We spent hundreds of hours personally using 53 online therapy platforms that accept insurance. All of our top ten picks accept a wide number of insurance plans, and some even accept Medicare/Medicaid, offer medication management, or include therapy for kids and teens.
Our Favorites
- Best Overall - Brightside Health | Read review
- Best For Therapy & Medication - Talkiatry | Read review
- Best to Choose Your Own Provider - Grow Therapy | Read review
- Best With Medicare - Talkspace | Read review
- Best For Physical & Mental Health - MDLive | Read review
- Most Flexible Scheduling - Thriveworks | Read review
- Best For Women's Health - Amwell | Read review
- Best For Kids & Teens - Bend Health | Read review
- Best For Substance Use Disorders - Workit Health | Read review
- Most Inclusive Online Therapy - Inclusive Therapists | Read review
A Closer Look
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Accepts some Medicare/Medicaid -
Prescribes non-controlled meds
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Can't choose your provider -
Won't prescribe Adderall/Ritalin
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Treats kids, teens, & adults -
Prescribes medication
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Limited therapy services -
Doesn't accept Medicaid
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Treats kids, teens, adults, & couples -
Prescribes non-controlled meds
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No mobile app -
Provider availability varies
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Accepts Medicare -
Prescribes non-controlled meds
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Can't choose initial provider -
Psychiatry only for 18+
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Prescribes non-controlled meds -
Choose your own provider
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No discounts or bundles -
No text therapy
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Kids, teens, couples, & families -
Accepts Medicare
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Does not accept Medicaid -
Doesn't prescribe controlled meds
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Therapy for kids (10+) -
Pay per appointment
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Psychiatry only for adults -
No text therapy
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Prescribes controlled meds -
Collaborates with pediatrician/school
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No same-day appointments -
Parenting coaching not covered
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Prescribes Suboxone/Naltrexone -
Treats coexisting issues
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Only available in 5 states -
Only for adults
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Treats intersectional identities -
Doesn't treat kids
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Availability varies -
Costs depends on provider
Talkspace - Online Therapy With or Without Insurance
Your therapist can help you process thoughts and feelings, understand motivations, and develop coping skills. Covered by most major insurance plans. Talkspace also accepts Medicare in some states. The average copay is $15, but many people pay $0. Try Talkspace
Best Online Therapy Options Covered by Insurance
- Insurance: Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Ambetter, Anthem, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy (13+), Psychiatry (18+), & Crisis Care
- Service Location: US
Brightside Health is an accessible platform for therapy, psychiatry, and crisis support for ages 13+ across the U.S., featuring low-cost options and insurance coverage.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts some Medicare/Medicaid
- Medication can be shipped directly
Cons - Cannot choose your provider
- Doesn’t guarantee ability to switch therapists
Cost
Brightside accepts most major insurance providers, including Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Ambetter, Anthem, and some Medicare/Medicaid. You are responsible for the copays, coinsurance, or deductibles associated with your plan. You can pay for prescriptions, copays, and bills with HSA/FSA cards. If your insurance doesn’t cover Brightside, you can request a superbill for possible reimbursement.
Brightside’s self-pay subscription plans cost:
- Medication: $95 monthly, includes a virtual evaluation with a psychiatric provider and ongoing support and monitoring. There is also unlimited messaging with your provider and self-care tools online or in the app.
- Therapy: $299 monthly, includes four weekly video therapy sessions, unlimited messaging with your therapist, and self-care tools.
- Medication + Therapy: $349 monthly, includes everything from the medication plan and the therapy plan as one bundle.
You can schedule extra video appointments with your therapist for $59 per 30-minute session. All medications are a $15 copay with insurance; out-of-pocket costs vary per medication.
Overview
Brightside Health is a leading online mental health platform that offers specialized care for a broad spectrum of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, phobias, and more. Uniquely, Brightside also addresses elevated suicidal risk through its Crisis Care program, available in select states.
With their PrecisionRx tool, Brightside providers can analyze over 1,000 personal data points and evaluate more than 1,000 potential medication and dosage combinations to predict the most effective and tolerable prescription for each individual.
For an in-depth look, read our comprehensive Brightside Health review.
- Insurance accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Optum, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, & more.
- Services Offered: Psychiatry (6+)
- Service Location: 50 US states
Talkiatry excels in psychiatric care and medication management, including the ability to treat and prescribe medication for ADHD, depending on state regulations. They offer therapy services only to existing psychiatry clients, providing a comprehensive, coordinated approach with licensed providers for both therapy and prescriptions.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Treats children, teens, & adults
- Accept Medicare
- Medication sent to local pharmacy
Cons - Doesn’t accept Medicaid
- Cost depends on location & coverage
- Only psychiatric patients can receive therapy
Cost
The cost of Talkiatry depends on your plan and coverage. They only take patients with in-network plans, accepting insurance from over 60 major providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Optum, United Healthcare, Aetna, and Cigna.
Before scheduling an appointment, Talkiatry will inform you whether your insurance is accepted, if you have a deductible or copay, and what your total out-of-pocket cost will be. For eligible clients, copays range from $20 – $50 per session.
Overview
Talkiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric care for conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. They either match you with providers, including licensed psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, or let you choose your own. Talkiatry provides services for children 5+, with parent or guardian consent required for those under 18.
During the initial evaluation, which lasts one hour for adults and 75 minutes for children, you’ll work with your provider to develop a personalized treatment plan and schedule future appointments. If medication is recommended, prescriptions can be sent to your local pharmacy for convenient pickup, with the option to use insurance or pay out-of-pocket. Talkiatry’s providers are also able to prescribe stimulant and non-stimulant medications for ADHD, depending on state regulations.
For more, read our full Talkiatry review.
- Insurance Accepted: United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, Humana, & more.
- Services Offered: Provider-Specific
- Service Location: Nationwide
Grow Therapy has an expansive network of mental health professionals and robust search filters, allowing users to find a therapist who truly matches their needs and values. With therapy available in 50 states, psychiatry available in 46, and both online and in-person sessions available, Grow Therapy ensures personalized, accessible care is within reach for all.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Prescribes non-controlled meds
- Treats kids, teens, adults, & couples
Cons - No mobile app
- Provider availability varies
Cost
The cost of Grow Therapy varies based on your therapist, location, and whether you’re using insurance or paying out-of-pocket. Therapy sessions typically range from $75 – $250, with most providers being in-network with major insurance plans like United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, and Humana. For people who use their insurance, sessions cost an average of $22.
Overview
Grow Therapy is an online therapist directory offering access to a wide range of mental health professionals and services nationwide, including therapy and psychiatric treatment. Select providers within the platform offer medication management, making it a versatile option for those seeking comprehensive care.
The platform’s filtering options can be particularly helpful in finding the right therapist. Tailor your search by gender, age specialization, ethnicity, availability, virtual or in-person sessions, talk therapy vs. medication management, and identity, ensuring you connect with a provider who checks all your boxes.
To learn how Grow Therapy works, check out our comprehensive Grow Therapy review.
- Insurance accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Premera, Optum, Carelon, Gatorcare, Anthem, Medicare, Regence, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy (13+), Couples, & Psychiatry (18+)
- Service location: US & Canada
Talkspace, a leader in the online mental health space, offers widespread coverage. The real standout is their offering of Medicare services. They provide access to therapy for millions of traditional Medicare members across 11 states, with coverage expanding daily. They are a private, accessible platform where individuals can discuss a wide range of issues, from relationships and retirement to grief and life changes.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts most traditional Medicare plans
- Easy to switch therapist
Cons - Monthly costs depend on your location
- Psychiatry only for individuals 18+
Cost
Talkspace accepts insurance from most major providers, including Aetna, Cigna, Optum, Premera, Anthem, Medicare, Regence, Gatorcare, and more. Covered members pay an average copay of $15 – $25. Many employers also cover Talkspace for free, either directly with an employer code or through an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP).
For those using their insurance, if you haven’t met your deductible, you may be responsible for additional fees. You can also use your FSA or HSA card for Talkspace therapy.
Talkspace has three self-pay subscription packages, but cost depends on your geographic location:
- Messaging-only: Starts at $69 per week
- Live therapy: Starts at $99 per week
- Messaging + live therapy: Starts at $129 per week
Talkspace Psychiatry costs $249.00 for an initial assessment and $125 for all follow-ups. There are discounts available, as well as an option to bundle follow-up appointments when you purchase an initial assessment.
Overview
Talkspace is a leader in the mental health space. Offering virtual one-on-one therapy sessions and psychiatry services, Talkspace provides treatment for over 150 mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief, anger management, OCD, and BPD
The platform also offers specialized therapy for LGBTQIA+ individuals and veterans, catering to their diverse needs. Patients are matched with a dedicated therapist licensed in their state, ensuring personalized and consistent care that is tailored to their specific circumstances.
For more information on whether Talkspace is a good fit for you, read our detailed Talkspace review.
- Insurance Accepted: Cigna, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, & more.
- Services Offered: Individual Therapy & Psychiatry (10+)
- Service Location: US & Puerto Rico
MDLive empowers users with the ability to select their own provider, ensuring they find the right fit for their health needs. This flexibility, combined with their extensive network of board certified doctors, licensed therapists, and psychiatrists, makes MDLive a standout choice for personalized, accessible care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Appointments in as little as 24 hours
- Accepts many major insurance plans
- Choice between phone or video appointment
Cons - Not psychiatry for kids under 10
- No options for text therapy
Cost
Depending on your insurance, copays may be as low as $0. MDLive accepts insurance from most major providers, including Cigna, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and more. Like all of MDLive’s services, there is no monthly subscription plan. You can use HSA or FSA funds to pay out-of-pocket costs.
The following are out-of-pocket costs:
- Urgent care: $82
- Talk therapy: $108 per session
- Psychiatry: $284 initial assessment; $108 for follow-ups
Overview
MDLive is a telehealth platform that offers convenient, virtual access to healthcare professionals, including mental health providers. With services available 24/7 via phone, video, or mobile app, MDLive connects users with board-certified doctors, licensed therapists, and psychiatrists for a wide range of health concerns.
The platform provides treatment for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, stress, and more, offering both therapy and medication management. MDLive also supports primary care services, urgent care, and behavioral health, making it a comprehensive solution for various healthcare needs.
Patients can easily schedule appointments, receive prescriptions, and manage their health, all within a user-friendly digital environment.
To learn more about everything MDLive offers, please read our full MDLive review.
- Insurance accepted: Humana, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Beacon Health, TriCare, Cigna, United Health, Medicare.gov, Tufts Health Plan, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy & Psychiatry (13+)
- Service Location: US
Thriveworks provides the flexibility of both virtual and in-person sessions, with some states offering physical locations that can expand your medication options. Many providers also offer next-day appointments, with availability during early mornings, evenings, and weekends, ensuring that you can find a time that fits your schedule.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Evening & weekend appointments
- In-person services in select cities
Cons - Psychiatry not available at every in-person location
- In-person locations mainly in larger US cities
Cost
Thriveworks accepts insurance from nearly 600 providers, including Humana, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Beacon Health, TriCare, Cigna, United Health, Medicare.gov, Tufts Health Plan, and more. Per session, most clients using their insurance owe a $0 – $50 copay.
Thriveworks doesn’t accept cash payments; however, self-pay depends on service type, state, and therapist. Typically, your-long therapy costs $99 – $199. Thriveworks offers psychiatric care in select states and select in-person locations. Psychiatry costs $99 – $349, with exact costs depending on the provider and your location. Initial psychiatry sessions are between 50 – 60 minutes and follow-up appointments are 30 minutes long.
Overview
Thriveworks Counseling is a nationwide franchise offering both online and in-person mental health services for teens, individuals, couples, and families. However, it’s important to note that the availability of specific services and accepted insurance plans may vary by location.
At Thriveworks, therapy sessions last 60 minutes, starting with a comprehensive client intake during the first appointment. For those considering psychiatric care, initial psychiatry appointments also run 60 minutes, with follow-up sessions typically lasting around 30. A key advantage of Thriveworks is the ability to choose your own provider from their online directory, ensuring that you find a therapist who aligns with your needs.
For those who prefer the flexibility of online therapy but may need in-person care for certain prescriptions, Thriveworks offers a unique blend of services. You can see a therapist online and, if needed, visit an in-person psychiatrist, making it a versatile option for comprehensive mental health support.
For more information, read our comprehensive Thriveworks Counseling review.
- Insurance Accepted: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Beacon Health, Emblem Health, United Healthcare, Corvel, Caremark, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy (10+) & Psychiatry (18+)
- Service Location: US
Amwell not only accepts insurance from the vast majority of providers, they also treat a variety of women’s physical and mental health concerns – more so than many other online therapy providers. These conditions include everything from pelvic pain and sexual health to postpartum depression and menopause.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Choose your own provider
- Pay per appointment, as needed
- Prenatal, postpartum, & menopause counseling available
Cons - Psychiatry only available for 18+
- No text-based therapy available
- No discount for bundling
Cost
Amwell partners with over 55 major health plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Beacon Health, Emblem Health, United Healthcare, Corvel, and Caremark. This can substantially lower out-of-pocket costs for mental health services. Patients can also receive a superbill for potential reimbursement or utilize their FSA or HSA funds.
Amwell’s self-pay options are as follows:
- Therapy sessions: Costs range from $112 – $135 for a 45-minute appointment, depending on the qualifications of the provider you choose.
- Psychiatric services: An initial 45-minute evaluation costs $279, while follow-up appointments are priced at $109 for a 15-minute session.
Overview
Amwell is an on-demand telemedicine platform and digital ecosystem that offers online therapy to kids and teens (10-17), adults, and couples. Amwell also offers women’s mental health, including postpartum, prenatal, and menopausal counseling.
Amwell requires you to create an account prior to gaining access to its website. Once your account is created, you can add your insurance information and personal details and schedule your first appointment. Amwell allows you to filter their therapist directory by gender, language (English, Spanish or Bengali), and whether you want to see a therapist or psychologist.
For more about how to attend your first live session, read our in-depth Amwell review.
- Insurance accepted? United Healthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem, Optum, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy, Psychiatry (1-17), & Acute Stabilization (8-25)
- Service Location: US
Bend Health works with several major insurance providers and partners with select in-person hospitals to provide the best mental health treatment for kids, teens, and young adults up to 25. Working closely with pediatricians and primary care providers, Bend can also provide quicker access to care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Can collaborate with pediatrician
- Coaching, Therapy, & Medication Management
Cons - Doesn’t accept Medicaid
- Can't choose your own provider
- No same-day appointments
Cost
Bend Health is in-network with many major health insurance plans, including United Healthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem, Optum, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Humana. Co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles are based on your individual coverage. If your teen’s primary care doctor refers you to Bend Health, the cost for care may be covered. Bend Health also accepts FSA/HSA cards to pay for therapy.
Self-pay therapy subscriptions cost as follows:
- Coaching: For $199.99 monthly you receive a comprehensive care plan, one-on-one live 30-minute video coaching sessions, unlimited messaging, parent-skills training, real-time video updates about your teen, and the option to upgrade if needed.
- Coaching & Therapy: For $399.99 monthly you receive a comprehensive care plan, one-on-one live 30-minute video coaching and therapy sessions, unlimited messaging, parent-skills training, real-time video updates about your teen, and the option to upgrade if needed.
- Coaching, Therapy, & Medications: For $549.99 monthly you receive everything in the coaching & therapy plan plus an initial evaluation by a psychiatrist, 15-minute follow-up appointments and medication if needed
Overview
Bend Health, available in all 50 states, is a subscription-based online therapy platform that allows kids, teens, and young adults to attend live, 30-minute video sessions with a care team that consists of a mental health coach and licensed therapist. In between sessions, patients and parents/caregivers keep in touch with their team through text messages, and can expect a response by the next business day.
As mentioned in our Bend Health review, the company now offers neuropsychological evaluations to help measure attention/concentration, executive functioning, mood and personality, depression, and more. These evaluations can help your doctors diagnose your child or teen and give them the support and skills they need.
- Insurance accepted? Aetna, Humana, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, & more.
- Services Offered: Therapy & MAT for opioid, alcohol, and stimulant addictions
- Service Location: 5 US States
Workit Health’s MAT program, which provides services for opioid and substance use addiction, is available for people in Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, and Texas. WorkIt Health also treats co-occurring conditions and disorders. Both their online resources and intake representatives are informative and nonjudgmental.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts most Medicare/Medicaid
- Medication sent to local pharmacy
- At-home screening offered
- Provide therapist-led group therapy
Cons - Cost/services depends on location
- Only available in select states
Cost
Workit Health costs depend on your customized treatment plan, location, and insurance provider. They accept insurance from most major providers, including Aetna, Humana, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Depending on location, they also accept a range of Medicare/Medicaid plans.
Workit Health offers weekly payment plans for those paying out of pocket, but this varies by state. Medication costs will depend on your insurance plan.
If insurance isn’t an option, they also accept self-pay.
- Opioid Use Disorder Program self-pay: First appointment is $90; $15 due upon sign-up; $75/week ($300/month) subscription starts when you attend your first appointment.
- Alcohol Use Disorder Program self-pay: First month is $250; $100 due upon sign-up; the $150/month subscription starts when you attend your first appointment.
- Stimulant Use Disorder Program self-pay: First appointment is $90; $15 charged at sign-up; the $75/week ($300/month) subscription starts after you attend your first appointment.
For more information about costs and insurance eligibility, read our in-depth Workit Health review.
Overview
Workit Health is an online medication-assisted treatment (MAT) platform for substance use disorders. The MAT program is available in select states, and recovery coaching is available nationwide. The focus is evidence-based harm reduction, community connection, and behavioral health support.
During Workit Health’s onboarding process, you’ll answer questions about the addictions, behaviors, or mental health conditions you’d like to address. You’ll also state your personal goals, like if you’d prefer to just cut back or quit entirely. If you’re interested in medication-assisted treatment, you’ll be matched with a clinician who will conduct a medical evaluation.
Patients receiving medication-assisted treatment will be required to take drug tests so clinicians can monitor their progress and modify medications as needed. Workit Health makes it easy to complete drug tests via the app.
For more information, read our full Workit Health review.
- Insurance Accepted? Optum, Oxford, PHCS, United Healthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more.
- Services Offered: Individual Therapy (18+)
- Service Location: US
Inclusive Therapists is the only provider on our list who actively serves the needs of marginalized communities. Trained to recognize their own biases and adapt their therapeutic approaches as needed, providers foster a safe, welcoming space for all patients. You can choose your own or engage with their free matching service.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Choose your own therapist
- Highly vetted therapists
Cons - Cost/coverage depend on provider
- Requires upfront work from user
Cost
All Inclusive Therapists are independent practitioners, so prices and accepted insurance plans vary. Individual sessions can range from $100 – $200. Some providers offer sliding scale therapy. Commonly accepted providers are Optum, Oxford, PHCS, United Healthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Certain providers may accept Medicare/Medicaid.
Overview
Inclusive Therapist is an online therapist directory dedicated to serving those in the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Operated by its sibling non-profit, Mental Health Liberation, it is one of the most match-driven directories available, and it includes match navigation support from their team.
As it’s a directory, it requires the user to research individual profiles, reach out, and compare costs and offerings; however, highly detailed search filters make the process more manageable.
Specific search filters include:
- Insurance coverage
- Sliding scale rates (e.g., $0-$25, $25-50)
- Identity
- Language
- Cultural knowledge
Learn more on our comprehensive Inclusive Therapists review.
Compare the Best Online Therapy With Insurance
| Price | $95 - $349 | $20-50 per session | $75 - $250 per session | $276 - $436 monthly | $108 - $284 per service | $99 - $349 per service | $109 - $279 per service | $199.99 - $549.99 monthly | Treatment-Based | Provider-Based |
| Insurance |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-Specific |
| Services Offered | Therapy, Psychiatry, & Crisis Care | Psychiatry | Provider-Based | Therapy, Couples, & Psychiatry | Individual Therapy | Therapy & Psychiatry | Therapy & Psychiatry | Therapy, Psychiatry, & Acute Stabilization | Therapy & MAT for addiction | Individual Therapy |
| Service locations | US | 43 US States | US | US & Canada | US & Puerto Rico | US | US | US | 5 US States | US |
| Price | |||||||||
| $95 - $349 | $20-50 per session | $75 - $250 per session | $276 - $436 monthly | $108 - $284 per service | $99 - $349 per service | $109 - $279 per service | $199.99 - $549.99 monthly | Treatment-Based | Provider-Based |
| Insurance | |||||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-Specific |
| Services Offered | |||||||||
| Therapy, Psychiatry, & Crisis Care | Psychiatry | Provider-Based | Therapy, Couples, & Psychiatry | Individual Therapy | Therapy & Psychiatry | Therapy & Psychiatry | Therapy, Psychiatry, & Acute Stabilization | Therapy & MAT for addiction | Individual Therapy |
| Service locations | |||||||||
| US | 43 US States | US | US & Canada | US & Puerto Rico | US | US | US | 5 US States | US |
Final Verdict
“In our effort to determine the best online therapy platforms that accept insurance, Brightside Health emerged as our top choice. Their acceptance of most major insurance plans, along with a comprehensive suite of services—including clinically proven therapy, personalized psychiatry, crisis care, and specialized teen care—sets them apart.
Brightside’s integrated approach, which combines therapy with medication management, ensures that individuals receive highly effective, tailored treatment. Additionally, their flexibility in accommodating those without insurance through a self-pay option and acceptance of certain Medicare and Medicaid plans makes Brightside a versatile and accessible option for a wide range of people seeking quality care.
Brightside Health primarily serves teens and adults, offering therapy to those aged 13 and up and psychiatric services to those aged 18 and older. For younger children who need online therapy covered by insurance, Bend Health is an excellent alternative. Bend Health works with many major insurance providers and partners with select in-person hospitals to provide top-tier treatment for kids, teens, and young adults.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Online Therapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health conditions.1 The key is to make sure you’re working with licensed, qualified professionals and that the platform provides the appropriate level of care.
What Types of Therapy are Typically Covered by Insurance Through Online Platforms?
Most insurance plans cover a range of therapy types, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based treatments. Some plans may also cover group therapy, family therapy, and medication management.
Why is it Important to Contact my Insurance Provider Before Starting Online Therapy?
Even if an online therapy platform accepts your insurance, your plan might not offer the necessary coverage. That’s why it’s crucial to contact your insurance provider before signing up for any services. While many large companies will run an eligibility check for you, it’s always wise to do preliminary research on your own.
How Do I Verify if my Insurance Covers Online Therapy Services?
Ask your insurance provider these important questions before starting online therapy:
- Does my plan have mental health benefits through another carrier?
- Are there any deductibles that must be met before these benefits are active?
- Can you tell me how much I will owe for a copay or coinsurance for a visit?
- Are there any out-of-network benefits? If so, is there an out-of-network deductible? How much is reimbursed? How do I submit an out-of-network claim for reimbursement?
- Does my plan cover a subscription with [Company Name]? How long will my subscription be covered/at what point does my subscription stop being covered?
- Do I need a referral or prior authorization for treatment with [Company Name]?
- Are there any limits on the number of therapy visits I can have in a given time period?
How Can I Avoid Surprises Related to Insurance Costs When Using Online Therapy?
By doing preliminary research and asking your insurance provider targeted questions, you can clarify what is covered, what costs you might incur, and any limits on your therapy sessions.
What are Key Considerations Regarding Coverage Limits and Out-of-Network Benefits?
Consider therapy session limits, out-of-network benefits, deductibles and coinsurance, prior authorization and referrals, the reimbursement process, and long-term coverage.
- Therapy Session Limits: Some insurance plans may cap the number of therapy sessions you can have within a certain time period (e.g., annually). It’s important to know if there are any limits so you can plan accordingly.
- Out-of-Network Benefits: If the online therapy platform you choose is out-of-network, you should ask your insurance provider if your plan offers any out-of-network benefits. Understand the out-of-network deductible, how much of the therapy cost will be reimbursed, and the process for submitting reimbursement claims.
- Deductibles and Coinsurance: Find out if there are deductibles that need to be met before your insurance covers therapy sessions, as well as any coinsurance responsibilities you might have for out-of-network care.
- Prior Authorization and Referrals: Some insurance plans require prior authorization or a referral from your primary care provider before they will cover therapy, especially for out-of-network providers.
- Reimbursement Process: If using out-of-network providers, understand the steps required to submit claims for reimbursement, including any necessary documentation and timelines for claims.
- Long-Term Coverage: To avoid unexpected lapses in coverage, ask if there are any time limits on how long your therapy sessions or subscriptions with a specific company will be covered.
Can I Use my Insurance for Medication Management Through Online Therapy Platforms?
Yes, many online therapy platforms offer medication management services that are covered by insurance. This typically involves consultations with a licensed psychiatrist who can prescribe and manage medications as part of your treatment plan.
Which Online Therapy Platforms Accept Medicare/Medicaid?
Not all online therapy platforms accept Medicare or Medicaid. However, some, like Brightside and Talkspace, offer coverage through these programs. Always check with the platform and your provider to confirm coverage.
Are There Any Additional Costs Even if my Online Therapy is Covered by Insurance?
Yes, there may still be copays, deductibles, or coinsurance depending on your plan. It’s important to clarify these costs with both your insurance provider and the therapy platform before beginning treatment.
What Should I Do if my Insurance Doesn't Cover Online Therapy?
If your insurance doesn’t cover online therapy, you might consider platforms that offer affordable self-pay options. Some platforms provide sliding scale fees based on income or offer discounts for certain populations.
What if I Want to Switch Therapists on an Online Platform—Does my Insurance Still Cover it?
Most insurance plans will continue to cover your therapy sessions if you switch therapists within the same platform, as long as the new therapist is also in-network. Always confirm this with both the platform and your insurance provider to avoid unexpected costs.
Talkspace - Online Therapy With or Without Insurance
Talkspace has thousands of experienced, fully licensed therapists to work with. Answer a few questions to get matched on Talkspace. Covered by most major insurance plans. Talkspace also accepts Medicare in some states. The average copay is $15, but many people pay $0. Try Talkspace
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Pappas, S. (2023, August 31). “Online Talk Therapy Works as Well as an In-Person Session, a New Study Shows.” Scientific American. Retrieved from: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/online-talk-therapy-works-as-well-as-an-in-person-session-a-new-study-shows/
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: Emily Laubham, B.A. (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (New Medical Reviewer)
Primary Changes: Added five new platforms (Brightside, Grow Therapy, MDLive, Amwell, Inclusive Therapists) and removed two platforms (Teladoc, Cerebral). Removed section “More Online Therapy Options That Accept Insurance.” Fact-checked and edited entire article for improved readability and clarity. New content written by Emily Laubham, B.A. and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, M.D.
Author: Caitlin Bell, MA (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Updated Teladoc entry with the newest information from Teladoc review.
Author: Caitlin Bell, MA (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Complete revamp of overall style; updated logos for all companies.
Author: Caitlin Bell, MA
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD
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