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Made with for better mental health
v2.2.0

Talkspace

Talkspace is a large online therapy platform that connects adults with licensed therapists through secure messaging and live video sessions. Users choose a subscription plan with weekly messaging and optional live sessions. Talkspace provides psychotherapy only (no primary prescribing) and is appropriate for mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and stress. It is not a crisis service, is not recommended for severe psychiatric conditions, and should not replace higher-level care when safety is a concern.
digital tools
Reviewed by the HeyPsych Medical Review Board
Board-certified psychiatrists and mental health professionals
Medical Review Board
Published: December 25, 2025
Last Updated: November 28, 2025
Last Reviewed: January 9, 2026

In Plain Terms

Talkspace offers online therapy with licensed therapists using secure messages and optional weekly live video. It’s convenient if you have mild to moderate depression or anxiety and want therapy from home. It does not prescribe medication (except through separate psychiatry services in some states), and it is not appropriate if you’re in crisis, have severe symptoms, or need emergency care.

Talkspace

Online Therapy Platform

Available On

iOS
Android
Web
HIPAA Compliant
Last updated: 11/28/2025

How Well Does It Work?

Effectiveness of online psychotherapy
vs. Internet-based CBT vs in-person CBT (not Talkspace-specific)

In Plain Terms

Online therapy can help many people with depression or anxiety, but Talkspace itself does not yet have large independent randomized trials.

Meta-analyses show online and video-based psychotherapy can produce symptom reduction similar to in-person CBT for depression and anxiety in many adults.
Source:
Andersson G; Backhaus A (2012). . .

Who Should Use This?

Best For:

Talkspace is best for adults who:

  • Have mild to moderate depression or anxiety
  • Prefer remote therapy
  • Want messaging plus occasional live sessions
  • Can maintain privacy at home

Not Recommended For:

  • People in crisis
  • Severe depression with suicidal thoughts
  • Psychosis or mania
  • Need for urgent or intensive care

Key Features Explained

Licensed Therapists

Therapists are licensed professionals who can provide psychotherapy within their scope of practice.

Evidence: Psychotherapy evidence applies broadly, not platform-specific.

Messaging Therapy

Users send messages during the week, with therapist responses within set timeframes.

Evidence: Asynchronous support may improve engagement but is not crisis care.

Live Sessions

Video sessions available depending on subscription level.

Evidence: Videoconference psychotherapy has supporting evidence in multiple small studies.

Cost & Subscription

Pricing varies by plan and promotions. Typical plans include messaging-only or messaging plus live video.

Monthly Subscription

~$69–$129/week (varies)

Most users with weekly messaging and occasional live sessions

Discounts Available

  • • Occasional promotional discounts
Insurance

Some insurance plans cover Talkspace; availability varies by insurer and state

Platform Availability

Web Browser

Messaging, live video

iOS

Android

Privacy & Data Security

C

Talkspace uses encryption and access controls, but has faced public scrutiny over data-sharing practices in past reporting. Grade: C

Data Collected

  • Account information
  • Intake questionnaire responses
  • Messaging content
  • Technical/device data
  • Billing information

Data Shared

  • Payment processors
  • Service providers and analytics
  • Past reports and criticism regarding data sharing for marketing have been documented publicly
No Data Sales
Encrypted
GDPR Compliant
CCPA Compliant
Subject to heightened scrutiny and public discussion regarding mental health data privacy
  • Encrypted messaging
  • Licensed clinicians
  • Historically subject to privacy controversies
  • Not designed for crisis communication

Privacy Considerations

  • Past reports of marketing-related data use
  • Users should review current privacy policy carefully

How to Start Using Talkspace

How to Get Started

  1. 1Download the app or visit talkspace.com
  2. 2Complete an intake questionnaire
  3. 3Select a plan
  4. 4Get matched with a therapist
  5. 5Begin messaging and schedule live sessions

Pro Tips

  • • Find a private place for sessions
  • • Discuss goals early
  • • Switch therapists if needed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Using during crisis
  • • Expecting immediate results
  • • Not understanding messaging response times

Similar Services

Betterhelp

View

Similar subscription teletherapy model; differences in pricing, interface, and provider network.

In Person Therapy

View

Better for severe, complex, or crisis situations.

Related Mental Health Conditions

Major Depressive Disorder
supportive
moderate

Psychotherapy (including CBT) is first-line for mild to moderate depression; Talkspace connects users to licensed therapists via telehealth.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder
supportive
moderate

CBT delivered online can reduce anxiety symptoms in many adults who are not in crisis.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
complementary
low

Some therapists offer trauma-informed treatment, but severe or unstable PTSD may need specialized or in-person care.

Frequently Asked Questions