the site understand that it is important you find the best match for you, so do not feel uncomfortable or guilty if you request a different therapist.

Each therapist or counselor will have a different approach to the treatment program, so it may take time to find the exact right match for you. However, this is meant to be a lasting relationship, so it is worth making sure you are confident in your match!

 

Are Faithful Counseling And Betterhelp The Same?

Faithful Counseling is a part of the BetterHelp platform, but it is not the same. BetterHelp offers therapeutic mental health help for people of all religions, and users are able to indicate their preferences regarding whether religion is incorporated into their sessions and whether their therapist is religious. 

At Faithful Counseling, therapists help users with overcoming mental health obstacles and working through challenging mental health conditions. The goal is for users to be able to improve their quality of life and achieve their life goals. Mental health professional employed by Faithful Counseling have expertise in a number of areas, including:

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Eating disorders
  • Grief
  • Self esteem
  • Addictions
  • Relationship problems
  • Sleeping disorders
  • Family conflicts
  • Trauma
  • Other mental health concerns

 

In addition to this, BetterHelp carefully screens therapists and counselors to ensure they are a good fit for the platform. This includes credentials, experience, criminal history, and willingness to comply with BetterHelp platform standards.

Final Words

Recent studies have found that online counseling can be as effective as traditional face-to-face counseling, and therapeutic experts at BetterHelp take pride in helping people all over the world receive high-quality and affordable mental health help. 

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