Key insights
*Estimated cost in Australian dollars based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD to 0.65 USD. Rates may fluctuate.
Getting started is easy, fill out this questionnaire and let them know you’re in Australia. Then, you’ll get matched with a professional therapist who can help you based on your needs and location. ✅
Sponsored, keeps our community free. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.
4.5 (6,513+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 48 hours.
✓ Over 33K credentialed professionals
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Subscriptions as low as 65 USD/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
Cost comparison: Online therapy in Australia vs. traditional therapy
In Australia, traditional face-to-face therapy sessions recommended by the Australian Psychological Society can cost around AUD 300 fee for a 45-60-minute consultation.
These per-visit fees can go up as high as AUD 435, according to the Guardian. 💰
- In contrast, BetterHelp’s pricing in Australia is AUD 396 to AUD 550 for a month of counseling, which includes four live sessions and you can message your therapist anytime.
- Plan costs between AUD 99 to AUD 136 per week (billed every four weeks).
- Cost of the plan depends on your location, session length (30 or 45 minutes), and the therapist you are matched with.
| BetterHelp: Australia | Traditional Therapy |
|---|---|
| AUD 99 to AUD 136 per week | AUD 300 to AUD 435 for 45-60 minute session |
| (One live session per week and ongoing messaging) | (No support in between) |
| AUD 396 to AUD 550 per month | AUD 1290 to AUD 1870 per month |
| Get 20% off on BetterHelp.com |
*Estimated cost in Australian dollars based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD to 0.65 USD. Rates may fluctuate.
Old-school therapy has its benefits, however, BetterHelp offers a budget-friendly alternative for folks who want professional counseling without emptying their wallets.
Insurance coverage
In Australia, BetterHelp isn’t included in Medicare or private health insurance coverage. That means you have to pay the full price for therapy out of pocket.
With traditional therapy in Australia, you can get a Medicare rebate when your doctor refers you to a therapist.
If you have private health insurance covering mental health, it might also give you a rebate.
But there’s a catch. Your doctor can only refer you to a registered or clinical psychologist, and they might not specialize in what you need.
- If you have a clinical disorder like depression or anxiety, Medicare will cover it and give you a rebate. But if you want counseling for non-clinical issues, Medicare might not cover it.
Also, Medicare doesn’t cover couples counseling, which can be more expensive. In such cases, BetterHelp could be a more affordable option.
Is BetterHelp accessible in Australia?
For folks living in Australia, BetterHelp is totally available. Getting help for your mental health should be easy for everyone, even if you can’t or don’t want to go see a therapist in person.
BetterHelp makes things way easier for those who find it tough to get to a therapist’s office for whatever reason.
With online sessions, you can plan your appointments when it suits you best, so therapy fits right into your daily routine.
Research shows that online therapy can be effective. Plus, with online therapy, it doesn’t matter where you are — you can chat with expert therapists from all over the world.
So, you don’t have to worry about travel costs or fitting sessions into a busy schedule, which means you have more options when it comes to finding the right help.
Sponsored, keeps our community free. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.
4.5 (6,513+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
Try BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 48 hours.
✓ Over 33K credentialed professionals
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Subscriptions as low as 65 USD/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
Why pick BetterHelp Australia?
Imagine this—a place where mental health help is just a click away, no matter your location. BetterHelp brings this idea to life with a simple-to-use interface you can reach from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Matchmaking
As we explore BetterHelp more, you’ll see that they’ve really nailed the process of matching you with the right therapist.
- All you need to do is fill out a straightforward questionnaire and let them know your goals.
Then, BetterHelp finds a therapist that’s the best fit for you and your situation. This means your therapy experience is customized just for you, which can help make things better. 💙
Respecting your zone
Judgment-free therapy is paramount in the world of mental health, and BetterHelp takes this aspect seriously.
- With certified and experienced therapists at your disposal, the platform assures professionalism throughout your interactions.
From the comfort of your home, you can explore your inner thoughts and emotions and discuss personal things with a BetterHelp professional therapist.
What is BetterHelp about?
Since its establishment in 2013, BetterHelp has honed its platform, making it a leading telehealth service.
Acquired by Teladoc, the company has focused on providing top-notch services, utilizing modern technologies while preserving the essence of human-to-human communication.
Therapists
BetterHelp takes great pride in keeping a top-notch team of therapists, making sure they’re full of the best and most caring professionals around. With a tough application process, only 15% of therapists who try to join make the cut, assuring ongoing quality improvement, checking, and feedback.
Below is the application process:
- BetterHelp uses its’ own exam and evaluation administered by a professional counselor.
- Comprehensive analysis of each therapist’s experience, references, and history.
- Thorough skills test of the platform.
- Independent verification of credentials.
In addition, BetterHelp collects continuous client feedback and deploys ongoing quality control and monitoring to ensure that top-notch counseling services are always provided.
BetterHelp’s counselors are credentialed and vetted by their state.
They must have at minimum three years and 1000 hours of therapeutic experience prior to applying.
While BetterHelp employs the largest counselor network that is highly diverse, it is vital to mention that a large portion of BetterHelp therapists are located in the United States, and you may need to schedule your sessions to adjust for the time difference between US and Australia.
How BetterHelp works
Signing up for BetterHelp’s online therapy services is an intuitive process.
After creating an account, you’ll be guided through a quick multiple-choice form, where you can choose an alias if preferred.
💡 Random Fact: BetterHelp offers a chat room access to your counselor with no limit to how many messages you send.
You can message your therapist anytime through various channels, including desktop, app, phone —truly unrivaled in the industry!
BetterHelp ensures that your satisfaction is paramount. The platform allows you to switch therapists as needed, empowering you to find the ideal match for your personal growth and healing.
For more detailed information, feel free to read our BetterHelp FAQ.
Sponsored, keeps our community free. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.
4.5 (6,513+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 48 hours.
✓ Over 33K credentialed professionals
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Subscriptions as low as 65 USD/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
BetterHelp cost breakdown in Australia
According to the Australian Psychological Society (APS), standard in-person therapy can cost around AUD 300 per session.
BetterHelp costs in Australia are more competitive than traditional therapy, each weekly session can cost USD 65 to USD 90, which is about AUD 99 to AUD 136 at the current exchange rate.
- Depending on your location and therapist assignment, BetterHelp’s monthly subscription costs range from AUD 396 to AUD 550.
- Considering the value of weekly live sessions and the ability to message your counselor anytime, BetterHelp proves to be highly competitively priced compared to traditional face-to-face therapy.
- While BetterHelp’s payment system operates on a self-pay basis and does not accept insurance, it strives to make therapy accessible to everyone.
Financial aid
Financial assistance is available for those who may face affordability challenges, ensuring that high-quality mental health treatment remains attainable for all.
During the initial onboarding signup process, there will be a screen option with instructions on applying for financial aid assistance.
As Australians battle with exploding annual healthcare costs, BetterHelp stands out as an excellent option aiming for high-quality service while delivering cost savings.
Payment options
Memberships can be paid for using Paypal, a Debit card, or a Credit card.
- A notable advantage of BetterHelp is that once you complete your initial month’s payment, you gain access to your client settings, allowing you to explore various payment options.
- You can opt for monthly or weekly payments conveniently through the app or website.
You can keep your membership active for as long as you’d like and cancel it anytime.
Sponsored, keeps our community free. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.
4.5 (6,513+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
Try BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 48 hours.
✓ Over 33K credentialed professionals
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Subscriptions as low as 65 USD/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
What are people saying about BetterHelp in Australia?
In Australia, BetterHelp has gained quite a buzz. Many people are finding it an effective platform for getting mental health assistance and counseling.
The major appeal lies in its online nature, making therapy easily accessible for those unable to attend in-person sessions for a variety of reasons.
The platform has received a good share of applause, with users attesting that online therapy via BetterHelp is just as beneficial as traditional face-to-face meetings.
They appreciate its user-friendly features and the wide array of therapists to select from, enabling them to find a match for their specific needs.
However, not all BetterHelp reviews in Australia are glowing. Some individuals express concerns about the cost, even though their costs are one of the lowest in the industry.
Despite BetterHelp’s efforts to provide a more affordable alternative to traditional therapy, certain users still find the pricing steep.
Overall, the general consensus among Australians is positive. BetterHelp online therapy platform is praised for its convenience, accessibility, and ability to facilitate connections with skilled therapists.
Drawbacks to consider
Let’s discuss some of the downsides of BetterHelp for Australian citizens.
- Different Time Zones: One significant challenge for Australians using BetterHelp is the time zone difference. Most counselors are based in the US and some in the UK, which means finding a therapist available during Australian daytime can be tough. However, you can work around this by scheduling therapy sessions in the morning since many BetterHelp counselors work outside their typical business hours. You may be able to request an Australian counselor from BetterHelp support if you prefer someone local but this is not guaranteed.
- No Psychiatric Treatment or Medications: BetterHelp lacks psychiatrists, which can be a drawback for certain mental health issues requiring collaboration between psychiatrists and psychologists for proper treatment. This means you won’t have access to psychiatrists for conditions that need psychiatric care or an official diagnosis for disability or retirement benefits. Therefore, the platform doesn’t provide medicine prescriptions since prescribing medication can be challenging due to varying country laws. In such cases, it’s best to find a traditional psychiatrist for an official diagnosis or medication and later consider BetterHelp for therapy sessions if needed.
- No Rebates: Unlike traditional therapy, BetterHelp doesn’t offer Medicare rebates or accept health insurance coverage. Certain insurance plans may reimburse you partially for online therapy, it is best to check with them to confirm.
- No Physical Interaction: BetterHelp’s therapy is entirely online, which may not be suitable for those who prefer face-to-face counseling.
Verdict: Should I use BetterHelp in Australia?
In closing, exploring BetterHelp’s virtual therapy services in Australia has been an eye-opening experience.
The digital realm of therapy presents a world of possibilities, breaking down barriers and embracing the complexities of the human mind.
Remember, the key to effective therapy lies in the connection you build with your therapist, the trust you cultivate, and the willingness to engage wholeheartedly in the therapeutic process.
Thank You for Joining Me: To my dear readers, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for accompanying me on this exploration of BetterHelp.🤩 🫶
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BetterHelp services different in Australia?
Nope, BetterHelp offers the same top-notch mental health services in Australia as they do in the United States, ensuring a consistent and accessible experience for Australian clients.
How long does treatment usually take?
Treatment duration varies depending on a bunch of cool factors, like your therapist’s experience, the specific issue you’re dealing with, how committed you are to doing the emotional work, and your unique environment.
Some folks may find support and relief within 6-8 sessions, while others dealing with more complex stuff, like PTSD, may need 10-20 sessions or even more. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, and that’s what makes it so wonderfully unique!
How does messaging with a counselor work?
It’s like having your own chat room with your therapist! BetterHelp hooks you up with an online therapy room where you can share your thoughts, concerns, and questions as freely as a bird.
Based on their availability, your therapist will swoop in with their feedback. The best part? You can message your therapist whenever you want, and you’ll even get email notifications when they respond.
Can I choose my therapist if I am in Australia?
Absolutely! BetterHelp uses a matching process that takes into account your objectives, location, preferences, and the specific issues you want to tackle in therapy.
And if you feel like your current therapist isn’t quite your cup of tea, no worries! You can request a different therapist at no extra cost. Sometimes, building that awesome therapeutic bond takes a little time, and it’s totally normal to need a few sessions to find the perfect fit.
Who is best suited for BetterHelp services in Australia?
Whether you need individual, couples, teen counseling (through TeenCounseling.com), or group therapy, BetterHelp’s services are tailored to address your specific needs and concerns.
BetterHelp provides a diverse group of counselors specializing in various concerns and needs, ranging from stress, anxiety, and relationships to parenting, depression, addiction, and more.
They even offer counseling for specific issues like sleeping problems, trauma, anger, and LGBTQIA+ matters. Additionally, they cover areas like grief, religious and spiritual concerns, and self-esteem.
BetterHelp is an overall excellent option for those seeking connection and support, especially during times like the pandemic when isolation can be overwhelming.
It’s a great fit for people who live in remote areas or have limited mobility and transportation options, as online therapy offers more flexibility in scheduling and access to a wider range of specialists who can accommodate their needs.
However, it is not the right service for those with severe mental health concerns or those needing prescription medication or management. If you are in a crisis situation or require urgent help, please use one of the hotlines located on this page.
What computer and internet connection do I need to access BetterHelp services in Australia?
All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access. Ideally, the internet connection speed is over 50MBPS. Having a webcam and microphone is helpful for video sessions and ensure you’re in a comfortable space during therapy.
Hey, I really liked your article reviewing BetterHelp. I find the whole idea pretty exciting honestly. Now I know an online format can’t perfectly replace actually sitting with someone face-to-face. But these websites seem to offer a convenient alternative that could be meaningful for some folks. I’d be really curious to try it out myself actually, maybe for extra support between regular appointments with my therapist.
I find the concept intriguing – albeit still somewhat unproven in practice. Your balanced analysis captured both the possible benefits and open questions well. The tech-enabled approach shows promise to augment traditional therapy, even if it may not fully replace the richness of human connection. Thanks for the thoughtful look at this development.
Appreciate you breaking down the online therapy landscape. The convenience factor seems appealing. Your analysis provided helpful early perspective.
Cheers!
-Charlotte