While searching for the best online group therapy and support groups, I worked with our team to review 53 platforms, focusing on cost, insurance compatibility, and access to licensed therapists. Drawing on my professional experience, as well as over three years of research and more than 250 hours of firsthand online therapy experience, I identified the top seven options for online group therapy.
Editor's Note
We regularly review and update our content to ensure it contains the most up-to-date information and trustworthy recommendations. In the most recent update to our Best of Online Group Support list, we removed 7 Cups. This decision followed our editorial team’s recent review of 7 Cups, which uncovered concerns with the quality and oversight of care provided on the platform, as well as reports that 7 Cups created therapist profiles without their knowledge or consent, misleading users into their services. Learn more in our article, “The Ghost Network Behind 7 Cups.”
Online Group Therapy & Support Groups
- Best Overall - Grouport | Read review
- Best Free Support Groups - Therapy Tribe | Read review
- Best For Toxic & Narcissistic Relationships - Circles | Read review
- Best For Women - LunaJoy | Read review
- Best For Men - Catalyss Counseling | Read review
- Best For Grief - Brave Health | Read review
- Best For Chronic Illness - Center For Chronic Illness | Read review
Favorites At a Glance
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Therapist-led groups -
Offers individual therapy too
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Doesn't accept insurance -
No single sessions
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Free to use -
Includes mood mapping & chat rooms
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Peer-led & moderated vs. therapist
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Anonymous, audio-only -
24/7 live support groups
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Doesn't accept insurance -
No option for video
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Specialized care for women -
Insurance accepted
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Only available in 13 US States -
No mobile app
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Men’s support groups nationwide -
Free 20-minute consultation
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Paid group screening ($150) -
Process Groups only in CO
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Accepts most insurance -
Therapist-led groups & peer support
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Expensive initial consultation -
Only available in eight states
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Free group therapy online -
Led by mental health professionals
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No option for individual therapy -
No mobile app
Why Trust Us
300+
Companies Reviewed
2,350+
Hours of Testing
1,150+
Data Points AnalyzedChoosing Therapy’s reviews are fair, honest, thorough and based on firsthand experience. To date, we’ve reviewed mental health solutions offered by more than 300 companies. That has involved more than 2,350 hours of firsthand use and consideration of over 1,150 data points. Our editorial policies outline a rigorous review process, but they all boil down to this: produce reviews that our own friends and family can rely on. Learn more here.
Comprehensive Reviews
Below, we discuss our favorite online group therapy and support groups options in detail.
- Price: $35/week, billed $140 monthly
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Location: US & International
- Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
Grouport, a stand-alone provider for group therapy online, offers a unique, therapist-led approach for specific diagnoses. With highly experienced therapists specializing in evidence-based treatments, Grouport provides a support system built on accountability, connection, and therapeutic progress. Catering to patients across all levels of acuity, Grouport redefines group therapy as a cornerstone of mental health care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts HSA/FSA cards
- Easy-to-navigate client portal
- One-on-one consultation upfront
- Offers online DBT skills training groups
- Subscription includes events/webinars
- Also offers individual, couples, teen, & family therapy
Cons - Does not accept insurance
- Doesn’t offer single sessions
- Little communication with therapist between sessions
- Some groups limited by location
Cost
Gouport’s therapy services are subscription-based and billed monthly. Each plan includes at least one session per week at the same time. Months with five sessions are included at no extra cost, lowering the per-session rate. Members can switch therapists or groups anytime and cancel at the end of their current billing period. Their Self-Guided DBT program, however, is a one-time purchase that provides lifetime access without any subscription fees.
Group Therapy
Most groups cost $35 per session, billed monthly at $140 (4 sessions/month). DBT groups are $25 per session, with an initial 12-week commitment billed at $299 (12 sessions). Afterward, membership continues at $100/month (4 sessions/month).
Members can join multiple group therapy sessions per week at discounted rates:
- 2 groups/week: $240/month ($60/week)
- 3 groups/week: $340/month ($85/week)
- 6 groups/week: $640/month ($160/week)
Group Therapy + Individual Therapy Plans:
- 1 group + 1 individual session/week: $548/month ($137/week)
- 2 groups + 1 individual session/week: $648/month ($162/week)
- 3 groups + 1 individual session/week: $748/month ($187/week)
- Virtual IOP (9 groups + 1 individual session/week): $1,348/month ($337/week)
For more on Grouport’s prices, read our in-depth review.
Overview
Grouport offers specialized, therapist-led group therapy for a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, OCD, substance abuse, and more. They also offer group dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills training nationwide. Their licensed professionals—psychologists, social workers, counselors, and marriage & family therapists—are experts in evidence-based methods and typically bring over a decade of experience. They also advertise as having consistent group members, so you can expect to see many of the same faces again and again.
To learn more about this platform, read our independent Grouport review.
- Price: Free
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Location: Nationwide
- Therapist or Peer-led? Peer
I included Therapy Tribe in our list of best online group therapy for their free support community, The Tribe. It is a welcoming, peer-driven space where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. This community is a resource for those seeking connection and compassion.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Free to join community
- Features member blog
- Can send & receive “kudos”
Cons - Support groups are only peer-led
- Message boards moderated by peers
- No mobile app
Cost
It’s free to join Therapy Tribe’s online wellness community.
Overview
Therapy Tribe is a comprehensive therapist directory that helps you find qualified mental health professionals tailored to your needs. In addition, they offer a free online support group, The Tribe, where you can connect with others facing similar challenges. It’s a welcoming space to share experiences and receive peer support.
The platform features niche “tribes,” focused on topics such as depression, OCD, and HIV/AIDs. You can choose to participate in the broader conversation or to limit your interactions to a core support group(s). This approach lets you find the level of interaction and support that best suits your needs.
- Cost: $299 for three months
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Location: Nationwide
- Therapist or Peer-led? Both
Circles provides a combination of expert-led group sessions, peer support, and educational tools for anyone recovering from a toxic relationship and narcissistic abuse. Their audio-only therapist-led groups are a safe place to connect anonymously with others who have experienced similar struggles.
Pros & Cons
Pros - 24/7 live support groups
- Seven-day free trial
- Access to message board forums
- Option to stay anonymous or just listen
- Has a mobile app
Cons - No option for video
- Doesn't accept insurance or HSA/FSA
- Limited to two topics: divorce & narcissistic relationships
- Not always clear when you’re talking to a mental health professional or a peer
- Doesn’t offer individual therapy
Cost
The initial cost of Circles is $299 for three months. Subsequently, users pay $19.90 monthly. They offer a seven-day free trial.
A Circles membership gives you access to:
- Weekly group sessions
- Sessions led by relationship experts
- Personal care manager
- Community support
If you’re interested in reading more about cost, read our Circles App review.
Overview
Circles helps you find the right support group based on your unique needs, whether you’re dealing with a narcissistic relationship or experiencing a divorce or breakup. The platform offers unlimited access to online audio support group meetings and message board forums hosted by mental health professionals. These audio-only meetings, called “Circles,” are available multiple times a day, and you also have the flexibility to guide your own peer support sessions whenever needed.
To learn more about this app, check out our Circles app review.
- Cost: $100 per session
- Insurance Accepted? Yes
- Location: 13 US States
- Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
LunaJoy is dedicated to women’s mental health and wellness. Their specialized groups provide a supportive space to address unique challenges, including anxiety, postpartum care, and life transitions, all led by expert therapists who prioritize evidence-based care tailored to women’s needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Specialized care for women
- Can prescribe medication
- Accepts insurance, including Medicare/Medicaid
Cons - Only available in 13 states
- No mobile app
Cost
Out-of-pocket, an initial psychiatry assessment with LunaJoy costs $240 with $150 per follow-up. Initial intake appointments for therapy cost $150 with $125 per follow-up. LunaJoy accepts insurance from many providers, including Medicare and Medicaid. Wellness Coaching or group therapy costs $100 for new and follow-up sessions.
For additional cost details, read our comprehensive review.
Overview
LunaJoy is dedicated to supporting women’s mental health through tailored therapy services, medication management, and group sessions. You can join hour-long expert-led groups on topics like stress and anxiety, self-care, pregnancy and postpartum, or perinatal grief and loss. Whether you’re navigating life transitions or looking to improve your overall well-being, LunaJoy provides a safe, compassionate space to connect, grow, and heal.
Read our full LunaJoy review.
- Cost: $60 per session
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Location: Some groups nationwide
- Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
I included Catalyss Counseling in our list of best online group therapy for their men’s virtual support groups, available nationwide. Designed specifically for men, these groups offer a safe space to connect deeply with others, explore toxic masculinity, and receive support for making positive life changes.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Nationwide support groups for men, women, & ADHD
- Free 20-minute consultation
Cons - Paid group screening ($150)
- Individual therapy & Process Groups only in CO
- Doesn’t have mobile app
Cost
There is a required initial $150 Group Screening/Intake appointment. Support Groups cost $60 per 55-minute session. There is also a $25/session grad student support group and young adult connections group, as well as a three-part $150 EcoTherapy Anxiety Group. Process & Therapy Groups cost $70 per 55-minute session.
Overview
Catalyss Counseling provides individual therapy in Colorado and virtual support groups for men, women, and people with ADHD nationwide. Their Online Men’s Support Group helps you build confidence in your masculinity, navigate challenges in healthy ways, strengthen relationships, and embrace accountability for personal growth—all within a supportive network of modern men.
- Cost: $82.50 per session
- Insurance Accepted? Yes
- Location: 8 US States
- Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
With Brave Health, you can do group therapy on its own or integrate it into a broad therapeutic plan for complicated grief. Sessions foster a sense of community and belonging, as each member plays a vital role in the group’s progress and success.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Most insurance accepted, including Medicare/Medicaid
- Clinician-led & peer support
- Over 40 therapist-led groups
- Can prescribe medication
Cons - Doesn’t have a mobile app
- Expensive initial consultation & per-session cost
- Only available in eight states
Cost
Brave Health costs $82.50 per group session. An initial consultation with a medical provider costs $390.00. The cost per individual hour-long counseling session is $300. Note: There is a $50 no-show fee.
Other outpatient costs include:
- 30-minute counseling appointment: $150
- 45-minute counseling appointment: $225
- 60-minute counseling appointment: $300
- Family services: $270
Overview
Brave Health offers individual therapy, psychiatry, marriage and family counseling, and clinician-led group therapy. Their evidence-based group therapy provides expert-guided support for challenges like grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, and anger. For Florida and New York patients, Brave Health also prescribes controlled substances, including stimulants, benzodiazepines, and hypnotics.
Virtual services like group therapy are available in the following states: Texas, Ohio, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and New York.
- Cost: Free
- Insurance Accepted? Not needed
- Location: Worldwide
- Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
Center for Chronic Illness is our Best for Chronic Illness because it covers services related to many forms of illness, including chronic pain and disability. It’s a beautiful example of free group therapy online. Even better, they also have group therapy for caregivers, who are often overlooked.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Free group therapy online
- Led by mental health professionals
- More groups for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, caregivers, & familiy
Cons - Doesn’t have a mobile app
- Two programs are location-specific
- No option for individual therapy
Cost
The Center for Chronic Illness provides access to free professional-led support groups and free group therapy online. They accept donations.
Overview
The Center for Chronic Illness (CCI) is dedicated to promoting well-being and reducing isolation for individuals impacted by chronic illness. They offer a range of support groups for anyone affected by chronic illness and rare diseases, including but not limited to Alzheimer’s, heart disease, Lyme disease, and Spina Bifida.
All of CCI’s programs are free, accessible virtually, and facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. By providing these supportive and educational resources, CCI ensures that individuals dealing with chronic health conditions receive the emotional and social support they need to improve their quality of life.
Compare the Best Online Group Therapy & Support Groups
| Price | $140 monthly | Free | $29.99 monthly | $100 per group session | $60 per session | $82.50 per session | Free |
| Insurance |  |  |  |  |  |  | Not needed |
| Therapist or Peer-led | Therapist | Peer | Both | Therapist | Therapist | Therapist | Therapist |
| Price | ||||||
| $140 monthly | Free | $29.99 monthly | $100 per group session | $60 per session | $82.50 per session | Free |
| Insurance | ||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  | Not needed |
| Therapist or Peer-led | ||||||
| Therapist | Peer | Both | Therapist | Therapist | Therapist | Therapist |
Other Companies to Consider
While the following companies didn’t make our top list, they are still worth considering, particularly if you’re someone looking for support with sobriety, OCD, or eating disorder recovery.
Cost: $24.99 – $249.99 monthly
Insurance Accepted? No
Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
Learn MoreShow less
Reframe is a private, anonymous online community that uses neuroscience to help individuals change their relationship with alcohol. Through its mobile app, users can access a seven-day free trial and benefit from personalized support via Thrive Coaching, which includes certified recovery coaches or licensed mental health professionals.
With a yearly cost averaging $100 and additional add-ons available, Reframe offers an innovative approach to lasting behavior change, though it does not accept insurance. Monthly plans range from $24.99 to $249.99.
Read our Reframe app review for additional details.
Cost: $14.99 – $249 monthly
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Therapist or Peer-led? Peer
Learn MoreShow less
Monument offers individual therapy, anonymous community forums, and peer-led support groups, with licensed therapists specializing in addiction recovery and alcohol therapy. You can choose bi-weekly sessions for $149 monthly or weekly sessions for $249 monthly. For insured patients, therapy and doctor appointments are covered by a co-pay, while those without insurance pay $100 per session.
To learn more, read our independent Monument review.
Cost: $120 – $240 per session
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
Learn MoreShow less
NOCD offers evidence-based treatment for OCD, focusing on exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy and mindfulness practices. Their group therapy sessions provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals with OCD and their families to connect and receive support. Individual therapy costs $120-240 per session before insurance, while group therapy is included at no extra cost. NOCD also provides a free initial consultation with an OCD specialist, along with self-help tools and educational resources in their app.
For more information, read our NOCD review.
Cost: Free
Insurance Accepted? Not needed
Therapist or Peer-led? Peer
Learn MoreShow less
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) offers a free, virtual space for peer support in eating disorder recovery. Their support groups include weekly 75-minute Zoom meetings, with a participant cap of 20 people on a first-come, first-serve basis. ANAD provides a welcoming community for individuals seeking recovery and connection.
Cost: Free with upgrades
Insurance Accepted? No
Therapist or Peer-led? Therapist
Learn MoreShow less
Mindful Care offers a variety of group therapy options, including a free support group, covering topics like anxiety, grief, sexual assault, chronic illness, substance use, and more. Available only in six states—Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Michigan, and New York—Mindful Care’s group therapy program, MindFit, is led by licensed therapists using a CBT approach. With daily groups on topics such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships, MindFit also offers specialized groups for the LGBTQ+ community, bipolar disorder, and current events anxiety.
Final Verdict
“After evaluating many options, we selected the best group therapy platforms. Grouport is the top pick overall, offering structured, therapist-led sessions across a variety of topics. For free support, Therapy Tribe provides a peer-based network that’s easily accessible. Circles is ideal for those navigating toxic or narcissistic relationships, while LunaJoy offers specialized support for women facing challenges like postpartum depression and anxiety.
Catalyss Counseling provides valuable support for men, addressing topics such as toxic masculinity and relationship issues. Brave Health stands out for grief support with its evidence-based group therapy. 7 Cups excels in community support through messaging, offering both peer and therapist interactions. For chronic illness, Center for Chronic Illness offers focused, peer-driven support.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can Group Therapy Be Done Online?
It’s actually quite easy to conduct online group therapy and support groups. There’s a lot of video conferencing technology available, like Zoom and Google Meet, and many platforms will take advantage of these existing systems. Some platforms have their own software built into the app that allows for video meetings with multiple people.
What is the Difference Between Group Therapy & Support Groups?
Group therapy is a structured treatment led by one or more healthcare providers. Support groups provide informal, open discussions facilitated by a peer or professional, allowing individuals with similar issues to connect and share.
Whether you opt for therapist-led group therapy or peer-led support, engaging regularly with an online community can put your own problems into perspective, reminding you you’re not alone.
Are Online Support Groups & Group Therapy Effective?
Absolutely, online support groups and group therapy can be effective, especially when participants are open and committed to the process. When you’re in a group with people who are going through similar experiences, you can feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can be very helpful in processing your emotions and getting support from others.
Are There Any Companies Offering Free Group Therapy?
Yes, some online therapy companies do offer free group therapy sessions. Here are a few options from our list to consider:
- Therapy Tribe has free support groups
- 7 Cups provides free group chat support
How Much Do Online Support Groups Cost?
The cost of online group therapy and support groups will vary depending on specific factors, such as the facilitators’ background, experience, and the quality of the platform. Group therapy typically costs more because it requires the group to be led by a licensed therapist in your state.
Can I Use Insurance for Group Therapy?
Not all insurance providers include group therapy in their coverage, but many do. Check with your insurance company to learn more about your plan. They can confirm whether group therapy is included in your plan and inform you about any potential limitations or requirements that might apply. Understanding these details in advance will help you navigate your treatment options more effectively.
Can I use Insurance for Support Groups?
While online support groups offer emotional and social support, they’re generally not covered by insurance. Check with your insurance company to learn more.
How Long Should I Be in Group Therapy?
Everyone’s experience in group therapy will be different. How long you stay in group therapy will depend on your circumstances and personal goals.
Should I Go to Group Therapy or Individual Therapy?
In many cases, you don’t have to choose between individual therapy or group therapy. You can participate in both if you prefer to combine one-on-one time with a therapist and group work. However, if you have to choose between individual and group therapy, consider important factors like your personal needs and goals and your comfort level in both settings.
What Are the Benefits of Online Group Therapy & Support Groups?
Benefits of online group therapy and support groups include convenience and accessibility. Online groups can be convenient because you can attend the sessions from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be especially helpful if you have a busy schedule or live in a rural area. In addition, many platforms also offer chat rooms and message boards, so members have access to 24/7 peer support.
Can I Remain Anonymous in Group Therapy?
Anonymity in group therapy depends on the service you choose. Some apps, like Circles, allow you to use nicknames, and other platforms request that all members turn their cameras on in meetings and use their real names.
How Do I Choose the Best Online Group Therapy or Support Group?
Choosing the best group therapy online or support group depends on various factors.
Things to consider before starting a program include:
- Personal Preferences: Consider what type of group setting you feel most comfortable with. Do you prefer audio-only sessions, video meetings with capped attendance, or chat-based communities? Perhaps most importantly, do you want a therapist- or peer-led experience?
- Goals: Determine initial mental health goals. What do you hope to achieve? Are you looking for support for a specific condition or challenge? Or are you seeking general mental wellness and coping strategies?
- Budget: Consider your budget. All platforms are priced differently, and while some accept insurance, others do not. Make sure the cost aligns with your financial situation.
- Schedule: Look for groups that meet at times that fit your daily schedule, routine, and commitments, ensuring you can participate on a consistent basis. This ensures you actually reap the benefits of group therapy!
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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Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, July 2). Group Teletherapy. Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-for-behavioral-health/group-teletherapy/
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American Psychological Association. (2019, October 31). Psychotherapy: Understanding Group Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy
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National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, October 1). Support Groups. Retrieved from https://archives.drugabuse.gov/publications/step-by-step-guides-to-finding-treatment-drug-use-disorders/if-you-have-problem-drugs-adults/support-groups
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Sprintis, R. (April, 2024) “Grouport Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who It’s Right For”
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/grouport-review/ -
Sprintis, R. (Sept. 2024). “Circles App Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who it’s Right For” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/circles-app-review/
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Liu, M. (Feb. 2024). “7 Cups App Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/7-cups-review/
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Church, C. (July, 2024). “Reframe App Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/reframe-app-review/
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Sprintis, R. (April, 2024). “Monument Review 2024: Cost, Pros & Cons, & Who It’s Right For” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/monument-review/
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Liu, M. (Sept. 2024). “NOCD Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/nocd-review/
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: Melissa Boudin, PsyD (No Change)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No Change)
Primary Changes: Removed 7 Cups as Best Community Support Messaging; added an Editor’s Note linking to our article about the ghost network behind 7 cups.
Author: Melissa Boudin, PsyD (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No Change)
Primary Changes: Complete rewrite of article. Fact-checked all information and reconsidered/made changes to the recommendations list based on research and product testing. Updated where necessary to improve factual accuracy and readability. Removed five companies (Reframe, Monument, NOCD, ANAD, and Mindful Care), adding them into Other Companies to consider; Added one new company (LunaJoy); rearranged placement of 7 Cups and Catalyss; Made LunaJoy Best for Women and Catalyss Best for Men.
Author: Emily Laubham, B.A. (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (New Medical Reviewer)
Primary Changes: Added six new platforms (Brave Health, Catalyss, NOCD, CCI, ANAD, and 7 Cups) and removed two platforms (Pace and Sesh). Fact-checked and edited entire article for improved readability and clarity. Added two new FAQs; removed two FAQs. New content written by Emily Laubham, B.A. and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, M.D.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Complete revamp of overall style; updated logos for all companies.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Updated the list with newer and more advanced online group therapy services. Added more details on Pros and Cons lists, Costs, and Key Features.
Author: Eric Patterson, LPC
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD
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