Apps and online care
SparkRx vs BetterHelp
They differ on 8 of 10 things we check. No winner here: the better one is the one that fits what you need and how you'd pay.
SparkRx
SparkRx is a phone program for teens and young adults with depression that teaches CBT skills over five weeks, on top of seeing a clinician.
BetterHelp
You fill in a questionnaire, get matched with a licensed therapist, and meet by video, phone or live chat, with messaging in between.
Where they differ
- Kind of help
- SparkRx: An app I use on my own
- BetterHelp: A therapist
- Good for
- SparkRx: Teens and young adults (about 13-22) with depression symptoms who are already seeing a clinician; Families whose health plan, employer or clinician offers SparkRx
- BetterHelp: Adults with mild to moderate depression, anxiety or stress who want weekly talk therapy from home; People who want to message a therapist between live sessions
- Cost
- SparkRx: Through a clinician, employer or health plan; contact Big Health
- BetterHelp: $70–$100/week, billed weekly or every 4 weeks
- How you pay
- SparkRx: Through work or school
- BetterHelp: I'll pay myself
- Where
- SparkRx: iPhone, Android
- BetterHelp: iPhone, Android, Web
- Research
- SparkRx: Some research support
- BetterHelp: Limited research
- Privacy
- SparkRx: Grade C
- BetterHelp: Grade D
- HIPAA
- SparkRx: Not stated
- BetterHelp: Yes
The same for both: probably not for (anyone in crisis: call or text 988), sells your data (yes).
In crisis or thinking about suicide? In the US, call or text 988. This page is information from our reviews, not medical advice.