Which is Right For You? — Talkspace

Comparing Talkspace vs BetterHelp

When choosing between online therapy platforms, it’s essential to compare the unique features and services offered by each. By understanding the key differences, you can make a more informed decision about whether Talkspace or BetterHelp best aligns with your needs.

Consider the following factors as you evaluate your options:

• Services offered: What types of therapy or counseling are available?
• Provider qualifications: What are the qualifications and expertise of the mental health providers?
• Medication management: Does the platform offer support for medication management, and if so, how is it handled?
• Cost: How do the pricing structures compare, and what’s included in the cost?
• Insurance coverage: Is the platform covered by your insurance, and how does that affect your out-of-pocket costs?
• Communication methods: What communication methods are available (text, video, or voice calls)?
• Therapist selection: How easy is it to find and match with a therapist suited to your needs?
• Resources: Are there extra resources, such as self-help tools or content offered?

Services offered

Talkspace provides a range of services, including:

• Individual therapy
• Couples therapy
• Teen counseling
• Psychiatry & medication management
• Employer mental health programs

BetterHelp offers:

Provider qualifications

Medication management

Talkspace provides online psychiatric evaluations and medication management services, which is a key advantage over BetterHelp if you’re seeking psychiatric services or medication support alongside therapy. BetterHelp, on the other hand, does not offer medication management.

Cost

The out-of-pocket costs of therapy for BetterHelp vs Talkspace (without insurance coverage) are as follows:

Talkspace also accepts major insurance providers, which can significantly lower out-of-pocket costs—most insured members have a $0 copay. Additionally, Talkspace offers savings of up to 10-20% for quarterly or biannual payments.

Insurance coverage

Insurance coverage for online therapy is a key difference between the two platforms. Talkspace partners with several major insurance providers, including Aetna, Cigna, Optum, TRICARE, and Medicare, which can make therapy more affordable for those with coverage. 

Communication methods

Talkspace and BetterHelp offer similar flexibility when it comes to connecting with your therapist. Both platforms allow individuals to communicate through private messaging, live chat, audio calls, and video sessions. The range of options lets you choose the format that fits your comfort level and schedule.

Therapist selection

Both Talkspace and BetterHelp help you find a specific therapist that aligns with your needs. Talkspace offers a detailed provider directory, letting you search by therapist specialty, location, and insurance coverage. 

You can sign up with a therapist one of two ways. The first way is once you’re ready to begin, Talkspace uses a proprietary matching algorithm to connect you with a suitable provider within about 48 hours. You may have the option to request a specific therapist in this process. It’s not always guaranteed, though the platform strives to honor these requests. The second way to find a Talkspace therapist is to search for a specific therapist by state, concern, or insurance coverage. Once you find a therapist you’re interested in working with that has availability, you can then book a session with them directly through the Talkspace sign up process. 

BetterHelp also has a directory, but it only allows users to search based on location. The platform also uses an algorithm to match users with therapists based on preferences and needs.

If your therapist is not a good fit, Talkspace and BetterHelp both allow you to switch therapists if needed. 

Resources

Choosing Between Talkspace vs BetterHelp

By exploring the unique features and differences between Talkspace and BetterHelp, you can find the platform that best aligns with your needs, preferences, and goals. To help make your decision easier, explore reviews and key differentiators to understand which platform might be more effective for you.

Talkspace might be for you if you want

• Therapy covered by insurance
• Access to psychiatrists for medication management
• Flexibility in therapy modalities

BetterHelp might be for you if you want

• A flat-rate pricing model
• A wider selection of therapist options upfront

Making the Right Choice for You

Sources:

1. Lin T, Heckman TG, Anderson T. The efficacy of synchronous teletherapy versus in-person therapy: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Clinical Psychology Science and Practice. 2021;29(2):167-178. doi:10.1037/cps0000056. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2022-17335-001. Accessed March 23, 2025.
2. Talkspace. Online therapy with a licensed therapist. https://www.talkspace.com/online-therapy/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
3. ‌Talkspace. Online therapy covered by insurance. https://www.talkspace.com/coverage/insurance. Accessed May 14, 2025.
4. Talkspace. Talkspace services + out-of-pocket pricing. https://help.talkspace.com/hc/en-us/articles/360041531131-Talkspace-Services-Out-of-Pocket-Pricing. Accessed May 14, 2025.
5. Talkspace. Change provider. https://help.talkspace.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000287406-Change-Provider. Accessed May 14, 2025.
6. Talkspace. Match with a provider. https://help.talkspace.com/hc/en-us/articles/24477925465371-Match-with-a-Provider. Accessed May 14, 2025.
7. BetterHelp. Online therapy – Licensed therapist mental health counseling services. https://www.betterhelp.com/online-therapy/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
8. BetterHelp. Frequently asked questions. https://www.betterhelp.com/faq/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
9. BetterHelp. How much does BetterHelp online therapy cost? https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/how-much-does-betterhelp-cost/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
10. BetterHelp. About us. https://www.betterhelp.com/about/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
11. BetterHelp Business. https://www.betterhelporg.com/. Accessed May 14, 2025.
12. Teen Counseling. https://www.teencounseling.com/get-started/?teen_counseling=from_betterhelp. Accessed May 14, 2025.
13. Regain. https://www.regain.us/get-started/?couples_counseling=from_betterhelp. Accessed May 14, 2025.