Best Online Therapy — every ranking, by use case and budget
We paid for every platform here and used it as a client would, then verified licences and read the privacy policies and FTC records. Scores are locked before any affiliate link is added.
Talkiatry
Good
8.0
Brightside Health
Good
8.0
By use case indexed
In-depth online therapy reviews
Talkspace
In-network with most major insurers, psychiatry on the same platform, and messaging between sessions — the most complete service we tested
Read Talkspace ReviewTalkiatry
Psychiatrists employed by the practice, 60-minute first appointments, and in-network with most major insurers — no cash option at all
Read Talkiatry ReviewBrightside Health
Evidence-based care for anxiety and depression with measurement-based tracking and psychiatry — in-network with many insurers
Read Brightside Health ReviewOpen Path Collective
A nonprofit directory of licensed therapists who agree to $40–$80 a session for people without adequate insurance — the cheapest real therapy here
Read Open Path Collective ReviewAmwell
Pay-per-visit telehealth with therapy and psychiatry, no subscription, and insurance accepted — see a therapist once without signing up for a month
Read Amwell ReviewBetterHelp
The largest network and the fastest first match, with unlimited messaging and one live session a week — no insurance, and a 2023 FTC privacy order on the record
Read BetterHelp Review7 Cups
Free 24/7 chat with trained volunteer listeners and peer forums, plus a $150-a-month messaging-therapy tier — support, not treatment
Read 7 Cups ReviewGuides that send readers to these rankings
How to Choose an Online Therapy Service (Insurance First, Then Format)
Four questions that narrow seven platforms to one, and the crisis line to use instead if you need help now.
How Private Is Online Therapy? What the FTC Cases Changed
HIPAA, the BetterHelp and Cerebral enforcement actions, and the settings to change on any platform.