BetterHelp New Zealand: 2024 Cost & Full Review

Mental health issues affect one in five New Zealand adults annually. However, stigma and limited treatment options may prevent many Kiwis from getting the help they need. 

Online therapy promises a more accessible and affordable mental health support for New Zealanders.

But does BetterHelp, one of the most popular options, live up to its claims?

What is BetterHelp and How Does it Work?

Founded in 2013 in the US, BetterHelp has expanded worldwide as an online therapy platform.

Over 35,000 credentialed therapists across a wide spectrum of specializations offer counseling by video, phone, chat, and messaging.

BetterHelp uses one of the most sophisticated matching algorithms to pair clients with the most suitable therapists.

Users complete a questionnaire about their mental health history, needs, communication preferences, and other factors. The platform will match you to the ideal therapist for you.

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

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

BetterHelp

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

✓ Over 35K 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

Take Assessment

Cost Comparison: In-Person Vs Online Therapy in NZ

Traditional in-person therapy sessions can cost up to NZD 250 per 50-minute appointment, frequently making them more expensive than using BetterHelp’s online therapy services. 

BetterHelp.com offers more affordable pricing, starting at USD 65 (NZD 104) per week or USD 260 (NZD 419) per month.

Their plans include weekly 30-45 minute live video sessions and messaging with your therapist for ongoing support in between (responses often within 24 hours). 

Unlike traditional therapy, you also have the flexibility to easily switch counselors if you are unhappy with your initial match.

Overall, BetterHelp provides a more cost-effective way to access therapy remotely, along with options not typically available with in-person counseling.

Key Features of BetterHelp NZ

To dismantle common barriers to mental healthcare, BetterHelp offers a comprehensive suite of features designed for convenience, quality, and success:

• Weekly live sessions + messaging in between
• Discreet video, phone, chat, and messaging therapy sessions
• Asynchronous messaging for convenient scheduling
• Matching algorithm for tailored therapist recommendations
• Group sessions included in all plans 
• Financial aid based on income

BetterHelp aims to overcome common barriers to mental healthcare like cost, accessibility, and stigma through online delivery.

Why Consider BetterHelp for Mental Health Support in NZ

Convenient and Accessible Care

Rather than struggling through lengthy waitlists or traveling to appointments, BetterHelp offers therapy on-demand nationwide.

Clients connect through whichever digital medium works best for them on a flexible schedule.

By eliminating common barriers, BetterHelp enables more Kiwis to access the mental health support they need.

I found BetterHelp to be fantastic. Cheaper than I would pay to see someone in NZ and much more accessible. Easy to swap practitioners if you don’t find the right fit. Had EMDR which I was unable to find anyone accepting new patients for in NZ. 3 sessions of EMDR made more difference to past trauma that I’ve been able to achieve in a lifetime..

lodar99., Reddit user

Tailored, Quality Care

With over 35,000 credentialed professional therapists ready to serve NZ users, BetterHelp offers care tailored to each client’s needs. 

Experts are available to treat anything from addiction and trauma to everyday stress.

Matching algorithms propose suitable therapists to choose from based on location, preferences, mental health history, background, schedule, and more unique factors.

Clients aren’t locked in either – they can switch counselors easily if needed.

Transparent Pricing

BetterHelp publishes its pricing directly on its website with no hidden fees.

Plans range from $65 to $100 USD per week (billed every four weeks), including messaging support in between sessions. 

Need-based financial assistance lowers costs further for qualifying applicants.

Upfront pricing transparency is rare in healthcare, BetterHelp lets Kiwis estimate expected costs accurately as they make decisions about online therapy.

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

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

Try BetterHelp

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

✓ Over 35K 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

Take Assessment

What to Consider Before Using BetterHelp NZ

While online therapy through BetterHelp offers significant advantages, some limitations exist compared to traditional in-office counseling:

Potential for Time Zone Mismatches

Connecting with an NZ-based therapist on BetterHelp is not currently possible as they are all based in the US and the UK, so consider your time zones when scheduling sessions.

Asynchronous messaging helps bridge any time zone gaps if clients match with international counselors.

Tech Requirements for Virtual Sessions

Clients need high-speed broadband internet access and devices with working webcams/microphones. BetterHelp does provide technical support.

For those lacking suitable technology, in-person counseling may work better.

Not In-Person

Video sessions allow visual connection but prohibit the in-office connection that is possible with some in-person therapies.

Clients seeking physical therapy may prefer finding local specialists.

Nuances to Building Trust Digitally

Without visual cues offered by body language, building rapport and trust online can be trickier.

Clients must communicate their needs explicitly and monitor progress over time.

Switching counselors is hassle-free if the match isn’t optimal.

Alternatives to BetterHelp Available in NZ

1. Online-therapy.com – Plans range USD 50 (NZD 79) to USD 90 (NZD 142) weekly, billed every four weeks. Compared to BetterHelp, Online-therapy.com offers a less expensive therapy plan. Currently 20% off.
2. Talkspace – Plans range USD 69 (NZD 109) to USD 129 (NZD 204) weekly, billed every four weeks. Compared to BetterHelp, Talkspace is a more expensive option for New Zealanders. The main difference is that Talkspace offers psychiatry and medication management services for an extra fee.

Visit our comprehensive review of BetterHelp alternatives.

Local Crisis Support Resources

• Need to talk to someone? Free calls or text 1737 at any time for support from an experienced counselor.
• Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).
• Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.
• Samaritans – 0800 726 666
• Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).
• Healthline – 0800 611 116

Get Started with BetterHelp for Online Counseling

As online therapy grows more popular worldwide, BetterHelp leads the industry in providing accessible, convenient mental healthcare.

While some challenges like time zones and technology exist, BetterHelp makes professional counseling achievable for more Kiwis struggling with their mental health.

Visit BetterHelp’s website to learn more, compare plans and pricing, read reviews from local users, view therapist listings, and start your counseling journey today.

Their matching quiz considers your unique preferences, issues, and communication style to find the right expert counselor for you.

Don’t let stigma or barriers prevent you from seeking support – online therapy through BetterHelp allows Kiwis nationwide to access the mental health services they deserve at reasonable rates. 

You deserve to feel empowered in reaching your goals while addressing sources of stress, anxiety, sadness, trauma, and other mental health struggles.

FAQs

Does BetterHelp cater specifically to Kiwis?

Absolutely. BetterHelp maintains an exceptionally diverse counselor network.

Their matching process connects Kiwis with US & UK based providers possessing expertise supporting common issues faced in Aotearoa spanning relationships, rural matters, alcohol struggles, and more.

Users can expect a tailored experience from empathetic counselors embracing Kiwi diversity.

Can I get medications?

BetterHelp doesn’t prescribe or manage medications/prescriptions.

Is couples counseling available on BetterHelp?

BetterHelp has specialized relationship counselors skilled in common issues faced by Kiwi couples.

I live rurally – will NZ remote connectivity impede my sessions?

BetterHelp’s audio/video platforms work reliably even on limited rural connections, as long as the user’s internet connection is stable. And asynchronous chat therapy remains robust as a backup if needed.