How Long Are BetterHelp Sessions? A Comprehensive Guide

Each person will experience challenges or difficult periods in their lifetime. For this reason, many people seek the services of a mental health care professional who can help them work through their problems and provide them the support they need. While there has been a negative stigma about therapy only being available for people suffering from a debilitating mental illness, everyone can benefit from some form of counseling. 

So when was the last time you sat down and listened to your needs and desires from life? Have you ever scheduled an appointment with a therapist to share your deepest thoughts, feelings, and concerns? Therapy is a safe place for expressing your feelings and healing from pain, however many people have never experienced going to therapy or find the idea intimidating. 

Fortunately, online counseling platforms such as BetterHelp are bringing attention to the benefits of checking in with our mental health. Therapy and counseling sessions have also become more accessible and affordable. Thus, in this article you will learn more about BetterHelp’s therapy and what you can expect from your first session. Additionally, we will discuss the various types of therapist available in the market today.

Understanding BetterHelp 

If you’re considering using BetterHelp for online therapy, it is important to understand how the platform works. BetterHelp is rated as a top online therapy platform that connects you with licensed mental health professionals for a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, among others. 

The platform offers a range of therapy modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. In order to achieve your therapy goals, your therapist will work with you to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

When using BetterHelp, you will have access to live sessions with your therapist, which can be conducted through video, phone, or live online chat. You will also have access to messaging with your therapist throughout the week.

One of the main benefits of using BetterHelp is that it offers flexibility in scheduling and session length. You can schedule sessions at a time that is convenient for you, and you can choose between 30-minute or 60-minute sessions. However, your therapist may be able to extend the session to 60 minutes depending on their schedule and availability. 

This can be helpful if you have a lot to discuss or if you need more time to fully explore your thoughts and feelings. Keep in mind that the length of your sessions may also depend on your subscription plan and how often you schedule appointments.

Overall, BetterHelp offers a convenient and flexible way to receive therapy from the comfort of your own home. With a variety of therapy modalities and session lengths available, you can surely find a therapist and approach that works best for you. In addition, it’s essential to communicate your needs and preferences with your therapist so they can tailor your sessions to best meet your needs. 

How Long are BetterHelp Sessions?

BetterHelp offers live therapy sessions that last a minimum of 30 minutes. Depending on the availability of the therapist, the session can be extended up to an hour or so.

The messaging format of therapy is unlimited, which means you can message your therapist at any point of the day, and this can go on for the entire length of your subscription. With BetterHelp, you have the flexibility to choose the length and format of your therapy sessions based on your needs.

If you are considering signing up for BetterHelp, we will discuss the types of sessions offered and their time frames. 

Initial Session

The initial session with your therapist is usually longer than regular sessions and can last up to an hour. This session is important as it sets the foundation for your therapy and helps your therapist understand your needs, goals, and concerns. During this session, you will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your mental health history, and what you hope to achieve through therapy.

Regular Sessions

After the initial session, regular sessions with your therapist will typically last between 30 to 45 minutes. However, BetterHelp does not set an absolute limit on session length as the duration of sessions can vary depending on your therapist’s schedule and your preferences.

 Extended Sessions

If you need more time to discuss your concerns with your therapist, you can choose to schedule extended sessions. These sessions can last up to an hour or longer, depending on your therapist’s availability. It is important to discuss with your therapist how long you would like to meet before you schedule the session, as some therapists have different preferences for sessions.

Factors Affecting Session Length

The length of therapy sessions at BetterHelp can vary depending on several factors. While some of these may be at the discretion of your therapist, others can be based on personal preferences. Here are some of the factors that can affect how long a session lasts:

Therapist’s Approach

The therapist’s approach can play a significant role in determining the length of a session. Some therapists prefer to have shorter sessions, while others prefer longer ones. Additionally, therapists may adjust the length of sessions based on the needs of the client. For example, if a client is struggling with a particular issue, the therapist may decide to extend the session to allow for more time to explore the issue.

Client’s Needs

The client’s needs are another important factor that can affect the length of a session. If a client is dealing with a complex issue, the therapist may need to schedule longer sessions to allow for more in-depth exploration. Additionally, if a client is experiencing a crisis, the therapist may need to schedule more frequent sessions to provide support during this difficult time.

Progress in Therapy

The progress that a client is making in therapy can also impact the length of sessions. If a client is making significant progress, the therapist may decide to reduce the length of sessions. On the other hand, if a client is struggling to make progress, the therapist may need to schedule longer sessions to provide additional support and guidance.

In conclusion, several factors can impact the length of therapy sessions at BetterHelp. These factors can include the therapist’s approach, the client’s needs, and the progress that the client is making in therapy. By working closely with your therapist and being open and honest about your needs, you can help ensure that your therapy sessions are tailored to your unique needs and goals.

What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session?

Going to therapy for the first time can be overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help ease your anxiety. Here are a few things you can expect during your first therapy session:

• Arrive at your therapist’s office a little early to complete any necessary paperwork, such as insurance information, medical history, or HIPAA forms. If you are using an online therapy platform like BetterHelp or Talkspace, this step may not be necessary since the platform takes care of all of this for you and your therapist.
• Your first session resembles an interview.. Your therapist will ask you about your symptoms and the main reason why you decided to seek therapy. It is important that you be as open and honest as possible with your therapist so that they can help you.
• Your therapist will ask you certain details about your childhood, family, relationships, work, and other areas of your life. This allows the therapist to get to know you while establishing good rapport. Ultimately, the relationship you have with your therapist is critical to the therapeutic process.  
• Once the session is complete, your therapist will discuss the various modes of treatment and what they think is best for you. They will also explain the process and let you know the time frame for your intervention.
• Most importantly, they will explain the different factors of confidentiality and privacy about your sessions. When in doubt, be sure to ask questions right away so that you and your therapist are on the same page.  
• Some individuals stick with the same therapist for some time, while others consider changing therapists. There are a few concerns that make it reasonable to change therapists such as poorly matched communication styles, goals may not align, a lack of skill or professionalism, or no progression.

Whatever the case is, there is nothing wrong with finding the right mental health professional that will suit your needs and preferences.

Types of Therapies

Mental health is an essential part of life that impacts one’s thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. It contributes to making decisions, coping with stress, and relating with others. According to the World Health Organization, 450 million people currently suffer from a mental illness. In other words, 1 in 4 people will deal with a mental health issue or neurological disorder during their lifespan. 

Many people with mental health disorders do not have access to effective care. Others experience stigma, discrimination and violations of human rights. However, there are effective prevention and treatment options available to cater to different mental health needs. Here are some of the most common types of therapies: 

• Psychodynamic Therapy: This type of therapy is based on the psychoanalytic school of thought and aims to help clients become aware of their unconscious thoughts and emotions.
  
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps clients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with constructive and rational ones.
  
• Behavioral Therapy: The focus of this therapy is to change maladaptive thought processes by bringing about new behaviors or actions in the client.
  
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is effective for high-risk clients and uses coping behaviors and strategies to help clients deal with their trauma.
  
• Person-Centered Therapy: This therapy focuses on using the client’s own personality and understanding to promote self-acceptance and self-growth.
  
• Group Therapy: Group therapy can be either support groups or interventional groups where the social component plays an important role in the therapy.
  

Each type of therapy has its own unique approach and is tailored to meet specific mental health needs. It is important to consult with a mental health professional to determine which type of therapy is best suited for you.

Does BetterHelp Take Insurance?

Comparing BetterHelp with Traditional Therapy

When it comes to mental health treatment, traditional therapy has been the norm for decades. However, with advancements in technology, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp have become increasingly popular. Here are some key differences between the two:

Accessibility

One of the main advantages of BetterHelp is its accessibility. With traditional therapy, you typically have to schedule appointments in advance and physically go to a therapist’s office. This can be difficult for those with busy schedules, transportation issues, or physical disabilities. BetterHelp, on the other hand, allows you to have therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home, office, or wherever you have an internet connection.

Cost

Traditional therapy can be expensive, with some therapists charging over $200 per session. This can be a financial burden for many people, especially if they need therapy on a regular basis. BetterHelp, however, offers more affordable options. The weekly sessions at BetterHelp may cost around $60-$90 a session, billed every four weeks to your credit card or PayPal account.

Session Length

In traditional therapy, sessions typically last around 50 minutes. With BetterHelp, you can book a 30-minute session with your therapist, whether in video or phone format. However, depending on your therapist’s schedule, you might be able to go over this allotted time and talk for up to an hour.

Therapist Qualifications

Both traditional therapy and BetterHelp require therapists to be licensed and certified. However, some people may prefer traditional therapy because they can meet their therapist in person and get a better sense of their qualifications and personality. With BetterHelp, you communicate with your therapist through text, phone, or video chat, which may not be as personal for some people. However, all BetterHelp therapists have at least three years and 1,000 hours of direct experience and have been certified by their state professional board.

Overall, both traditional therapy and online therapy platforms like BetterHelp have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences when choosing a therapy option.

Maximizing the Benefit of BetterHelp Sessions

When you sign up for BetterHelp, you are taking an important step towards improving your mental health. To make the most of your therapy sessions, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Be Honest and Open

It’s important to be honest and open with your therapist about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This can be difficult at times, but it’s essential for your therapist to understand your perspective in order to provide effective treatment. Remember that your therapist is there to help you and won’t judge you for what you share.

Set Realistic Goals

It’s important to set realistic goals for your therapy sessions. While therapy can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not a magic solution that will solve all of your problems overnight. Work with your therapist to identify specific goals that are achievable and measurable. This will help you track your progress and stay motivated.

Attend Regularly

Consistency is key when it comes to therapy. Attending regular sessions will help you build a strong relationship with your therapist and make progress towards your goals. Try to attend sessions at the same time each week to establish a routine.

Use Additional Resources

In addition to attending therapy sessions, there are a variety of resources available through BetterHelp that can help you make progress towards your goals. These include worksheets, articles, and other resources that can help you learn new skills and strategies for managing your mental health.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, it’s important to take care of yourself outside of therapy sessions. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise. These habits can help improve your mental health and make it easier to manage stress and anxiety.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your BetterHelp therapy sessions and take an important step towards improving your mental health.

Your Guide to Switching Your Therapist on BetterHelp

Best Features of BetterHelp

If you are looking for an online therapy platform, BetterHelp offers several advantages that make it highly appealing and beneficial. Here are some of the best features that BetterHelp offers:

• Offers cost-effective and affordable online therapy sessions.
• Maintains an extensive network of therapists who bring about a better client-therapist fit.
• Offers several forms of therapy, such as messaging therapy, audio sessions, and video sessions.
• Their full compliance with HIPAA regulations ensures high levels of security and privacy to users.
• Maintains and updates digital worksheets and journals that can be beneficial to both the therapist and the client.
• Offers complete accessibility through any web browser or even through the BetterHelp app, which can be installed on any smart device.
• When seeking counseling services, privacy and confidentiality are important factors to consider. BetterHelp takes your privacy seriously and has a comprehensive privacy policy in place to ensure that your personal information is protected.

Overall, BetterHelp offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for those seeking online therapy.

Conclusion

With the information provided in this article, you may now decide whether online therapy is right for you. In recent years, people have recognized the vital role mental health plays in a person’s daily life. Taking care of one’s mental health is just as important as providing care for one’s physical health. Thus, therapy can be a valuable tool for improving your mental health and well-being, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

If you are ready to take the next step and try online counseling, BetterHelp is a convenient and affordable way to access mental health care. With licensed and experienced therapists, flexible session lengths, and a range of therapeutic approaches, BetterHelp can help you find the support and healing you need from the comfort of your own home .

Don’t let mental health challenges hold you back. Sign up for BetterHelp today and take the first step toward healing and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions