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BetterHelp Review: Your-Pants-Optional Couch Therapy

Updated on August 20, 2024

Feel like you’re getting hit with a few too many curveballs in life? You are definitely not alone. From the daily grind to relationship drama, or how you keep your sanity intact, we all reach a point where we might need a little help. This is where BetterHelp swoops in, like a digital superhero, providing therapy at your convenience. No more waiting rooms or small talk with the receptionist; it’s you, your therapist, and a Wi-Fi connection.

Disclosure: We receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided on this page. This commission helps support our work, and we only recommend products and services that we believe will benefit our readers.

The Lowdown on BetterHelp

BetterHelp is the Netflix of therapy. A few taps on your phone, and voilà—you are matched with a licensed therapist who will walk you through whatever life decides to throw your way. And here’s the best part: You can do it all from the safety of your home.

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Get started today and enjoy 20% off your first month.

Is BetterHelp Right For You?

BetterHelp is right for anyone who wants the convenience of accessing therapy from virtually anywhere. If you’re juggling a hectic schedule, prefer the flexibility of choosing between messaging, phone calls, or video sessions, or simply want to explore therapy without the traditional barriers, BetterHelp could be a great fit. It’s especially ideal for:

  • Busy professionals: If your 9-to-5 (or more like 9-to-9) leaves little room for in-person appointments, BetterHelp’s flexibility is a game-changer.
  • Students: Whether you’re navigating college stress or post-grad life, BetterHelp offers affordable support that fits into your unpredictable schedule.
  • Stay-at-home parents: Finding time for yourself when you’re chasing after kids? BetterHelp allows you to get the support you need during naptime or after bedtime.
  • People in remote areas: If you live far from the nearest therapist or in a place with limited mental health resources, BetterHelp brings therapy right to your fingertips.
  • Those who value privacy: If you’re not ready to meet face-to-face with a therapist, BetterHelp’s discreet messaging and virtual sessions offer a low-pressure way to start.

While BetterHelp is great for many, it might not be the best choice if you’re dealing with severe mental health issues that require in-person attention or specialized care that BetterHelp doesn’t offer. But for most, it’s a convenient, accessible, and affordable way to get the mental health support you need.

Pros:

  • Convenience is Key:
    • BetterHelp fits into your life, not the other way around. Early riser? Night owl? Doesn’t matter. You can schedule sessions whenever it suits you. Log in, and you’re good to go—no commuting or even putting on real pants.
  • Matching Your Therapist:
    • It’s like Tinder but for your mental health. You fill in a questionnaire, and then BetterHelp does its best to pair you with someone who really vibes right for what you need. And if it isn’t a perfect match? That’s totally fine; you can switch therapists around until you find “the one.”
  • Affordable-ish:
    • Therapy can be very expensive, but BetterHelp is often much more affordable than traditional in-person therapy. Subscription plans grant access to your therapist via messages, live chat, phone, or video—whichever you prefer.
  • Discreet:
    • If sitting down and talking with a professional face-to-face sounds too overwhelming to handle, at least BetterHelp has your back. You can message your therapist, which sometimes takes less courage to be more open without the fear of actually being in a live session.
  • Accessibility:
    • Whether you’re located in a bustling metropolis or somewhere rural with very limited mental health resources, BetterHelp brings therapy right to the screen. It can really be a game-changer for those who otherwise would not be able to find the help that they need.
Photo: BetterHelp

Cons:

  • Not For Everyone:
    • While BetterHelp truly is fantastic for many people, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re really struggling with serious mental health issues, you may need more intensive, in-person care that BetterHelp can’t provide.
  • Insurance Coverage:
    • BetterHelp doesn’t take insurance, and this might be a dealbreaker if you have become accustomed to having your therapy costs partly covered by your health plan. It often works out cheaper than traditional therapy sessions anyway, so everything may balance out in your favor.
  • Potential Tech Issues:
    • Like with any online service, you may encounter some tech issues—draggy video calls or the app just crashing. While these little misfortunes are usually not of consequence, they can be frustrating if you’re in the middle of a serious conversation.
  • Therapist Variability:
    • While BetterHelp has an enormous pool of licensed therapists, how these professionals have garnered experience and exactly what their approach is might vary widely. It may take some time to find a person who really understands you and your specific needs and communication style.
Photo: BetterHelp

Exclusive 20% Off Discount

Get started today and enjoy 20% off your first month.

What Issues Does BetterHelp Address?

While BetterHelp addresses a very wide range of mental health-related and personal problems, it is still not limited to the following:

  • Anxiety: With BetterHelp, you will be able to deal with and decrease anxiety symptoms, either general or specific phobias.
  • Depression: Whether situational or a little more chronic, BetterHelp is always ready to help you deal with and recover from depression.
  • Stress Management: Therapists on BetterHelp can help users find ways to manage and reduce stress when the pressures of life become too overwhelming.
  • Relationship Issues: BetterHelp can help in resolving conflicts and improving communication in romantic relationships, family dynamics, and friendships.
  • Self-Esteem: BetterHelp provides therapy and resources for low self-worth or confidence, helping a user build a stronger sense of self.
  • Trauma and PTSD: BetterHelp specializes in therapy for all those suffering from trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Grief and Loss: If you have lost someone very close to you, then our BetterHelp therapists are there to support and guide you in working through your emotions.
  • Anger Management: If you think that you often lose control over your anger, then BetterHelp is the place to learn strategies and techniques for managing and channeling your anger in a much healthier way.
  • Career Challenges: Be it job stress, career transitions, or work-life balance, BetterHelp can help find solutions and clarity.
  • LGBTQ+ Issues: BetterHelp is there for the LGBTQ+ community, be it for issues related to your identity, discrimination, or relationships.
  • Parenting Issues: BetterHelp gives guidance and support for parents struggling with the stresses of raising children.
  • Addiction and Substance Abuse Issues: BetterHelp helps clients cope and overcome addictions through therapy treatments.
  • Eating Disorders: BetterHelp offers therapy related to food, body image, and eating disorders.
  • Life Transitions: BetterHelp can help a person navigate the emotional aspects of change, whether moving, switching jobs, or other major life changes.
  • Sleep and Insomnia Issues: BetterHelp will offer you methods and support if you are experiencing sleep-related problems.
  • Chronic Illness: BetterHelp will let one discuss and cope with emotional issues related to chronic illness.
  • Family Conflicts: BetterHelp offers support in working through and resolving family conflicts.
  • Personal Growth: If you are looking to grow as a person, achieve some goals, and develop healthier habits, then BetterHelp can help guide you through that process.

Exclusive 20% Off Discount

Get started today and enjoy 20% off your first month.

Final Thoughts:

BetterHelp is a modern solution to an age-old problem: finding the right support when you need it most. It is handy, available, and has variations that can connect you with a therapist who will help guide you through life’s challenges. While it might not be perfect for everyone, it is something anyone seeking flexible and affordable therapy that will fit into their lives on their own terms should consider.

So, should you swipe right on BetterHelp? If convenience, affordability, and accessibility rank high on your list, then absolutely. Just bear in mind that much like any relationship, finding the right therapist might take a little time. But once you do, it could be a match made in mental health heaven.

BetterHelp FAQs

Kevin O'Shea
Kevin O'Shea

About: Kevin O'Shea is a co-founder of Seek & Score and serves as the self appointed "Editor-in-Chief". Born with a deep passion for adventure and the outdoors, Kevin has always been drawn to nature and all the adventures it has to offer. Kevin grew up surfing everyday, skateboarding when the surf was bad, and snowboarding in the winter. Currently he enjoys surfing, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, trail running, barbecuing, camping, riding motorcycles, off-roading, swimming, and cruising on his e-bikes with his kids. As his wife would put it, Kevin as too many hobbies. Experience: As an outdoor enthusiast and gear-o-holic, Kevin has always been intrigued by the latest gear and equipment on the market. His first job was working in the R&D department of Patagonia. He has a keen eye for quality and durability, and he appreciates products that are built to last. Kevin believes in the philosophy of "buy once, use forever," and he is always on the lookout for products that can withstand the test of time. Education BS degree in Economics from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, CA.

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