The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health and the Rise of BetterHelp
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of many Americans, as revealed by a March 2021 Pew Research Center report. Approximately one-fifth of U.S. adults report experiencing “high levels of psychological distress,” with 28% stating that the pandemic has drastically altered their lives.
Similarly, the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) reported that the pandemic has introduced new barriers to help for individuals already struggling with substance abuse or other mental health issues. Due to public health concerns, face-to-face mental health services were not readily available, leading many to turn to online therapy platforms like BetterHelp.
Professional Therapy, Done Online
- Prices vary and start at $65/week
- Users can be matched with one of over 35,000 licensed therapists in as little as 24 hours
- Over 4 million people have received support through BetterHelp
- Subscription includes a weekly one-on-one session and optional group session, journaling, worksheets, goal setting, and more
- Ability to switch therapists or cancel at any time
BetterHelp Overview
Key Points
- Usability: Easy sign-up process and pairing with a therapist experienced in your specific issues.
- Quality of Care: All therapists have advanced degrees and a minimum of three years and 1,000 hours of experience.
- Billing and Customer Service: Offers flexible billing options and responsive customer service.
Pros of BetterHelp
- Access to counselors via text, live chat, video, and phone sessions.
- Ability to switch therapists until you find the right fit.
- Helpful and responsive customer service.
Cons of BetterHelp
- Automatic matching with a counselor; the option to choose your own therapist is not prominently displayed.
About BetterHelp
Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, BetterHelp is the world’s largest online counseling platform. It offers therapy through messaging, live chat, video, and phone sessions, accessible via smartphone, computer, or tablet.
BetterHelp employs accredited psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and board-licensed professional counselors. Each therapist holds a master’s or doctorate and has at least three years and 1,000 hours of experience. Only about 15% of applicants are accepted to the platform, ensuring high-quality care.
How BetterHelp Works
To get started, visit BetterHelp’s homepage and select your preferred type of therapy—individual, couples, or teen. After completing a short questionnaire, you’ll be matched with a therapist, typically within 24 hours. If the initial match isn’t suitable, you can request a different therapist.
Sessions can be scheduled for live chat, phone, or video calls through your account.
Who Should Use BetterHelp?
BetterHelp is ideal for those seeking support for:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Addictions
- Eating disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Parenting issues
- Anger
- Trauma
- Family and marital conflicts
- LGBTQ matters
- Grief
- Religion-related issues
Who Should Not Use BetterHelp?
BetterHelp is not suitable for individuals experiencing:
- Suicidal thoughts or intentions to harm others
- Severe mental illness diagnoses
- Urgent crises or emergencies
- Situations requiring therapy under court order
- Those without a reliable internet connection
Make Time For Yourself, In Therapy
No more waiting days, weeks or even months to find a therapist. Sign up with BetterHelp and you can get matched to a therapist within 48 hours.
Subscription and Cost
BetterHelp’s subscription provides access to four weeks of unlimited messaging in a private counseling room and one 30-minute live session per week, with options for longer sessions upon counselor approval. Subscriptions can be canceled anytime with a prorated refund for unused services.
Counseling prices range from $60 to $90 per week, with weekly, monthly, or quarterly payment plans available. Financial aid is also an option.
Insurance and Medicare
BetterHelp’s services are generally not covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. However, it’s advisable to check with your insurance provider for potential reimbursements.
Canceling Your Subscription
You can cancel your subscription anytime by accessing your account settings and selecting “Quit therapy.” Follow the steps for erasure of personal information, and BetterHelp will confirm your cancellation via email.
Communication Methods
BetterHelp offers multiple communication methods:
- Messaging: Private messages in the therapy room.
- Phone sessions: Schedule through the calendar function.
- Video sessions: Schedule through the calendar function.
- Live chat: Schedule through the calendar function.
Prescriptions and Diagnoses
BetterHelp counselors cannot prescribe medication or make official mental health diagnoses due to the platform’s online nature.
BetterHelp Experience
In a personal experience, BetterHelp provided effective counseling for stress and anxiety related to caregiving and family conflicts. The platform’s ease of use, coupled with competent and empathetic therapists, made the therapy experience comparable to traditional in-person sessions.
Final Thoughts
BetterHelp is an excellent option for online counseling for various mental health issues. However, for severe mental health conditions or crises, in-person therapy with a qualified professional is recommended. In emergencies, always call 911.