BetterHelp Free Trial: A CAUTIONARY TALE [2024]

Written By

Erica Barnes

Fact Checked

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Hey there! If you’re considering online therapy options like BetterHelp, you might be wondering if they offer a free trial.

After doing some research, I can provide you with some information to help you make an informed decision.

Now, let’s address the question at hand: does BetterHelp have a free trial? The answer is no, they don’t offer a traditional free trial where you can test the service for a set period without paying.

The internet rumors that BetterHelp offers free trials as of the date of this publication are false. Instead, they operate using a subscription model, where users pay a regular fee to access the platform and connect with licensed mental health professionals.

Most importantly! Readers of Therapy Helpers can take advantage of a special promotion, which grants them a 20% discount (see below) on their BetterHelp subscription.

Ad, keeps our community free. The perspectives presented on this website are genuinely our own and we do not accept money for reviews.

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Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.

✓ Over 35K licensed professionals

✓ Financial aid available

✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks

✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime

20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers

Debunking the BetterHelp Free Trial Rumor

A person confidently disproving the BetterHelp Free Trial rumor with evidence and a calm demeanor

Have you heard the buzz about BetterHelp offering a free 7-day trial? Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s just a myth.

Yep, you read that right – no free trial, despite what some sneaky websites might claim.

Here’s the deal: BetterHelp is a top-notch online counseling service, and they’re in the business of providing quality mental health support.

That means they’ve got a team of licensed, experienced professionals who deserve to be paid fairly for their expertise.

So, while the idea of a free trial might sound tempting, it’s important to remember that investing in your mental health is always worth it.

BetterHelp’s goal is to make professional counseling accessible and affordable for everyone, without compromising on quality.

Bottom line? Don’t fall for the free trial myth. If a website promises a free month or a 7-day freebie, approach with caution.

Instead, trust that BetterHelp is here to provide the support you need, whenever you need it – no gimmicks, just genuine care.



Why There Are No Free Trials?

A group of people look disappointed while staring at a sign that reads "No free trials available." Frustration is evident on their faces as they walk away

BetterHelp provides some financial assistance options for those who may find the subscription cost-prohibitive.

They offer discounts and financial aid to eligible individuals, helping to make therapy more accessible to a wider range of people.

Reasons that BetterHelp doesn’t provide a free trial:

  • BetterHelp is focused on providing financial aid and making online therapy more affordable for those who qualify.
  • Investing in mental health treatment requires commitment. Free trials often don’t facilitate the type of long-term therapy commitment that leads to positive change.
  • BetterHelp already subsidizes pricing and offers customized plans to ensure online counseling is accessible. Plans start at just $65 per week (one of the lowest among competitors).
  • BetterHelp’s Social Impact Program aims to increase access to mental health services for underserved groups and individuals facing challenges. Through this program, BetterHelp provides free or subsidized counseling to those who cannot afford the full cost. Social Impact Program hopes to reach people who are often excluded from traditional mental health treatment.

How to Save on BetterHelp & Apply For Financial Aid

A person sits at a desk, filling out financial aid forms while a computer screen displays "How to Save on BetterHelp" in bold letters

A reduced rate of 20% is offered on your first month of therapy using our discount

Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Visit BetterHelp and create an account by entering your name, email, and password.
  2. Fill out the questionnaire (roughly 3 minutes) detailing your mental health needs, goals, objectives, availability, counselor gender preference, etc. This helps match you to the best therapist for you and your location.
  3. Some of the questions that may pop up are: “What does mental health mean to you?” and “How are you feeling?” 
  4. Pick the pricing plan that aligns with your budget and therapy goals. Plans can be canceled anytime without any penalty.
  5. During sign-up, the screen will allow you to apply for financial aid.
  6. Within 48 hours, you’ll be matched with a licensed therapist based on your profile, location, needs, and preferences.
  7. Review counselor profiles and credentials before messaging to ensure a good fit. You can change counselors anytime at no extra cost.
  8. Once signed up, use the online dashboard to message your counselor anytime, schedule video sessions, join optional group classes, and access resources.

BetterHelp Pricing Overview

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While free trials are not offered, BetterHelp provides affordable subscription-based pricing plans to fit different budgets and needs:

  • Weekly Cost – For $65-100 per week (billed every four weeks), you get messaging, group classes, and weekly live sessions (30 or 45 minutes). 
  • Monthly Plan – At $260-400 monthly, you get four live sessions, group classes, in-app journal, and you can message your therapist anytime. Plans are well-suited for those who like that extra support in between weekly live sessions.
FeatureWeekly CostMonthly Billing (Every 4 Weeks)
Cost$65-$100 per week (billed every 4 weeks)$260-$400 per month
Live sessionsWeekly4 per month
MessagingYesYes
Group ClassesYesYes

You can view full BetterHelp cost details here and sign up for the pricing plan that fits your budget on BetterHelp’s website.

Bottom Line

The protagonist stands alone, gazing into the distance, with a look of determination on their face

While BetterHelp no longer offers free trials, their subsidized pricing, financial aid, and a massive network of experienced licensed therapists provide accessible online counseling to those in need. 

  • When picking your subscription plan, consider the therapy goals and length of therapy sessions you would prefer (30 vs 45 minutes).
  • Recent surveys show that nearly 40% of U.S. adults have experienced depression symptoms since the pandemic began. 
  • BetterHelp has seen a substantial 22% increase in users in 2023 over the previous year as online counseling demand grows.

Investing in mental health is so important, and online counseling makes obtaining help convenient.

Looking for more mental health tips? Make sure to follow our Mental Health Board on Pinterest!

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About the author

Erica Barnes

Erica Barnes

I’m an African American woman living in New York, with a Bachelor's degree in Communication. I’m passionate about researching mental health topics, spirituality, and breaking down stigma in my community. I’ve dedicated my life to shedding light on important issues surrounding mental health and working towards creating a more understanding and compassionate society. As a researcher at Therapy Helpers, I’m here to use my skills to educate and inspire others through insightful articles. Thank you for being here!Social

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