BetterHelp Cost With Insurance: What You Need to Know

In 2019, an estimated 19% of adults suffered from a mental illness, but only 43% received any kind of mental health treatment according to the National Institute of Mental Health. While there are various factors that prevent people from getting the necessary mental health care, a major reason is due to cost and insurance coverage. However, services like BetterHelp have offered affordable online therapy to help bridge the gap.

BetterHelp is the largest online therapy platform that offers a range of mental health services, including counseling and therapy sessions. With a network of over 30,000 licensed therapists, they have helped millions of people take control of their mental health and work towards their personal goal. 

One of the most common questions people ask is about their prices and whether insurance covers it. Therefore, in this article we will explore BetterHelp’s pricing structure and insurance coverage options to help you determine if this platform is an option for you. As we delve deeper into the online therapy platform’s plans, we will provide tips on how to maximize the benefits while keeping costs low. 

Understanding BetterHelp’s Pricing Structure

BetterHelp is a popular online therapy platform that connects people with licensed therapists who have a master’s or doctoral degree in their field. The platform offers weekly therapy sessions, unlimited messaging with your therapist, and the use of an online journal.

BetterHelp offers a subscription-based pricing structure for its online therapy services. The platform’s membership cost ranges from $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks). The exact cost for therapy sessions is often based on the therapist you work with, your location and your preferences.

With a subscription, users can expect to receive weekly therapy sessions, unlimited messaging with their therapist and the use of an online journal. The platform does not accept insurance, but the costs of online therapy services may be covered in some cases. In addition, BetterHelp offers financial aid and reduced subscription costs for people who qualify, which is about the same price as an insurance co-pay. 

It’s important to note that the cost of online therapy services through BetterHelp can be more affordable than traditional in-person therapy. According to BetterHelp, users can save a few hundred dollars a month by using their online therapy services, making the platform an ideal option for those on a tight budget. They also provide straightforward and transparent pricing to ensure trust and peace of mind throughout their client’s therapeutic journey. 

Insurance Coverage for Online Therapy

One of the main concerns people have when considering online therapy is whether or not it is covered by insurance. Unfortunately, BetterHelp does not accept insurance as some traditional in-person therapists do. However, their low-cost sessions, financial aid options and ease of convenience can make online therapy a valid competitor for in-person services.

The platform’s membership cost is approximately $65-$90 a week (billed every four weeks), which is a lower cost than most in-person therapy sessions without insurance coverage. However, some insurance plans may offer reimbursement for online therapy services. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for virtual therapy sessions. If they do, you may be able to submit a claim to reimburse for the cost. 

How to Determine if BetterHelp is Covered by Your Insurance

Determining if BetterHelp is covered by your insurance can be a simple process. The first step is to check with your insurance provider. Most insurance providers have an online portal where you can find out whether online therapy is covered. You can also call your insurance company directly to inquire about coverage.

To determine if your insurance provider offers reimbursement for online therapy services, you can ask the following questions:

• Does my insurance plan cover online therapy services?
• What is the reimbursement rate for online therapy services?
• What is the process for submitting a claim for reimbursement?

Take note that some insurance providers may have restrictions on the type of therapy services that are covered. For example, they may only cover therapy services for certain mental health conditions or may require pre-authorization for therapy services. Hence, it’s important to speak with your insurance provider to determine if BetterHelp is covered and what the reimbursement process is like. 

Steps to Use Insurance for BetterHelp

Using insurance for BetterHelp therapy sessions is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Check your insurance policy: Before signing up for BetterHelp, check your insurance policy to see if it covers online therapy. Some insurance policies may require you to use specific providers or may not cover online therapy at all.
   
2. Sign up for BetterHelp: Once you have verified that your insurance covers online therapy, sign up for BetterHelp. During the sign-up process, you will be asked to provide your insurance information.
   
3. Verify your insurance: After you sign up, BetterHelp will verify your insurance coverage. This process can take a few days, and you will be notified by email once your insurance has been verified.
   
4. Schedule a session: Once your insurance has been verified, you can schedule a session with a licensed therapist. You will be able to choose from a list of therapists who are covered by your insurance.
   
5. Pay your co-pay: Depending on your insurance policy, you may be required to pay a co-pay for each therapy session. You can pay your co-pay using a credit card or PayPal.
   
6. Attend your session: On the day of your therapy session, log in to your BetterHelp account and attend your session. You can attend your session using your computer or mobile device.

By following these steps, you can use your insurance to pay for BetterHelp therapy sessions. Be sure to call your insurance company and ask what your benefits are for mental health and if BetterHelp’s online therapy services are reimbursable . 

Alternatives to Insurance Coverage

While BetterHelp does not accept insurance, there are other options available for those seeking affordable mental health care. Here are some alternatives to insurance coverage:

Sliding Scale Therapy

Many therapists and mental health clinics offer sliding scale therapy, which means the cost of therapy is based on the client’s income. This can be a more affordable option for those who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover mental health care.

Employee Assistance Programs

Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide free or low-cost mental health services to employees and their families. These programs can include counseling, therapy and other mental health services.

Non-Profit Organizations

There are many non-profit organizations that offer mental health services at little or no cost. These organizations may offer counseling, therapy, support groups and other resources for those in need.

Online Therapy Platforms

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp can be a more affordable alternative to traditional in-person therapy, even without insurance coverage. These platforms offer access to licensed therapists and counselors who can provide support and guidance for a range of mental health concerns. Some online therapy platforms also offer financial assistance programs for those who cannot afford therapy.

In conclusion, there are many alternatives to insurance coverage for those seeking affordable mental health care. Take the time to explore all of your options in order to find the best fit for your individual needs and preferences. 

Financial Assistance and Sliding Scale Options

BetterHelp offers financial assistance and sliding scale options for those who need it. According to BetterHelp’s website, their sliding scale rates are usually dictated by the Federal Poverty Guidelines and the Bureau of Primary Healthcare, a United States department within the Human Services & Resources Administration (HSRA). The sliding scale can vary for each one-on-one practice, but it is usually based on income and other factors.

BetterHelp also offers a financial aid program to make mental health care more accessible and affordable for those who need it. They offer up to 50% off their services for anyone who meets their qualifications. According to Psych Times, the qualifications for financial aid include:

• Being a full-time student
• Being unemployed
• Being a veteran
• Being a single parent
• Being a victim of a natural disaster
• Being a victim of domestic violence

BetterHelp also offers a referral program where users can receive a free week of counseling for every person they refer who signs up for BetterHelp. This can help offset the cost of counseling for those who need it. 

While BetterHelp does not directly accept insurance, including Medicare or Medicaid, their sessions typically cost less or about as much as the co-payments for in-office visits. They also provide receipts that users can submit to their insurance companies for potential reimbursements. 

Overall, BetterHelp offers a variety of financial assistance options to make counseling more accessible and affordable for those who need it.

Maximizing Benefits: Tips for Affordable Therapy

While BetterHelp does not accept insurance directly, there are still ways to make therapy more affordable for those with insurance coverage. Here are some tips to help you maximize your benefits:

1. Check your insurance coverage

Before starting therapy, it is important to check your insurance coverage. While BetterHelp may not be directly covered, your insurance plan may cover out-of-network mental health services. Check with your insurance company to see what your options are and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.

2. Utilize your HSA or FSA

Online therapy is considered a qualified medical expense through many Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) programs. This means that you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for therapy, potentially saving you money.

3. Look for sliding scale options

If you do not have insurance or your insurance does not cover therapy, some therapists offer sliding scale options based on your income to fit your budget. 

4. Consider group therapy

Group therapy can be a more affordable option than individual therapy. Many therapists offer group therapy sessions that can be more cost-effective while still providing the benefits of therapy.

5. Ask about discounts or promotions

BetterHelp occasionally offers discounts or promotions for new clients. It is worth asking if any discounts or promotions are available when you sign up for therapy.

By utilizing these tips, you can make therapy more affordable and accessible. Remember that investing in your mental health is always worth it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BetterHelp is an affordable online therapy option for many people. It operates on a subscription model, which means your fee covers multiple sessions and other communication with your counselor. While it does not accept insurance, the platform’s membership cost is approximately $65-$90 a week (billed every four weeks). The exact cost for therapy sessions is often based on the therapist you work with, your location and your preferences.

BetterHelp has an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Better Business Bureau (BBB) from over 500 customer reviews. It also has an A- rating from the site, which is based on various factors such as complaint history, transparency, and honesty.

In conclusion, BetterHelp can be a great option for those seeking affordable and convenient therapy. However, it is important to note that online therapy may not be suitable for everyone. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your mental health needs.

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