If you’ve been considering getting help for mental illness, you’re not alone. 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. This is due to stigma, cost and accessibility, but services like BetterHelp have offered online therapy to help bridge the gap.
BetterHelp is a popular online therapy platform offering convenient and affordable mental health services that can be accessed from the comfort of one’s home. While different forms of therapy can offer support, virtual therapy continues to grow after a massive increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, some people wonder if online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy.
In-person therapy has been the traditional way of accessing mental health services for many years. It involves meeting with a therapist face-to-face in their office or clinic, offering a more personal connection. Although, this type of therapy can be more expensive and less convenient than online therapy. Therefore, in this article we will compare the effectiveness of BetterHelp and face-to-face therapy in order for you to select the best option for your mental health needs.
BetterHelp’s Online Therapy VS In-Person Therapy
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects users with licensed therapists through video, phone, and text-based communication. This format allows clients to receive therapy with minimal effort when it comes to being present for appointments. However, in-person therapy involves meeting with a therapist face-to-face in a clinical setting.
Both BetterHelp and in-person therapy have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, but the decision to choose one over the other will depend on individual preferences and needs. Below we will discuss the pros and cons between BetterHelp and in-person therapy:
1. Accessibility and Convenience
One of the main advantages of online therapy is the ability to access therapy from the comfort of one’s own home or any location of their choosing. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who live in rural areas with limited access to mental health services. BetterHelp offers 24/7 access to therapy sessions, which can be scheduled at a time that is convenient for the client. This flexibility can be especially helpful for individuals with busy schedules who may find it difficult to attend in-person therapy sessions.
On the other hand, traditional in-person therapy requires the client to travel to a physical location for therapy sessions. This can be a challenge for individuals who live far away or have limited transportation options. It may also be inconvenient for those who have work or school as therapy sessions are typically scheduled during regular business hours.
2. Insurance Coverage
BetterHelp and in-person therapy both have their own unique cost structures. One of the biggest differences between BetterHelp and in-person therapy is the availability of insurance coverage. While many in-person therapists accept insurance, BetterHelp does not currently accept insurance, although some insurance plans may cover the cost of virtual therapy. Be sure to speak with your insurance provider to discuss your options.
3. Cost
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as location, therapist experience and length of session. BetterHelp offers a subscription model where clients pay a weekly or monthly fee of $60 to $90 for unlimited access to therapy. This can be a more convenient option for those who prefer to pay in advance and not worry about payment during each session.
In-person therapy typically has an average cost of $100 to $200 for each session and requires payment at the time of the session, either through cash, check or credit card. This means BetterHelp may be a more affordable option in the long-run, while in-person therapy may be a more cost-effective choice for those who only need therapy on an occasional basis. Plus, some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income, making in-person therapy more affordable for those on a tight budget.
4. Communication Methods
BetterHelp offers text-based therapy, which allows clients to communicate with their therapist through written messages. This can be a convenient option for clients who prefer to communicate in writing or who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. BetterHelp also offers audio and video options where clients can have real-time conversations with their therapist.
In-person therapy, on the other hand, typically only offers face-to-face communication between the client and therapist. This can be helpful for those who have difficulty expressing themselves through writing. It also allows non-verbal communication such as body language and facial expressions, which can be important in building a therapeutic relationship. However, this can be inconvenient for those who have busy schedules or live far from their therapist’s office.
5. Therapist Qualifications and Selection
BetterHelp verifies the credentials of all therapists on their platform to ensure they are licensed and qualified to provide therapy. They also require therapists to provide proof of their qualifications and undergo a background check. With their streamlined process, they use a matching algorithm to pair clients with therapists based on their needs and preferences. In addition, clients have the option to choose their own therapist if they prefer.
However, in-person therapy may require clients to do their own research on verifying a therapist’s credentials. They will also need to find a therapist who can meet their needs, which may be a challenge.
6. Privacy and Confidentiality
BetterHelp claims to take data security seriously and uses encryption and other security measures to protect the data of their clients. They offer anonymity options such as the ability to use a nickname rather than their real name and the ability to use a fake email address. They also use third-party services to ensure that their data is secure.
However, in 2023 the FTC found that BetterHelp had pushed people into handing over their health information and had broken privacy promises. This case underscores the critical importance of upholding privacy promises, although a proposed FTC settlement with BetterHelp is in the works to show how any breach of trust can have significant repercussions.
On the other hand, in-therapy does not offer anonymity options, as clients are required to provide their real name and other personal information. They also do not rely on technology to store client data and is less vulnerable to data breaches, although the physical records of clients may be just as vulnerable to theft or loss. Therefore, it’s important for therapists to take appropriate measures to secure their physical records.
7. Customer Service
BetterHelp offers customer support through email, phone and chat. The platform provides a 24/7 chat service, making it convenient for clients to get help when they need it. Clients can also schedule a live session with their therapist if they need immediate assistance. BetterHelp’s customer service team is responsive and helpful, ensuring that clients can get the support they need.
In contrast, traditional therapy typically only offers support during scheduled appointments. Clients may have to wait several days or even weeks to speak with their therapist if they need immediate assistance. This lack of availability can be frustrating for clients who need support outside of their scheduled appointments.
8. Supplementary Materials
BetterHelp provides clients with supplementary materials to help them manage their mental health. These resources include worksheets, articles and videos on various mental health topics. Clients can access these materials through their BetterHelp account, making it easy to access them at any time.
Traditional therapy may not offer these supplementary materials, leaving clients without additional resources to manage their mental health. Clients may have to rely on their therapist for additional resources, which may not be practical or feasible.
Effectiveness of Online Therapy
Research and Outcomes
According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for treating depression and anxiety. The study found that patients who received online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) had similar outcomes to those who received in-person CBT. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that online therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military veterans.
In-person therapy has also been shown to be effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions. A review of studies published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that in-person therapy was effective in treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Client Satisfaction
Client satisfaction is an important factor when considering the effectiveness of therapy. According to a study published in the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, clients who received online therapy reported high levels of satisfaction with the treatment they received. The study found that clients who received online therapy had similar levels of satisfaction to those who received in-person therapy.
BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, reports high levels of client satisfaction on its website. According to the company, 98% of clients are satisfied with the service they receive and 94% would recommend BetterHelp to a friend.
In-person therapy also has high levels of client satisfaction. A study published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology found that clients who received in-person therapy reported high levels of satisfaction with the treatment they received.
In conclusion, both online therapy and in-person therapy have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions and clients report high levels of satisfaction with both types of therapy.
Special Considerations
When it comes to mental health treatment, there are certain special considerations that individuals may need to take into account when deciding between BetterHelp and in-person therapy. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
Emergency Situations
In the case of an emergency, it’s important to have immediate access to mental health care. While BetterHelp offers messaging, live chat and phone sessions, these options may not be appropriate for emergency situations. In-person therapy may be a better option for those who need immediate assistance.
Long-Term Therapy Needs
For individuals who require long-term therapy, in-person therapy may be a better option. While BetterHelp offers unlimited messaging and live chat sessions, some individuals may benefit from the consistency and accountability of in-person therapy. In-person therapy also allows for a more personalized and tailored approach to treatment.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between BetterHelp’s online therapy and in-person therapy, it’s important to consider one’s needs and preferences. BetterHelp offers convenience, affordability and accessibility to therapy services. Users can connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of their own homes, via their computer, smartphone or tablet. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in remote areas, have mobility issues or have busy schedules.
In-person therapy, on the other hand, offers a more traditional approach to therapy. It provides face-to-face interaction with a therapist, which may be preferred by some individuals. It also offers a more personalized experience, as therapists can tailor their approach to the individual’s specific needs. Therefore, with each type of therapy having unique advantages and disadvantages, it’s important to determine which approach best suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between in-person therapy and online platforms like BetterHelp?
In-person therapy sessions are conducted face-to-face, while online therapy sessions are conducted remotely using a computer or mobile device. In-person therapy sessions may offer a more personalized experience, as therapists can observe nonverbal cues and body language. Online therapy may be more convenient and accessible for individuals who cannot attend in-person sessions due to location, mobility issues or time constraints.
How does the effectiveness of online therapy compare to traditional in-person sessions?
Studies have shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, the effectiveness of therapy depends on various factors, including the individual’s specific needs, the therapist’s qualifications and experience and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
What are the cost comparisons between using BetterHelp and engaging in in-person therapy?
The cost of therapy varies depending on location and the therapist’s experience and qualifications. In general, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may be more affordable than in-person therapy, as they do not require overhead costs associated with maintaining a physical office. However, some individuals may prefer the personalized experience of in-person therapy and be willing to pay a higher cost.
What are the main benefits associated with in-person therapy over online services?
In-person therapy sessions offer a more personalized experience, as therapists can observe nonverbal cues and body language. In-person therapy sessions may also offer a sense of connection and community, as individuals can interact with others in group therapy settings. Additionally, in-person therapy sessions may be more effective for individuals with severe mental health issues or those who require more intensive treatment.
Why might some individuals prefer BetterHelp to in-person therapy?
Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may be more convenient and accessible for individuals who cannot attend in-person sessions due to location, mobility issues or time constraints. Online therapy sessions may also offer a sense of anonymity and privacy, which can be appealing for individuals who are hesitant to seek therapy due to stigma or fear of judgment.
What are the common criticisms of online therapy platforms such as BetterHelp?
Some common criticisms of online therapy platforms include concerns about the qualifications and experience of therapists, as well as the potential for miscommunication and misunderstandings in remote sessions. Additionally, some individuals may feel that online therapy sessions lack the personalized experience and connection of in-person sessions.