Does BetterHelp Take Insurance? Talkspace vs BetterHelp Costs

Does BetterHelp Accept Insurance?

As online therapy platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace continue growing in popularity, many are wondering does BetterHelp accept insurance? With therapy costs quickly adding up, using insurance to offset expenses can make a big difference in affordability and accessibility of mental health services.

The Answer: No, BetterHelp Does Not Accept Insurance

Currently, BetterHelp does not accept any type of insurance, whether its private, employer-provided, Medicaid, or Medicare. All payments must be made upfront by the client through self-pay. However, Talkspace does work with some insurance providers. Keep reading for a breakdown of each platform's insurance policies and out-of-pocket costs.

How Much Does BetterHelp Cost?

Without insurance coverage, how much youll pay for BetterHelp varies based on the plan you choose. Their most affordable package starts at $60-$90 per week. This includes unlimited text, voice, and video messaging with your therapist. More comprehensive plans that add in live video sessions cost upward of $240-$276 per month. Currently, BetterHelp does not offer financial assistance programs for low-income clients either.

BetterHelp Packages & Pricing

• Basic Package - $60-$90 per week
• Standard Package - $160-$196 per month
• Premium Package - $240-$276 per month

Does Talkspace Take Insurance?

Unlike BetterHelp, Talkspace does accept insurance including private plans, EAPs, Medicaid, Medicare, and Tricare in select states. This makes online counseling far more affordable through reimbursed video sessions. Copays are as low as $49 per week depending on your specific insurance coverage.

Talkspace Insurance Acceptance

• Aetna
• Cigna
• Humana
• Magellan
• Medicare
• New Directions

Check Talkspaces website for the most updated list of participating insurance providers in your state. Eligibility and coverage details can vary between different plans under the same insurance company.

Other Ways to Reduce Therapy Costs

BetterHelp Financial Aid

For financially struggling clients, BetterHelp recently rolled out a new financial aid program. Clients making under $36,000 annually may qualify for 25%, 50%, or 75% off monthly plans after submitting income verification.

BetterHelp Group Discount

Joining BetterHelp with a friend allows you both to save 25% off all individual plans and packages for the duration of your memberships.

Student Discount

Enrolled college students get 10% off all BetterHelp counseling subscriptions when they sign up using their university email address.

Pros & Cons of Insurance Acceptance

Advantages of Using Insurance for Therapy

• Saves clients substantial money on copays
• Increases accessibility for lower-income demographics
• Provides verification of a therapist's credentials

Disadvantages of Using Insurance for Therapy

• Restricts choice of therapist
• Requires diagnosis coding for reimbursement
• Involves extensive delays in appointment scheduling

At the end of the day, the right choice comes down to your personal needs. While BetterHelp lacks insurance acceptance, their self-pay model also frees clients from many headaches insurance introduces. Consider convenience, affordability, privacy, and customizability when weighing online therapy platforms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.