Working for BetterHelp: Pros, Cons, Pay, & Is It Worth It?

Working for BetterHelp Review – Key Takeaways

• BetterHelp offers therapists flexibility, a large client pool, and regular weekly payments.
• The platform simplifies administrative tasks and provides therapists with free access to therapy.
• Therapists should expect variable income, minimal clinical oversight, and potentially high client demand.
• Some therapists may feel uncomfortable with frequent client switching and no documentation requirements.
• BetterHelp faced privacy issues in the past but has tried to address them and ensure user data protection.

What Is BetterHelp?

BetterHelp is a prominent online therapy platform connecting individuals needing mental health support with licensed therapists. It offers a convenient and accessible way for people to access professional counseling services from the comfort of their own homes or any location with an internet connection.

Therapists who work with BetterHelp operate as independent contractors, typically under a 1099 tax classification. This structure provides therapists with flexibility regarding their work hours and allows them to reach a broader client base. The platform also provides a steady stream of clients, ensuring therapists have a consistent workload while offering compensation, bonuses, incentives, and other offerings that may interest therapists.

These financial benefits, combined with the convenience of online therapy, make BetterHelp an attractive option for therapists looking to expand their practice and help more individuals access mental health support. While BetterHelp offers numerous advantages, therapists must understand the platform’s specific terms, such as the 1099 contractor status, payment structure, and additional requirements or expectations.

Why Would I Want to Work for BetterHelp?

Here are a few reasons you would want to work for BetterHelp:

• Flexible Scheduling: BetterHelp allows therapists to create their schedules, allowing them to work at times that best suit their lifestyle and personal commitments
• Client Flow: The platform has a steady stream of clients, eliminating the need for therapists to invest significant time and effort in marketing and self-promotion.
• Expanded Reach: Working with BetterHelp enables you to reach a diverse and often large client base, including individuals who might need access to in-person therapy services due to geographical constraints or individuals who cannot afford therapy through their insurance.
• Financial Incentives: Beyond compensation for your session, BetterHelp offers bonuses, incentives, and opportunities for additional income, making it financially flexible for therapists
• Professional Growth: BetterHelp offers access to a comprehensive Continuing Education Unit (CEU) library with over 390 CEUs

Who is Working for BetterHelp Right For?

Working for BetterHelp caters to a diverse range of therapists, making it an attractive platform for various professional needs. Therapists seeking a caseload of less than ten clients can thrive here, benefiting from personalized care, platform flexibility, and a consistent client flow. Newly licensed therapists find a supportive environment on BetterHelp to start their careers, with a stable client base and professional development opportunities.

The platform allows therapists to provide therapy from anywhere with internet access for those seeking geographic freedom, making it ideal for those balancing work with travel or relocation. Seasoned therapists exploring online therapy can leverage BetterHelp’s broad client base and resources. At the same time, those focused on professional growth can access a comprehensive Continuing Education Unit (CEU) library to stay updated and enhance their expertise.

Those Looking for Less Than Ten Clients

Therapists who prefer managing a caseload of fewer than ten clients are well-suited for BetterHelp. This group typically includes professionals who may prefer to engage in private practice as a side job while working for an agency or to dip their toes in the private practice pond without diving in head first.

BetterHelp’s platform offers the perfect environment for them, providing flexibility in scheduling and ensuring a steady flow of clients. With this combination, therapists can maintain a manageable workload, focus on delivering quality care, and avoid the burnout often associated with marketing and the hustle of finding their own clients.

Newly Licensed Therapists

Newly licensed therapists are excellent candidates for BetterHelp’s platform, as it offers them a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience, build confidence, and establish a solid client base without the added stress of managing marketing, insurance, and creating a strict business model. BetterHelp provides an ideal environment for their professional growth, with a steady flow of clients and a supportive ecosystem that includes peer consultation and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Experienced Therapists Exploring Online Therapy

Experienced therapists new to venturing into online therapy can find advantages in joining BetterHelp. This group typically comprises seasoned professionals with extensive in-person counseling experience who want to adapt to the evolving landscape of mental health care. BetterHelp offers them access to a broad and diverse client base, providing an excellent opportunity to expand their practice into the digital realm.

The platform’s user-friendly interface, support resources, and client acquisition system can help ease the transition for these therapists, allowing them to leverage their expertise effectively while embracing the convenience and reach of online therapy. Seasoned therapists can also utilize the opportunity to experience different modalities of online therapy through telephone, video, and asynchronous counseling.

Therapists Focused on Professional Growth

Therapists seeking continuous professional growth and development can access BetterHelp’s comprehensive Continuing Education Unit (CEU) library, featuring over 390 CEUs. This extensive library gives therapists access to a wide range of educational materials, workshops, and training sessions, enabling them to enhance their skills, deepen their knowledge, and explore innovative therapeutic techniques.

Another CEU resource worth considering is GoodTherapy. Read more in our GoodTherapy review.

Who Should Look for an Alternative to Working for BetterHelp?

Therapists seeking consistency, stability, and oversight should look for an alternative to working for BetterHelp. Individuals seeking the stability of traditional full-time employment with fixed salaries and benefits and associate therapists pursuing supervision hours for licensure may need to explore alternative options as BetterHelp primarily offers independent contractor positions.

For therapists with specialized niches, those who prefer in-person therapy sessions, or those who aim to make a six-figure income without a 40-hour workweek, BetterHelp’s online therapy model, client selection process, and compensation structure may not align with their preferences and financial goals.

Those Looking for Full-Time Employment

Those seeking the stability of a traditional, full-time job with a fixed salary and benefits should consider alternative employment options, as BetterHelp primarily offers independent contractor positions rather than full-time employment.

While BetterHelp provides flexibility and other benefits, such as a consistent client flow, it does not align with the structure of a standard full-time job. Those seeking the security and benefits associated with traditional employment may find better-suited opportunities in an agency with a W-2 classified job.

Associate Therapists Seeking Supervision

It’s important for associate therapists seeking supervision hours for licensure to understand that BetterHelp may not be able to meet the specific requirements set by licensing boards, such as the BBS (Board of Behavioral Sciences). The platform primarily contracts with therapists as independent contractors, which may not align with the regulations surrounding supervision contracts for licensure.

Moreover, BetterHelp may not have the infrastructure or capacity to provide oversight required for supervisors and their supervisees as typically seen in more traditional clinical settings. As such, individuals pursuing supervision hours should explore alternative opportunities that can better fulfill their licensing requirements and provide the necessary support and structure.

Those Who Wish to Work in a Specific Niche

Therapists with specialized niches in therapy should carefully assess if BetterHelp aligns with their practice. If your specialized niche doesn’t align with the platform’s general client pool, you might encounter difficulties attracting clients seeking your unique expertise. Furthermore, it’s important to note that BetterHelp’s client assignment process may limit your ability to choose clients that align closely with your niche, potentially impacting your practice’s focus and client selection process.

The platform caters to a diverse range of clients with various mental health concerns, and while it offers opportunities to work with a broad client base, it may not be the best fit if your practice heavily relies on a specific niche. In such cases, exploring alternative avenues that allow you to target and serve a more niche-specific clientele might be a more suitable option for your practice.

If you’re trying to shape your practice to fit a particular niche, visit our list of the best therapist directories to improve your approach to marketing.

Those Who Want to Make Six Figures Without Working a 40-hour Workweek

For individuals aiming to earn a six-figure income without committing to a 40-hour workweek, it’s important to recognize that achieving this financial goal on BetterHelp may pose challenges. While the platform offers competitive compensation, reaching a six-figure income typically requires a substantial client caseload and dedication beyond a standard 40-hour workweek.

Therapists should be prepared for a higher client load and the associated time commitment to achieve this income level. Exploring alternative career paths or private practice models may offer a better chance of reaching a six-figure income without needing an extensive workweek, as BetterHelp’s compensation structure may not align with this specific financial goal.

How Much Does BetterHelp Pay Therapists?

Generally, therapists on BetterHelp earn a fee per session, which can range from $30 to $70 or more, depending on client demand and other variables. BetterHelp pays therapists a variable hourly rate that is typically based on a specialized formula of time on video or telephone sessions as well as the number of words exchanged through asynchronous messaging. There is also a separate formula for support groups and classes.

Hourly Pay Rates:

How an Hour is Calculated:

BetterHelp counts no-show appointments as 15 minutes, and eligible late cancellations as 10 minutes. There are a few limitations to BetterHelp pay worth considering such as maximum session length and a few rules about live and asynchronous messaging. You will be compensated for no more than 60 minutes worth of asynchronous messaging per week.

To learn more about BetterHelp’s pay structure in more detail, read our full BetterHelp pay breakdown.

Does Working at BetterHelp Offer Any Other Benefits?

Working at BetterHelp offers therapists other benefits that include various bonuses and incentives. Therapists in California can earn a substantial $2,000 first-month bonus by working 40 hours within the first 30 days after approval. Additionally, therapists receive a $1,000 bonus upon starting work with their first client.

For those committing to a continuous workload of 25-30 hours a week, BetterHelp provides a monthly Health Insurance Stipend ranging from $450 to $650. High-performing therapists can look forward to further bonuses and incentives, recognizing their exceptional contributions. Moreover, therapists benefit from a complimentary BetterHelp membership, granting them access to mental health services for themselves and their families, ensuring comprehensive support and care.

Costs of Working for BetterHelp to Consider

There are no additional costs directly associated with working for BetterHelp; however, therapists should be aware of the typical expenses of starting a small home-based business. These costs may include setting up a home office, investing in necessary equipment and technology, and covering ongoing operational expenses.

Additionally, therapists working as independent contractors on the platform should remember that they are responsible for their own taxes, including income tax and potentially self-employment tax, which may require budgeting and financial planning. While BetterHelp offers competitive compensation and benefits, therapists should consider these business-related expenses when evaluating the overall financial aspects of their work on the platform.

BetterHelp Payout Terms & Details

BetterHelp processes payments for therapists on a weekly basis, with a week of services considered from Monday through Sunday. Typically, therapists receive their payments 5-7 business days after the completion of their first week, and many find their payments in their accounts on Mondays. The platform’s payment system is automated, with balances updating daily based on client interactions and sessions. Therapists can track their balances and upcoming payments through BetterHelp’s online dashboard.

It’s important to note that therapists working with BetterHelp are classified as independent contractors, not employees. The platform does not withhold any tax payments, and therapists are responsible for filing and paying their own taxes. They will not receive a W-2 form but may receive a 1099 form if they earn $600 or more in a fiscal year, which is typically provided by January 31st of the following year.

What It’s Like to Work for BetterHelp – A Detailed Review

I worked with BetterHelp for approximately 9 months, and it’s important to note that personal experiences with the platform may vary based on individual preferences and professional goals. People should consider their unique needs and expectations when exploring opportunities with BetterHelp.

In my personal experience, BetterHelp provided a convenient and straightforward platform for both therapists and clients. It was easy to get started, and the referral flow of clients was consistent. The platform primarily favors a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, offering tools like homework assignments, worksheets (similar to those from TherapistAide), and journaling integrated into the system. The typical client population consists of young adults seeking therapy for its convenience and affordability. The number of clients on your caseload can vary depending on how you structure your availability, but there is no formal supervision or clinical oversight provided by BetterHelp.

However, there were certain aspects of my experience with BetterHelp that I found less enjoyable. One notable aspect is the absence of specific documentation requirements or procedures. While therapists are encouraged to track their sessions according to licensure standards, there is no follow-up from the platform to ensure adequate clinical documentation. Additionally, I encountered instances where clients with severe concerns, such as active suicidal ideation, slipped through the initial assessment and were not suitable for the platform. Another challenge was that even when informing BetterHelp of the unavailability for new clients, they sometimes scheduled additional clients without consideration, potentially leading to an overwhelming caseload.

One aspect worth noting is that clients have the ability to switch therapists at any time, which can limit the opportunity for proper closure and discharge sessions. These factors should be carefully considered by therapists when deciding whether to work with BetterHelp, as they may impact the quality of care provided and the overall experience on the platform.

How To Join BetterHelp as a Therapist

To apply for employment with BetterHelp, visit the BetterHelp therapist application page. From there, you can select your specific license and answer some initial questions to register in their system.

Once registered, you’ll be prompted to complete your therapist profile, which includes adding details about your areas of expertise, preferences, license information, background, a client-facing bio, and a profile photo. You’ll also need to set your weekly availability and update your payment information for compensation.

After completing your profile, you’ll undergo an ID check and a clinical quiz as part of the application process. These steps help BetterHelp ensure the qualifications and credentials of therapists on their platform. Overall, the application process is relatively straightforward and aims to gather essential information to match you with potential clients and ensure a smooth onboarding experience.

Requirements for Working with BetterHelp

Therapists must meet specific requirements, including licensure, state, and equipment. All therapists in the United States must provide therapy to clients in a state where they are authorized, licensed, and in good standing. They must also comply with all relevant laws, rules, and regulations, including professional ethics and responsibilities applicable to their profession. UK-based therapists are similarly required to be members of relevant professional organizations.

Equipment needed for working with BetterHelp includes:

• A computer with a working microphone and camera
• A cellphone capable of receiving SMS messages and phone calls
• Strong, fast, reliable, and secure home internet connection

BetterHelp Employee Reviews

BetterHelp employee reviews are quite mixed, with varying opinions on different aspects of the job. The categories of work-life balance, culture and values, and diversity and inclusion generally receive positive feedback. Suggesting that many therapists appreciate the flexibility, convenience, and company culture that the platform offers

However, the pay and benefits, job security, and management aspects receive some negative feedback, indicating that some therapists may find the compensation and benefits unsatisfactory, and there may be concerns about job security and the quality of management.

Details from BetterHelp job reviews found on Indeed include:

The Good

Being Your Own Boss

Users found the platform beneficial for achieving personal and professional goals, including homeownership, and appreciated the control they have over their client caseload. They also highlighted the flexibility of the platform and the supportive nature of the management team, suggesting a favorable work-life balance. The added bonus of the opportunity to access therapy services for themselves free of charge was also noted.

Very Professional Platform to Work With

Some users emphasized the professionalism and excellence of BetterHelp as a platform to work from, highlighting how BetterHelp facilitated a smooth transition back into mental health work by providing valuable resources and administrative support. They found the platform to be user-friendly and efficient, allowing them to focus more on their clients’ needs. The ability to match with appropriate clients and decline to work with those who weren’t a good fit was seen as a significant advantage.

The Bad

Frequent Compensation Changes

Some users reviews highlight a sense of frustration and disappointment with BetterHelp’s changes in compensation structure over time. Reviews mention experiencing a series of changes that have negatively impacted their income, such as the elimination of copy/paste compensation and a significant reduction in compensation for inactive follow-up. They also express frustration with communication restrictions on the forum and a decrease in client referrals.

Despite being in good standing and providing quality work, one reviewer felt that their income was gradually decreasing. While many appreciate the flexible schedule, free CEUs, and the opportunity for therapists to receive counseling, the changing pay structure and lack of a consistent flow of referrals have led to a sense of disillusionment.

Toxic work/life balance

Some user reviews highlight the challenging work/life balance experienced by some therapists on BetterHelp. While therapists appreciate the flexibility in scheduling clients around their personal lives, there is dissatisfaction with the pay, which is perceived as insufficient for earning a livable wage. The review supports the sentiment that although BetterHelp offers a flexible schedule, some therapists may find it difficult to achieve a satisfactory work/life balance due to concerns about compensation.

The reviews discussed align with my own experience while working with BetterHelp, further emphasizing the shared sentiments regarding the platform. Positive aspects, such as the flexibility in scheduling and the user-friendly nature of the platform, align with my favorable observations. Additionally, concerns about compensation, changes in pay structure, and challenges in achieving work/life balance mirror the challenges I encountered during my time on the platform. These reviews not only provide a broader perspective but also serve as validation of my own experiences and observations while working with BetterHelp.

Other Online Therapy Employers Worth Considering

As we explore the landscape of online therapy platforms beyond BetterHelp, it’s important to consider other options like Cerebral and AbleTo. These platforms offer distinct opportunities and approaches to mental health care, catering to therapists and clients with varying needs and preferences, similar to BetterHelp.

Cerebral

Cerebral hires licensed therapists, including professionals in professional counseling, marriage and family therapy, and clinical social work, who are licensed in at least one state. They emphasize comprehensive care, combining therapy services with medication management when necessary. This position is as an independent contractor, and therapists are expected to provide 15-40 hours of availability each week.¹

AbleTo

Therapists at AbleTo have the chance to work remotely from anywhere within the U.S., and they prioritize a collaborative environment with strong support systems, including coaches and clinical supervisors. They offer sign-on bonuses, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits to candidates in California or Arizona. Therapists deliver care through an 8-week evidence-based program, monitoring participant progress, providing follow-up communications, and assisting participants in accessing resources.²

Final Verdict: Is Working for BetterHelp Worth It?

BetterHelp History

BetterHelp was founded in 2013 with a mission to revolutionize the mental healthcare industry by removing traditional barriers to therapy and making it accessible to a broader audience. The platform quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to therapy, attracting millions of users seeking professional, convenient, and affordable mental health support.

Issues with BetterHelp’s Privacy Practices

BetterHelp faced a significant scandal related to its privacy practices, resulting in a $7.8 million fine imposed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The scandal centered around allegations that BetterHelp shared sensitive user data with third parties, including major companies like Meta (formerly Facebook) and Snapchat. Despite promising strict privacy protection, BetterHelp was found to have sold user data to advertisers, compromising the privacy of individuals seeking mental health support through the platform.

The fallout from this scandal had far-reaching consequences for both clients and therapists using BetterHelp. The FTC’s proposed actions required BetterHelp to refund affected users whose health data had been exposed. Additionally, the company was ordered to cease sharing personal information for ad targeting purposes and implement more robust consumer safeguards. Third-party apps that received user data from BetterHelp were also directed to delete any sensitive information disclosed to them.²