Ria Health is an online medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for alcohol use disorder (AUD), earning 4.5 out of 5 stars in our independent review. It offers personalized care plans, access to recovery coaches, and is available in all 50 states. While it costs anywhere from $175 – $449 monthly, many major insurance plans are accepted, and your overall cost may be lower.
Editor's Note
We regularly review and update our content to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information. In this round of updates, little has changed in the virtual addiction treatment space; pricing, features, and availability remain largely the same. Ria Health remains our top recommendation for best MAT for alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Ria Health At a Glance
Cost: $175 – $449 monthly
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Pros & Cons of Ria Health
Pros - Available in all 50 states
- Includes treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Offers recovery coaching from licensed mental health professionals
- Accepts Medicare Advantage Plan in some states
- Customizable treatment plans to reduce or quit alcohol use
- Includes a Bluetooth breathalyzer
Cons - Only treats alcohol use disorder
- Not available for patients under 18
Preview Ria Health
Ria Health provides medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), offering personalized care plans and recovery counseling with licensed mental health professionals. Services are available in all 50 states and can be accessed through the app or any personal device. The program costs $175 – $449 monthly, and many major insurance plans are accepted, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that out-of-pocket costs can be high without insurance, especially due to upfront fees.
Medication management is the cornerstone of Ria Health’s program. Their medical team can also treat co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Providers prescribe FDA-approved medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce alcohol cravings. Each patient receives a Bluetooth breathalyzer, along with a guided setup video, to track progress, with both included in the treatment cost.
Ria Health may not be the right fit if you’re experiencing severe alcohol dependence or need inpatient-level support. It also may not be ideal for those looking to avoid medication or needing help for multiple substance addictions. For individuals seeking treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), Ophelia Health stands out as a top choice. Eleanor Health is another strong option, particularly for those managing both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions, thanks to its integrated focus on dual diagnosis care. For even more options, read our guide on the best online addiction treatment options.
Detailed Review of Ria Health
Ria Health is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program designed to help individuals reduce or quit drinking. Each care plan is tailored to the patient’s personal goals and includes one-on-one recovery coaching. Available in all 50 states, Ria Health accepts many major insurance plans, with out-of-pocket costs starting at $175 – $449 monthly. It should be noted that without insurance, there are some extensive upfront fees.
Review our scoring criteria for online medication-assisted treatment programs here.
Review our complete editorial policies here.
Getting Started
You can get started with Ria Health by visiting their website or downloading the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. After signing up and entering your insurance or payment information, your first step is a call with an enrollment counselor. They’ll explain how the program works and guide you through the onboarding process. Next, you’ll schedule your initial appointment with a Ria Health medical provider to discuss your relationship with alcohol, personal goals, and whether medication-assisted treatment is the right approach for you.
With Ria Health, you have the flexibility to either cut back on drinking or stop altogether, whichever path feels right for you. Your medical provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your goals and can also address any co-occurring mental health conditions. If medication-assisted treatment is appropriate, they’ll send a prescription to your local pharmacy.
A licensed recovery coach with experience in alcohol use treatment will also be assigned to support you throughout the program. Ria offers weekly one-on-one coaching sessions to help you stay on track and work toward your goals. Coaches use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, tailored specifically for substance use. You’ll also have access to regular online peer support groups for added community and accountability.
Every new Ria Health member receives a handheld Bluetooth breathalyzer, which is included in the cost of care, along with an instructional video. You’ll be encouraged to use it daily to track your blood alcohol content (BAC), which can help reinforce your goals and give your care team a clear picture of your progress.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Ria Health’s core offering is its medication-assisted treatment program. If you’re looking for a non-clinical approach to cutting back or quitting alcohol, mindful drinking apps like Sunnyside or Reframe may be a better fit. But if you’re open to exploring medication as part of your recovery, Ria Health is a strong, well-rounded option. Their medical providers prescribe a variety of FDA-approved medications to help decrease withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings, which include:
- Naltrexone
- Disulfiram/Antabuse
- Acamprosate
- Gabapentin
- Baclofen
- Topiramate
Ria Health’s medical team can also prescribe medications to support people with co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. One option they offer is The Sinclair Method (TSM), a treatment approach developed in Finland by Dr. John David Sinclair. TSM uses medication to reduce alcohol cravings by blocking the brain’s reward response when drinking.3 It’s gained popularity across Europe and is becoming more widely used in the U.S. Studies have shown that when followed correctly, TSM has a success rate of about 78%.4
Recovery Coaches
While medication can be an effective tool, Ria Health recognizes that lasting change often requires more than just a prescription. That’s why they combine TSM with one-on-one recovery coaching. It helps patients build healthier habits and shift their relationship with alcohol over time.
Ria Health’s recovery coaches are licensed mental health professionals with extensive experience in addiction treatment. You’ll meet with your coach weekly to review your progress, address challenges, and strategize around triggers and cravings. In addition to one-on-one support, they lead group sessions covering a range of recovery topics. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, they help you modify your drinking habits or quit altogether.
Progress Tracking
Ria Health recommends that patients remain in the program for at least one year, and they’ve built a structured system to track progress throughout that time. Consistent engagement with your medical provider and recovery coach helps keep you on track, while several key metrics are monitored along the way, including:
- Daily BAC readings using the provided Bluetooth breathalyzer
- Mental health screenings, such as the GAD-7 for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and other periodic assessments
- Alcohol risk assessments to evaluate changes in behavior and use
- Biomarkers from lab panels, including reductions in elevated liver enzymes5
While a 12-month program is encouraged, treatment length varies, some people stay longer, while others may feel they’ve met their goals sooner. Tracking these metrics closely allows your care team to evaluate what’s working, make informed adjustments, and support you more effectively throughout your recovery.
Ria Health Cost
Ria Health’s pricing varies depending on your insurance coverage and chosen plan, with out-of-pocket costs typically ranging from $175 to $449 per month. Most major insurance plans are accepted, which may significantly reduce your overall expenses. If you’re uninsured, expect higher initial costs before monthly billing begins.
Ria Health’s membership plans include access to a comprehensive, app-based treatment program for alcohol use disorder.
Here’s what’s included:
- Medical care from licensed doctors and nurses via smartphone
- Prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy (medication cost not included)
- A complimentary Bluetooth breathalyzer (valued at $100)
- A personalized treatment plan based on your individual goals
- Weekly one-on-one recovery coaching sessions
- 24/7 access to a dedicated care team
- Online group support sessions
- An app to track your progress
- Eligibility for HSA reimbursement on out-of-pocket costs
Ria Health offers four membership plans to help meet a variety of budgets and treatment preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
- Insurance Plan:
- May be covered as an in-network benefit, depending on your provider
- Best option for those with major insurance plans
- Price varies by insurance and treatment plan
- Determined Plan:
- Pay $3,800 upfront for the first year
- $175 monthly thereafter
- Action Plan:
- $2,000 for the first month
- $175 monthly thereafter
- Annual Tiered Plan:
- No sign-up fee
- $399 monthly for the first 3 months, then drops to $299 monthly
Medication Cost
The cost of medication depends on your treatment plan, including factors like dosage, location, and how long you remain on it. According to a Ria Health representative, all prescribed medications are generic and generally considered affordable. In most cases, they’re also covered by health insurance plans.
Who Does Ria Health Serve?
Ria Health is currently only available in the United States and does not offer services internationally. It’s a great option for those looking for an alternative to traditional recovery approaches, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or inpatient rehab. You might find Ria Health especially helpful if you’re seeking the convenience of online medication-assisted treatment or want personalized, one-on-one support along the way.
User Reviews for Ria Health
Ria Health currently holds a 3.6-star rating from 27 reviews on the Apple App Store and a 3.2-star rating from 23 reviews on the Google Play Store. While the number of reviews is still relatively limited, a few common themes stand out. Some users said the program helped them become more aware of their relationship with alcohol and found the tracking tools especially helpful when trying to cut back. However, several reviewers also mentioned technical issues with the app’s functionality.
Reviews from Apple App Store | 3.6 out of 5 stars | 27 reviews
Positive reviews highlight appreciation for the staff and medical team, as well as the inclusion of the Bluetooth breathalyzer, which users say helps increase awareness of their alcohol intake. Many also value having access to a doctor who can prescribe medication to manage cravings, along with a recovery coach who supports them in identifying triggers.
Negative reviews mention technical difficulties, particularly with iPhone models like the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro Max. Some users report challenges logging into appointments, difficulty navigating the app, and frustration with scheduling. Other concerns include the program’s cost and occasional app glitches.
Reviews from Google Play Store | 3.2 out of 5 stars | 23 reviews
Positive reviews on the Google Play Store are limited and generally do not specify which features users appreciated.
Negative reviews point to technical issues on certain devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S20+ and Android 11. Some users report that the app repeatedly loads without opening, while one reviewer expressed frustration with the cancellation process.
Alternatives & Competitors
Ria Health is a strong option for treating alcohol use disorder (AUD), but it may not be the best fit for those with co-occurring mental health conditions or multiple substance addictions. Below are additional programs you can explore that may better meet those needs. To explore even more options, read our full guide on the best virtual addiction treatment options.
Best for Multi-Substance Treatment - Workit Health
Price: $250 to $300 monthly
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Workit Health is a virtual care platform that offers medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for a variety of substance use disorders, not just alcohol, like Ria Health. It also addresses common co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and certain chronic illnesses. Unlike Ria, Workit includes at-home drug testing and a library of self-paced therapeutic courses tailored to each patient’s goals. Insurance is accepted, including many major plans and Medicare.
Workit’s program also includes access to a large library of interactive therapeutic courses, which focus on skills like managing cravings, practicing mindfulness, and applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies. These courses are tailored to individual goals and are integrated into each person’s care plan.
To learn more, read our full Workit Health review.
Pros & Cons
Pros - “Whole-person” care model combining MAT and therapy
- Treats co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, HIV, or Hepatitis C
- Includes hundreds of online therapy and education courses
Cons - Services limited to select states
- No one-on-one therapy sessions
- Not available for individuals under 18
Best for Opioid Use Disorder - Ophelia Health
Price: $195.00 a month
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Ophelia Health and Ria Health both offer virtual medication-assisted treatment (MAT), but they focus on different types of substance use disorders. Ophelia is specifically designed for individuals managing opioid use disorder, while Ria Health centers its care on alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Both platforms provide fully remote treatment, making support more accessible for individuals who may not have nearby in-person resources. Ophelia’s services are available in select states and cost $195 per month, not including medication. Ria Health, on the other hand, is available nationwide with a monthly rate of $175 – $449, which includes tools like a Bluetooth breathalyzer to monitor progress.
Each program includes support for co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or insomnia. Ria Health incorporates licensed mental health professionals into care, offering therapy and coaching alongside medication management. Ophelia’s care model emphasizes coordination and support through a dedicated care team, helping patients navigate appointments, prescriptions, and insurance.
To learn more, read our full Ophelia Health review.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Fast access to MAT for opioid use disorder
- Accepts most major insurance providers
- Offers treatment for co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, and insomnia
- 24/7 virtual support from triage nurses for urgent care needs
Cons - Services only available in select states
- Does not offer therapy or counseling
- Limited to opioid addiction
- Customer support may be difficult to reach before enrollment
Best for Dual-Diagnosis - Eleanor Health
Price: $249 per month
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Eleanor Health and Ria Health both offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT), but they serve slightly different needs. Ria Health is designed specifically for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and offers a tech-forward, fully virtual experience, available in all 50 states. Eleanor Health, on the other hand, is ideal for individuals managing both substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. It provides a more integrated model, combining MAT, therapy, and recovery coaching through both virtual and in-person options, though availability is currently limited to seven states.
Ria Health offers plans starting from $175 – $449 monthly, with many major insurance plans accepted. Eleanor Health’s pricing depends on location, coverage, and the level of care needed. Both programs include access to a care team, but Eleanor’s clinical depth and focus on dual-diagnosis treatment make it a stronger fit for those with more complex recovery needs. If you’re focused solely on alcohol and want convenience and structure, Ria may be a better match.
To learn more, read our full Eleanor Health review.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Prescribes a range of medications to support recovery from multiple types of addiction
- Available online and in-person in certain states
- Provides therapy and psychiatric care for co-occurring mental health conditions
- Focuses on whole-person care, not just symptom management
Cons - Services are only offered in select states
- No flat-rate or subscription-style pricing available
- Not currently available to individuals under 18
Best for Peer Support - Monument
Price: $14.99 to $249+ monthly
Insurance Accepted? Yes
Monument and Ria Health share several similarities. Both focus on treating alcohol use disorder (AUD) and offer personalized treatment plans that include medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and access to therapy. Members can choose whether they want to cut back on drinking or quit entirely. While both programs are fully virtual, Ria Health provides an app for easier access, whereas Monument’s services are only available through its web-based patient portal.
The biggest differences between the two come down to availability, insurance, and pricing. Ria Health is available in all 50 states, accepts many major insurance plans, and offers a flat self-pay option of $449 per month. Monument’s MAT services are available only in select states, but they offer more flexibility with pricing. Their plans range from $9.99 per month for basic physician care (no therapy included) to $249 per month for their full-service package, which includes therapy and all available support.
If you’re looking for a structured, full-service program and prefer a dedicated app, Ria Health may be a better fit. But if you want more flexibility or are just beginning to explore support for drinking less, Monument’s customizable plans may better align with your goals.
To learn more, read our full Monument Health review.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Includes private sessions with licensed therapists
- Supports mental health conditions like anxiety and depression alongside AUD treatment
- Care plans are flexible—whether you want to cut back or quit entirely
- Offers access to virtual peer support meetings
Cons - Focuses solely on alcohol use disorder
- Services are only offered in certain states
- Not available to individuals under 18
- Accepts Medicare, but not Medicaid at this time
- Doesn’t provide full dual-diagnosis treatment for complex mental health needs
Why You Can Trust My Review
“In addition to my hands-on experience with Ria Health, I’ve tested and reviewed several other leading online MAT programs. This broader perspective allows me to compare Ria’s offerings, including flexibility, clinical support, and cost, to similar services. My recommendation is based on both personal use and professional experience, giving you a trusted, well-rounded review of what Ria Health can offer.
My background working directly with clients in recovery gave me added insight into how these services support real-world sobriety goals. I evaluated how the program functions for both individuals looking to cut back and those aiming to quit entirely.”
History & News
Year Founded: 2016
Founders: Dr. John Mendelson and David Deacon
Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
Publicly Traded? No, Ria Health is a private company
Ria Health was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. During our review, we had the opportunity to speak with Tom Nix, Ria Health’s CEO, about the company’s mission, evolution, and future direction. With a background in technology services that support communication and engagement within large healthcare systems, Nix shared, “I was really looking for something that was more mission-oriented and impactful.” At the time, his brother Bob Nix (CTO) and Dr. John Mendelson (CMO) were developing Ria Health’s program, and brought him on board—first as an investor, and eventually as CEO.
Nix explained that while traditional recovery options like AA or inpatient rehab work for some people, they don’t resonate with everyone. He pointed to evolving research around alcohol use disorder (AUD), noting that older models may not meet the needs of today’s population. “So, imagine if you’re struggling with social anxiety and your main mechanism for help is a church basement with a bunch of strangers—maybe that doesn’t fit for you,” he said. “There’s a lot of opportunity to approach treatment with a ‘one-size-doesn’t-fit-all’ mindset. What we’ve done is combine the best evidence-based practices from decades of research—pairing medication-assisted treatment with psychosocial support.”
Looking ahead, Nix shared that Ria Health is preparing to expand into the employer space by developing alcohol education programs for workplace training. “We’re creating new programs that focus on educating people about alcohol use, risk factors, modern treatment options, and how to communicate in a non-stigmatizing way with a friend or co-worker who may be struggling.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Credentials Do Ria Health Providers Hold?
Ria Health’s medical providers consist of medical doctors, psychiatrists, and nurse practitioners with strong backgrounds in addiction treatment.
How Am I Matched with My Care Team?
You’ll be matched with a medical provider and a recovery coach after you complete the enrollment process. Matches are based on patient preferences and location.
Can I Switch to a Different Clinician or Recovery Coach During My Treatment?
Yes, Ria Health wants to ensure that all patients have the best chance at success, which includes changing their care team members upon request.
What Medications Are Available with Ria Health?
Ria Health will prescribe naltrexone, disulfiram/antabuse, acamprosate, gabapentin, baclofen, and topiramate. All of these are FDA-approved medications used to treat alcohol use disorder.
How Do I Get My Prescription?
If medication-assisted treatment is right for you, a prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy or a reputable online pharmacy of your preference.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Yes, you can use your FSA or HSA for mental health treatment with Ria Health.
How Do I Unenroll from Ria Health?
Your enrollment coordinator or your recovery coach can help you unenroll from Ria Health’s program.
Does Ria Health Offer Refunds?
Yes, if you have pre-paid for your program and you feel dissatisfied or if you feel you’ve completed the program ahead of schedule, you can contact a customer service representative for a refund.
Is Ria Health HIPAA Compliant?
Yes, Ria Health is HIPAA-compliant. To learn more, you can check out their Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
How Long Has Ria Health Been in Business?
Ria Health has been in business since 2016.
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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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: Chelsey Church, M.S. (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Fact-checked and edited entire article for improved readability and clarity, and reviewed recent Apple and Google reviews to update user ratings. Updated Alternatives & Competitors Section (Companies Added: Ophelia Health and Eleanor Health). Updated screenshots throughout the entire article.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Added article summary block, reformatted star rating breakdown, added “Why You Can Trust My Review” section.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD
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