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Best Online Therapy Platforms of 2026: Tested & Reviewed

Last updated on February 13, 2026

Looking for the best online therapy services? HelpGuide’s staff surveyed real users and personally tested and reviewed the top platforms to rate them on therapist quality, affordability, privacy and security, user experience, and effectiveness.

Abstract illustration of a woman sitting on the floor, a hand reaching out to her from a computer screen, symbolizing the best online therapy services.

We independently test and review all of the services we recommend. When you sign up through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our nonprofit mission.

Best online therapy platforms according to our testing results

Why Trust HelpGuide’s selections of the best online therapy platforms


BetterHelp intake questionnaire results (PHQ-9 and anxiety scores) showing steps to start online therapy.
BetterHelp is most suitable for:People looking for a broad selection of therapists
Starting price:$65-$100 per week (billed monthly)
Insurance accepted?Yes
Financial aid:Available (25% of users)
Therapy types:Individual, couples, teens
Session formats:Video, audio, text messaging
Time to first session with therapist:1-2 days
Psychiatry services:No

Tested by: Sheldon Reid, Staff Writer

Tested by: Chris Saranchock, Director of Operations & Multimedia

  • Large network of therapists to select from
  • Extra features, such as group therapy and classes, are included in the subscription
  • Intuitive user interface with minimal technical issues
User experience: What real users and testers found

Survey and tester insights

We surveyed 100 BetterHelp users across the United States and had two of our in-house staff test BetterHelp. In our survey results we found that the biggest strength was accessibility. Regardless of location, users were able to schedule timely sessions, including during evenings and weekends.

  • Overall satisfaction: 88/100
  • Value for cost: 74/100
  • Empathy rating: 80/100
  • Privacy and security rating: 84/100
  • Platform navigation rating: 88/100

“I was more aware of my emotions, could cope better with things that were stressing me, and I became more confident.”

Survey respondent

“My therapist helped me get through serious anxiety. I wish I could’ve continued, but it became too expensive.”

Survey respondent
  • Fast sign-up:
    77 percent of survey users completed sign-up in under 20 minutes, and 64 percent had their first session within 3 days.
  • Flexible matching:
    78 percent stuck with their first therapist, but switching therapists was rated easy or very easy according to 77 percent of respondents.
  • Varied approaches to therapy:
    64 percent of survey users received a blended approach, structured + casual, and 69 percent valued active listening the most.
  • Technical glitches:
    32 percent experienced technical issues, mostly around video quality or session connection.  
  • Slow customer support:
    While only 16 percent of users had to contact customer support, 43 percent of them had to wait 2-3 days or more for a response. 
  • Active Listening: 69%
  • Empathy and compassion: 58%
  • Nonjudgmental attitude: 53%
  • Consistency and reliability: 47%

Overall satisfaction:

Value for cost:

Empathy rating:

Privacy and security rating:

Platform navigation rating:

“Prior to this, I was skeptical that I’d be a good fit for telehealth therapy. Now I feel much more comfortable with it.”

Sheldon Reid, Staff Writer

“I wish I wasn’t auto-matched with a therapist at the start. I would’ve preferred and expected at least two options. More options appeared when I decided to switch therapists.”

Sheldon Reid, Staff Writer
Online-Therapy.com therapy toolbox dashboard with CBT sections, worksheets, live sessions, and therapist messaging.
Online-Therapy.com is most suitable for:People looking for cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) without using insurance
Starting price:$60-$120 per week (billed monthly)
Insurance accepted?No
Financial aid:Available (19% of users)
Therapy types:Individual, couples
Session formats:Video, audio, and text messaging
Time to first session with therapist:1-3 days
Psychiatry services:No

Tested by: Chris Saranchock, Director of Operations & Multimedia

  • Specializes in CBT, the most widely studied form of therapy
  • Streamlined sign-up process
  • Useful resources and tools included in all plans
User experience: What real users and testers found

Survey and tester insights

We surveyed 100 Online-Therapy.com users across the United States and had one of our in-house staff test Online-Therapy.com. In our survey, users described the platform as reliable, private, effective, flexible, and user-friendly. Both the users and our tester appreciated the quality of therapy and the tools included on the platform, such as worksheets.

  • Overall satisfaction: 87/100
  • Value for cost: 78/100
  • Empathy rating: 80/100
  • Privacy and security rating: 90/100
  • Platform navigation rating: 88/100

“Online-Therapy.com helped me go from stuck to thriving.”

Survey respondent

“My confidence skyrocketed—I felt more in control of my emotions.”

Survey respondent
  • Fast sign-up:
    78 percent of survey users completed sign-up in under 20 minutes, and 65 percent had their first session within 3 days.
  • Flexible matching:
    80 percent stuck with their first therapist, but switching therapists was rated easy. 
  • Varied approaches to therapy:
    The most commonly used techniques reported were mindfulness and meditation (37 percent), CBT (33 percent), and trauma-informed care (22 percent). 
  • Technical glitches:
    73 percent reported no technical issues.
  • Lack of price transparency:
    26 percent of users reported surprise charges.
  • Active Listening: 71%
  • Empathy and compassion: 57%
  • Nonjudgmental attitude: 46%
  • Clear communication: 39%

Overall satisfaction:

Value for cost:

Empathy rating:

Privacy and security rating:

Platform navigation rating:

“I enjoyed my experience with Online-Therapy.com. Worksheets, tools, and yoga were helpful.”

Chris Saranchock, Director of Operations & Multimedia

“I may go back to her as my therapist, and I would have gone back to my BetterHelp therapist at the time as well, so the quality of the therapy was excellent on both platforms.”

Chris Saranchock, Director of Operations & Multimedia
Talkspace onboarding flow showing plan selection, intake questions, and options for video, audio, chat, or messaging therapy.
Talkspace is most suitable for:People looking for fast insurance approval and therapist matching
Starting price:$69 – $109 per week (billed monthly) without insurance; average copay with insurance $15-30
Insurance accepted?Yes
Financial aid:No
Therapy types:Individual, teen, couples
Session formats:Video, audio, and text messaging
Time to first session with therapist:1-3 days
Psychiatry services:Yes

Tested by: Lawrence Robinson, Managing Editor

  • Sessions can range from 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Large network of therapists and psychiatrists
  • Allows you to check your insurance coverage
User experience: What real users and testers found

Survey and tester insights

We surveyed 100 Talkspace users across the United States and had one of our in-house staff test Talkspace. In our survey results we found that the biggest strengths were insurance coverage and satisfaction with the quality of therapy. Users described the platform as professional, convenient, effective, and life-improving.

  • Overall satisfaction: 88/100
  • Value for cost: 75/100
  • Empathy rating: 82/100
  • Privacy and security rating: 87/100
  • Platform navigation rating: 90/100

“Talkspace made me a better person. I applied what I learned and saw real improvement.”

Survey respondent

“I loved it, but I stopped when I couldn’t afford it anymore.”

Survey respondent
  • Fast sign-up:
    77 percent of survey users completed sign-up in under 20 minutes, and 65 percent had their first session within three days. 
  • Good insurance coverage:
    47 percent used insurance with a copay, 25 percent used insurance with no copay.
  • Noticeable results:
    Recorded a 77/100 goal progress rating, with users reporting benefits such as better coping skills, reduced anxiety, and stronger emotional awareness and confidence.
  • High satisfaction rating:
    86 percent of users would use Talkspace again.
  • Can get expensive without insurance:
    23 percent received discounted pricing, while many others cited pricing as a major drawback, cost or financial issues being the most common reason for stopping therapy.
  • Active Listening: 68%
  • Empathy and compassion: 51%
  • Nonjudgmental attitude: 44%
  • Consistency and reliability: 41%

Overall satisfaction:

Value for cost:

Empathy rating:

Privacy and security rating:

Platform navigation rating:

“I could verify if therapy would be covered by insurance before having to create an account, which I really appreciated. And instantly told me what my copay would be ($15).”

Lawrence Robinson, Managing Editor

“Therapist seemed very understanding and empathetic, with a good sense of humor. Provided some interesting insights I hadn’t considered before.”

Lawrence Robinson, Managing Editor
Brightside Health app lessons and self-care module showing guided therapy content and progress over time.
Brightside Health is most suitable for:People wanting to use insurance for depression or anxiety treatment
Starting price:$75 per week (billed monthly at $299)
Insurance accepted?Yes
Financial aid:Available (24 percent received)
Therapy types:Individual, teen
Session formats:Video with unlimited messaging between sessions
Time to first session with therapist:1-2 days
Psychiatry services:Yes

Tested by: Joseph Collerain, Production Coordinator

  • Specializes in depression and anxiety
  • Accepts major insurance plans. 
  • Same- and next-day appointments.
User experience: What real users and testers found

Survey and tester insights

We surveyed 100 Brightside users across the United States and had one of our in-house staff test the platform. In our survey results we found that the biggest strength was value for money, therapy experience, and security ratings. The length of the questionnaire was the primary source of frustration for both our tester and surveyed users, but 81 percent still completed the sign-up in under 20 minutes.

  • Overall satisfaction: 85/100
  • Value for cost: 80/100
  • Empathy rating: 79/100
  • Privacy and security rating: 90/100
  • Platform navigation rating: 79/100

“Brightside helped me reframe my thoughts and take better care of myself.”

Survey respondent

“Brightside changed my perspective on therapy. I felt heard.”

Survey respondent
  • Good value for the money:
    34 percent used insurance with no copay and 40 percent used insurance with a copay.
  • Facilitated progress towards goals:
    Scored 80/100 for results and progress, with benefits such as reduced anxiety and stress, better emotional regulation, and improved sleep and communication. 
  • Varied approaches to therapy:
    64 percent of survey users received a mix of a structured and conversational approach to therapy, with CBT the most commonly used technique (41 percent). 
  • Technical glitches:
    45 percent of users experienced technical issues, mostly around video and sound quality or the trouble connecting.
  • A frustrating questionnaire:
    43 percent of users complained about the length of the questionnaire and the lack of clarity in the questions.
  • Empathy and compassion: 70%
  • Active listening: 68%
  • Nonjudgmental attitude: 49%
  • Experience with my specific issue: 43%

Overall satisfaction:

Value for cost:

Empathy rating:

Privacy and security rating:

Platform navigation rating:

“Very good experience, the platform was easy to navigate and the therapists were knowledgeable and goal driven.”

Joseph Collerain, Production Coordinator

“Besides some camera glitches with my second therapist, I noticed no problems with the site.”

Joseph Collerain, Production Coordinator


Amwell telehealth app showing psychiatry and therapy services with provider list and appointment time selection.
Sesame telehealth marketplace screen showing therapy provider, price, availability, and appointment booking button.

In the end, all our research, user surveys, and hands-on testing led us to conclude that BetterHelp was the best online therapy platform. Its large network of providers increases your chances of finding the right therapist. In addition, its intuitive interface and extra features make it an excellent option whether you’re new to online therapy or are already familiar with telehealth services. Finally, it’s an affordable option, especially when you weigh in all the extra features. 

Still, you might find that other platforms better meet your specific needs. So, don’t hesitate to explore the other options we’ve covered here if you think there’s a better fit for you.


Therapist selection. Ultimately, finding the right therapist for you is the most important consideration. Without the right connection between you, therapy is unlikely to be very successful. Do you want a therapist who shares your cultural background or sexual orientation, for example, or one who speaks a language other than English? Some platforms match you with a therapist based on your selection criteria, while others let you choose from a filterable list. Since it often takes some trial and error to find a good fit, it’s important that a service allows you to easily switch therapists until you find the one that’s right for you.

Affordability. Trying to find an online therapy service that fits your budget can be tough. Using a therapy service that takes your insurance often means you’re only charged for a copay, depending on your plan. If you choose a platform with a subscription, paying up-front for longer can often bring the total cost down. Some platforms offer financial assistance, while private therapists sometimes charge for their services on a sliding scale, so you pay based on your income. You can also take advantage of any coupon codes or introductory offers to help lower costs.

Privacy. In the United States, the Health Information and Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) means that legally what you tell your therapist is private and confidential—unless you’re deemed a danger to yourself or others. However, you also want to make sure that connecting with a therapist is also done on a secure platform. Checking a service’s privacy policy will let you know the level of privacy measures and data protection they offer.

How quickly you can get started. When you’re struggling with a mental health issue, you likely want to start therapy as soon as possible. Many popular online therapy services promise to match you with a therapist within a few days and schedule your first appointment within a week or so. Of course, where you’re located, the availability of suitable therapists, and your stated preferences mean matching could be much faster—or slower.

Extra features. Some online therapy platforms offer extra features in addition to therapy sessions. These may include group therapy sessions, webinars, video tutorials, relaxation exercises, and tools to track your progress or mood. Others enable you to message with your therapist between sessions with any questions or concerns, or offer check-ins to monitor your well-being. Consider which functions are likely to be most useful for you.

Ease of use. One drawback to online therapy can be technical issues that sometimes arise, interrupting the therapy experience. Take a moment to browse an online therapy platform or app to test its functionality and make sure it’s easy for you to use.

Crisis response. Some platforms ensure that your therapist knows the exact address where you’re having your online therapy session, so they can summon help if you’re in crisis and the connection’s lost. Others simply include a link on the platform that connects you to a crisis helpline. When relaying crisis protocols, there can often be inconsistencies from therapist to therapist on the same platform. When considering an online therapy platform, it can be reassuring to check how they handle crisis situations.


64%

of respondents said online therapy was equally effective as in-person therapy.

21%

said online therapy was more effective than their previous in-person experiences.

15%

reported that in-person therapy was more effective for them.

“My therapist online was more consistent and engaged than the one I saw in person for two years. I felt more comfortable opening up from home.”

Survey respondent
  • Convenience and flexibility in scheduling.
  • Increased comfort due to being in a familiar environment.
  • Easier access to specialized providers, especially in rural areas.
  • Lower cost and time savings from not having to commute.
  • Greater sense of personal connection in a physical space.
  • Access to body language and non-verbal cues.
  • Fewer tech interruptions.

  • Depending on your income, you may be able to obtain low-cost therapy via a community clinic or Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
  • Colleges and universities often offer counseling services—online or in-person—via the psychology department.
  • Some larger companies provide an employee assistance program (EAP) that can include free online or in-person therapy trials or other types of support.
  • Some private practice therapists, online or in-person, may offer sliding scale payments that vary according to your income, while some online therapy platforms offer discounts for low income users.
  • Other online therapy services offer reduced rates by connecting you with trained volunteers rather than professional therapists.
  • You can call, text, or email the NAMI HelpLine for free emotional support from trained volunteers.