Octave is an online mental health practice offering individual, teen, couples, and family therapy services. It earned 3 out of 5 stars overall during our independent review process. Octave provides live video, phone, and texting sessions. Services are available in various locations across CA, CT, FL, NJ, NY, TX, and D.C. Out-of-pocket costs vary, and insurance is accepted.
Cost: Varies, depending on provider
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Pros & Cons
- Offers an inclusive and supportive environment
- A wide range of experienced providers
- Remote and Online Convenience
- Individual, family, and couples counseling
- Provider selection is done for you, you can request a provider but it’s not guaranteed
- Ultimate monthly price is not determined until after you are matched with a provider
- Limited user reviews available online
- Not available in all states
Who Is This Right For
- Those with busy schedules
- Couples seeking support
- Individuals seeking group-based learning
Overview
Octave is a mental health practice that offers evidence-based therapy services to individuals, couples, teens, and families. They provide various treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Octave offers pay-per-session options. They have various plans that offer different support levels, including video, phone, and live-texting appointments. Their services are available to clients ages 18+.
If you’re looking for other counseling options covered by insurance, Talkspace could be a good option. Meanwhile, those looking for individual therapy on a cash-pay subscription basis might be well served by BetterHelp. Or, if you’re looking for psychiatry and therapy bundled together, Brightside Health is your best bet.
Octave Key Takeaways
- Octave aims to make mental health more accessible and affordable, focusing on pricing transparency. They accept some insurance, but there is typically an out-of-pocket cost.
- Octave takes a holistic approach, combining various care modalities to provide comprehensive support.
- The Octave team consists of experienced licensed providers specializing in different areas of mental health.
- Octave offers convenience through virtual therapy sessions but may have limited geographical availability, which they aim to expand with recent funding for 2024 and fewer user reviews compared to more established providers.
- Potential clients must be 18 years of age or older.
- You will not know the exact cost of treatment until you’re matched with a provider.
Top Rated Online Therapy Services
BetterHelp – Best Overall
“BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that quickly connects you with a licensed counselor or therapist and earned 4 out of 5 stars.” Visit BetterHelp
Online-Therapy.com – Great Alternative
In addition to therapy, all Online-Therapy subscriptions include a self-guided CBT course. Visit Online-Therapy.com
What Is Octave?
Octave is a mental health practice that offers evidence-based therapy services to individuals, couples, teens, and families. They provide various treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Octave offers pay-per-session options. They have various plans that offer different support levels, including video, phone, and live-texting appointments. Their services are available to clients ages 18+.
Octave offers payment both through insurance as well as private payment. Though Octave is affiliated with some insurance companies, they also provide out-of-network services. You can use a cost estimator on the website and in the FAQs for more details about your coverage and service cost.
Octave offers a wide range of treatment options for various mental health concerns. They can provide therapy for a diverse range of diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and more. Octave offers individual, family, and couples therapy as well as specialized workshops.
Octave offers workshops specializing in different areas, such as motherhood, finding your value, trauma healing, and more. These are free to the public and are additional support separate from therapy.
How Much Does Octave Cost?
Octave is priced per session, and costs depend on insurance benefits, affiliation, and out-of-pocket cost responsibility. You will not find out the exact cost until you are matched with a provider.
Does Octave Accept Insurance?
Yes, Octave is currently affiliated with Aetna, Anthem, Health Net, MHN, and United HealthCare. Each state has different eligibility. You can use the cost estimator to see what your state covers within those providers. Knowing your insurance coverage before enrolling is important so you have an accurate idea of your costs.
Out-of-Network Benefits
Although Octave does not submit for reimbursement to insurance companies, they will provide a superbill for members seeking out-of-network benefits..
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. Try Talkspace
How to Get Started With Octave
To get started with Octave, simply follow the steps below to sign up for your first therapy session.
1. Navigate to the Octave services tab
2. Select the service your interested in, for example Individual Therapy
3. Click “Get Started”
4. Answer the questionnaire that populates
a. This may consistent of some assessments based on your responses for example the Generalized Anxiety Disorder screening tool for people struggling with anxiety
5. Enter in any clinician preferences you may have
6. A navigator will be in touch to match you with a clinician
Octave Key Features: Detailed Review
Octave offers online therapy for individuals, families, and couples. They have a sliding scale and a cost estimator, as each cost varies based on insurance specifics.
Octave Individual Therapy
Live therapy sessions with Octave typically last around 45 minutes to an hour. The frequency of sessions varies based on individual needs and therapy goals, with many individuals attending sessions weekly or bi-weekly.
Regarding homework or in-app activities, Octave therapists may assign additional exercises or practices to support the therapy process. These could include journaling, reflection exercises, or guided activities through the Octave app.
Octave offers flexibility in scheduling therapy sessions, including evening and weekend appointments, to accommodate individuals’ busy schedules. This ensures that therapy can be attended at convenient times for most individuals.
Octave Couples Therapy
To sign up for couples therapy with Octave, couples typically undergo a similar intake process as individuals seeking therapy. It is common for couples to have a shared account where both individuals can access and communicate with the therapist. However, partners can also message the therapist independently, facilitating open and individualized communication between all parties involved.
In addition to therapy sessions, Octave provides additional resources for couples. These resources may include articles, activities, or exercises to support relationship growth and communication.
The cost for couples therapy with Octave may vary depending on the specifics of insurance, but the typical cost is listed as $190-275 per session. It is recommended to visit Octave’s website to use the estimator tool or contact their representatives directly to obtain accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Octave Family Therapy
Octave offers family therapy to help address and improve familial relationships and dynamics. Anyone within a family system can initiate the sign-up process for family therapy. This could be a parent, guardian, or any other family member who recognizes the need for support and seeks assistance in fostering healthier family dynamics. It’s important to remember that Octave does not see clients under the age of 18, so it can limit some families from accessing treatment.
Octave Workshops
Octave offers workshops as part of its mental health support services. These workshops provide group-based learning opportunities to enhance mental well-being and build skills for managing various aspects of life. The workshops cover various topics, addressing areas such as stress management, mindfulness, communication, self-care, and more.
To access Octave’s workshops, individuals typically need to sign up and register for the specific workshop(s) they are interested in. The workshops may be conducted virtually through online platforms, allowing participants to join from the comfort of their own homes.
Currently, Octave’s workshops are free. Octave representatives encourage members to continually check the workshop schedule page to check for upcoming events.
Some examples of Octave workshops may include:
- Stress Management Workshops
- Mindfulness and Meditation Workshops
- Effective Communication Skills Workshops
- Emotional Resilience Workshops
- Self-Care and Wellness Workshops.
Who Is Octave Right For?
Octave is a mental health platform that is right for individuals who are seeking convenient and accessible mental health support. It is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules, couples and families seeking support, and individuals looking for group workshops
Those with Busy Schedules
Octave offers flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, making it suitable for individuals with limited availability during regular business hours. With online therapy, clients can schedule sessions from the comfort of their homes, offices, or anywhere else with an internet connection, allowing them to fit therapy sessions into their busy schedules easily. The added convenience of virtual sessions also means that clients can access therapy even while traveling, making it an ideal option for individuals with busy and mobile lives.
Couples Seeking Support
Octave’s couples therapy provides a platform for couples to work on their relationship dynamics, communicate effectively, and foster a healthier bond. Some couples may decide to do treatment together while physically being a part to be able to have some privacy to process after a session. Online therapy allows for this!
Families Looking to Improve Their Dynamics
In Octave’s family therapy, therapists work closely with families to identify and understand the dynamics that may be causing tension or conflicts within the family unit. They provide a safe and supportive space where each family member can express their thoughts and feelings, fostering open and honest communication.
Through various therapeutic techniques and exercises, Octave helps families develop effective problem-solving skills, enhance empathy and understanding, and promote healthier ways of relating to one another. Whether it’s navigating through transitions, resolving conflicts, or building stronger connections, Octave’s family therapy offers guidance and support to families looking to improve their dynamics and create a more harmonious and nurturing environment for everyone involved. Remember, this is limited to individuals 18+.
Individuals Seeking Group-Based Learning
Trained professionals lead Octave’s workshops in a supportive and interactive environment that emphasizes experiential learning. They are designed to meet the needs of individuals seeking to enhance their personal growth, overcome specific difficulties, or improve their quality of life. In these group settings, participants learn and practice various evidence-based techniques and strategies to help them manage stress, develop stronger relationships, and achieve their goals.
Additionally, Octave’s workshops allow individuals to connect and engage with others who share similar experiences and struggles, offering a sense of community and belonging that can be essential for long-term healing and growth.
Would you like to try therapy?
BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $65 per week. Take a Free Online Assessment and get matched with the right therapist for you.
Who Might Want an Alternatives to Octave?
While Octave is a great option for many individuals seeking mental health support, certain groups may require alternatives.Those seeking in-person treatment, specialized therapy, or medication management will want to look for other platforms.
Individuals Looking for In-Person or Specialized Therapy
Octave primarily offers virtual therapy services, which may not be suitable for those who prefer or require face-to-face interactions with their therapist. Additionally, while Octave’s therapists offer a wide range of expertise, individuals seeking specialized therapy modalities must seek an alternative platform.
You can often find a highly qualified therapist by searching an online therapist directory. You can select filters for dates and times, specialties, in-person or online services, and more when you search a directory.
Individuals Seeking to Use Their Insurance Coverage
Octave does not currently accept many insurances for payment. For individuals relying heavily on insurance to cover the cost of therapy, seeking alternative platforms that accept insurance may be a better fit. Several major and well-established online therapy platforms accepting insurance. Oftentimes, you can even find a platform that offers therapy and medication management.
Those Seeking Medication Management
While Octave offers therapy services, it does not provide direct medication management. Individuals in need of medication management alongside therapy may need to explore other options, such as seeking a psychiatrist or a platform that offers integrated therapy and medication management services. Platforms like Brightside Health or Cerebral offer subscription plans combining therapy and medication management.
To learn more about their subscription options, read our detailed review of Brightside or our Cerebral review.
Brightside Health - Life-Changing Mental Health Care
If you’re struggling with serious mental illness, finding the right medication can make a difference. Brightside Health treatment plans start at $95 per month. Following a free online evaluation and receiving a prescription, you can get FDA approved medications delivered to your door.
Octave User Reviews
The reviews from various sources, including Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and Google, highlight consistent concerns regarding communication, professionalism, and cost associated with Octave’s services. Customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of professionalism and perceived high costs. These sentiments are echoed across different platforms, indicating a common theme in customer experiences.
Poor Communication
Yelp reviews highlight that Octave therapy has received criticism for poor communication. Customers have expressed frustration with difficulties in contacting the therapists or receiving timely responses to their inquiries. These communication issues have led to a decline in customer satisfaction and the perceived effectiveness of the therapy sessions.
High Cost
According to Better Business Bureau reviews, Octave therapy has faced criticism for its high cost. Customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the pricing structure of the therapy services, perceiving them to be expensive compared to the value and benefits received. This concern about the cost of Octave therapy has been a recurring theme among customers, impacting their overall satisfaction with the services.
Low professionalism
Google reviews for Octave therapy have highlighted concerns regarding low professionalism. Some customers have expressed disappointment with the level of professionalism displayed by the therapists, citing behavior such as tardiness, unpreparedness, and non-responsiveness. These issues have led to a decline in customer confidence in Octave therapy’s ability to address their concerns and provide quality mental health services adequately.
Octave Vs. Competitors
Octave states that it distinguishes itself from competitors by offering comprehensive and personalized mental health services through a combination of online therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group-based learning workshops.
Octave Vs. Talkspace
Both Octave and Talkspace offer online therapy services, making mental health support more accessible and convenient. They both provide the opportunity to connect with licensed therapists through secure messaging, live chats, and video sessions. These platforms are suitable for individuals seeking therapy from the comfort of their own homes and those with busy schedules.
However, there are some differences between the two platforms. Octave aims to provide a more comprehensive mental health experience by offering individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and mental health workshops. They prioritize a holistic approach to mental well-being. Talkspace, on the other hand, focuses solely on individual, couples, and teen therapy while offering a subscription-based payment model. They also have a larger pool of therapists, providing users with more options to choose from.
You can learn more about subscription costs by reading our comprehensive review of Talkspace.
Octave Vs. BetterHelp
Both Octave and BetterHelp offer online therapy services, providing individuals with the convenience of accessing mental health support from their own homes. Users can connect with licensed therapists through messaging, live chats, and video sessions.
Octave and BetterHelp differ in terms of their offerings and target audience. Octave provides a more holistic mental health experience by offering individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and workshops. They focus on a comprehensive approach to mental well-being. BetterHelp, on the other hand, primarily focuses on individual therapy. They have a large pool of therapists, providing users with a wide range of matching options, plus utilizing a subscription-based payment model.
To learn more about their subscription option, read our detailed review of BetterHelp.
Final Verdict
History of Octave
Octave was founded in 2019 by Sandeep Acharya, MBBS, MBA, and Eric Gullichsen, MBA. Its mission is to provide accessible and high-quality mental health care to individuals. Since its founding, Octave has been committed to improving the mental well-being of its clients through innovative online therapy services.
Octave has made strides in making therapy more affordable and accessible. They have introduced different pricing options based on individual needs, making therapy more flexible and affordable for various budgets. Additionally, Octave has expanded its services to include couples therapy, family therapy, and workshops, allowing clients to explore different avenues in their mental health journey.
Octave continues to evolve and has plans for further expansion to reach more individuals needing mental health support. They are dedicated to continuously improving their platform and expanding their services to meet the needs of their clients better.
Frequently Asked Questions About Octave
What Credentials do Octave Therapists Hold?
Octave therapists undergo a vetting process to ensure they meet the necessary credentials and qualifications. They hold licenses such as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). In addition to their licenses, Octave therapists possess specialized training and experience in various areas of mental health. They bring a wide range of specialties and backgrounds to the table, ensuring that clients receive individualized and expert care.
How Am I Matched With a Therapist on Octave?
After filling out the initial forms and information questionnaire, Octave specialists will match you with a therapist.
Can I Change Therapists?
If you are interested in changing your therapist, you can email the support email ([email protected]). You can search through providers available in your area and request a specific provider, but due to availability, it is not guaranteed.
Can I use my FSA or HSA Funds?
I contacted customer service to confirm if they accept FSA or HSA funds, and I have not received an answer since this publication. I would recommend discussing with your HSA or FSA provider to get details!
How Do I Cancel My Subscription/Account with Octave?
Octave does not have a subscription, but you can cancel your account login anytime.
Does Octave Offer Refunds?
If you are unhappy with your service you can email [email protected] but all fees are nonrefundable.
Is Octave HIPAA Compliant?
Octave is HIPAA compliant and has a variety of privacy features. To learn more, you can read Octave’s privacy policy and Octave’s terms of service.
Summary Table of What Octave Offers
Cost of Online Therapy | $36-190 a session |
Geographic Coverage | California, Connecticut, Florida, NJ, NY, Texas, Washington DC |
Age Limitations | 18+ |
Provider Choices | Matched |
Can You Change Therapists? | Yes |
Speed to First Appointment | Between 3 days to one month depending on clinician availability. |
Frequency of Appointments | Varies based on need, coverage, and affordability |
Messaging with Therapist Between Appointments | Varies based on need, coverage, and affordability |
Online Psychiatry Offered | No |
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Online Therapy
BetterHelp – Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 20,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. Take A Free Online Assessment and get matched with the right therapist for you. Free Assessment
Online Psychiatry
Hims / Hers If you’re living with anxiety or depression, finding the right medication match may make all the difference. Connect with a licensed healthcare provider in just 12 – 48 hours. Explore FDA-approved treatment options and get free shipping, if prescribed. No insurance required. Get Started
Medication + Therapy
Brightside Health – Together, medication and therapy can help you feel like yourself, faster. Brightside Health treatment plans start at $95 per month. United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna accepted. Following a free online evaluation and receiving a prescription, you can get FDA approved medications delivered to your door. Free Assessment
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