BetterHelp
BetterHelp (Teladoc Health subsidiary)
World's largest online therapy platform (30,000+ therapists). Self-pay only. 17% pay fairness rating—tiered engagement-based compensation.
About BetterHelp
BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, founded in 2013 and acquired by Teladoc Health in 2015 for approximately $4.5 million. The platform has grown exponentially and now serves over 2 million clients with a network of 30,000+ licensed therapists across all 50 states and internationally. BetterHelp operates on a self-pay subscription model (no insurance accepted), with clients paying weekly or monthly fees for unlimited messaging plus weekly live sessions. The platform offers therapy via text messaging, live chat, phone calls, and video sessions. Unlike platforms that accept insurance, BetterHelp's self-pay model means no credentialing delays or insurance billing complexity for therapists. Providers work as independent contractors with flexible schedules, setting their own hours and client load. BetterHelp's proprietary matching algorithm connects clients with therapists based on preferences, specialties, and availability. The platform handles all client acquisition, billing, and technical infrastructure. BetterHelp also operates specialized platforms including ReGain (couples therapy), Teen Counseling (teen therapy), Pride Counseling (LGBTQ+ focused), and Faithful Counseling (faith-based).
Best For
- • Therapists seeking high client volume without marketing or billing hassles
- • Licensed counselors wanting flexible part-time or full-time telehealth work
- • Providers comfortable with daily text-based therapeutic communication
- • Clinicians who prefer self-pay clients over insurance billing complexity
- • Therapists wanting immediate client assignments after onboarding
Not Ideal For
- • Therapists seeking competitive per-session compensation (17% pay fairness rating)
- • Clinicians concerned about 2023 FTC data-sharing settlement ($7.8M fine)
- • Providers wanting to build their own independent brand
- • Psychiatrists or prescribers (no medication management offered)
- • Therapists wanting long-term client relationships (high client churn)
Pricing
No upfront cost
Free tier available
Compliance & Security
Always verify compliance directly with the vendor.
Target Audience
Roles
Settings
Related Tools
Talkspace
Text, video, and audio therapy platform with psychiatry services. 11% pay fairness rating—major April 2025 bonus cuts reported.
Cerebral
Online therapy and psychiatry platform with medication management, but no longer prescribes controlled substances.
Teladoc BetterHelp Business
Enterprise virtual mental health services from Teladoc for health plans and employers.
Alma Provider Platform
$125/mo platform with AI notes, EHR, and weekly pay. Hit by 2024 Optum cuts (up to 30%) and 2026 Aetna cuts. Acquired by Spring Health.