In today’s fast-paced world, seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming.
Traditional therapy often presents hurdles like limited appointment availability, inconvenient locations, and high costs.
Fortunately, online platforms like BetterHelp have emerged, offering a convenient and accessible alternative.
But when you’re considering taking a leap into online therapy, one question might pop into your mind..
How Long Has BetterHelp Existed?
Founded in 2013, BetterHelp.com boasts a decade of experience connecting individuals with professional therapy.
This might seem young compared to some brick-and-mortar practices, but its journey in the online therapy landscape is impressive.
Let’s take a closer look at BetterHelp’s history and what it means for you as a potential user.
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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
✓ Subscriptions as low as $70/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Financial aid & HSA/FSA
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
From Vision to Reality: BetterHelp’s Journey
The story of BetterHelp begins with Alon Matas, who faced personal challenges finding therapy that fit his busy schedule and budget.
Recognizing this gap in accessibility, he teamed up with Danny Bragonier in 2013 to launch a platform that would change the face of mental health care.
Their vision materialized as BetterHelp, the largest online therapy platform in the world today. This growth trajectory is noteworthy, especially considering some key milestones.
Growth Trajectory
| Milestone (estimated) | Year |
| Founded | 2013 |
| Reached 10,000 therapists | 2017 |
| Acquired by Teladoc Health | 2015 |
| Reached 20,000 therapists | 2019 |
| Surpassed 30,000 therapists | 2023 |
This continuous growth signifies trust and demand.
In just a decade, BetterHelp has connected millions of users with licensed therapists across diverse specialties, demonstrating its impact on making mental health support readily available.
Addressing Concerns
While the relative newness of online therapy platforms might raise concerns for some, it’s crucial to remember that the therapists on these platforms are not beginners.
Experience Matters
BetterHelp’s network boasts licensed professionals with years of experience and expertise in various areas of mental health.
They undergo rigorous vetting and ongoing quality checks to ensure the highest standards of care.
Clinical Effectiveness
Furthermore, the effectiveness of online therapy is backed by research:
- A 2020 study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy was equally effective as in-person therapy for the treatment of anxiety and depression.
- A 2020 review in the American Journal of Psychiatry concluded that online therapy could be effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Advantages of BetterHelp
Aside from offering access to experienced therapists, BetterHelp provides significant advantages and algorithmic therapist matching:
- Convenience: Schedule sessions that fit your busy schedule from the comfort of your own home.
- Affordability: Choose from various subscription plans to fit your budget.
- Accessibility: Connect with therapists across different specialties and backgrounds, potentially expanding your options compared to local providers.
- Variety of communication options: Engage with your therapist through video calls, phone calls, messaging, and even live chat.
BetterHelp 2026: Latest Updates on Insurance, Access & Mental Wellness Insights
Insurance & Financial Accessibility
• BetterHelp online therapy costs around $70-100 per week billed on a monthly or weekly basis, or an average co-pay of $23 per session for insurance-eligible members. www.betterhelp.com/online-therapy
• BetterHelp is currently working with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. Check back to see when your state gets added. (Currently available in-network in 21 states) www.betterhelp.com/insurance
• 137,000+ people used HSA/FSA to pay for BetterHelp in 2024. Use your FSA/HSA debit card like any other debit or credit card on the payment page to pay directly for your therapy sessions. www.betterhelp.com/hsa-fsa-for-therapy
Privacy & Security
• Full data rights: request copy or permanent erasure directly in account settings. HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices applies to PHI for insured members.
• BetterHelp.com recently received HITRUST certification, recognized as the industry gold standard for information protection and assurance. www.betterhelp.com/privacy
State of Stigma (May 2025)
• BetterHelp’s first global State of Stigma Report (May 2025) surveyed 16,000+ people across 23 countries: 76% agree mental health care resolves personal problems, ~75% say seeking support is wise, yet nearly 3 in 4 see societal attitudes as discouraging, and ~60% hesitate due to stigma. Gen Z faces higher barriers (e.g., 37% view therapy seekers as “mentally weak,” 56% mild/moderate anxiety). References 2024 outcomes (72% symptom reduction) without new stats. www.betterhelp.com/state-of-stigma-report-2025
Social Impact
• The Future of Mental Health Scholarship awards 10 college students studying psychology or related fields with $10,000 each towards their education. www.betterhelp.com/social-impact
Feel Lighter Campaign & Strava Partnership
• BetterHelp’s “Feel Lighter” global campaign (launched early 2026) promotes therapy as preventative mental wellness (“gym for the mind”), featuring an active Strava partnership where users logging activity challenges (e.g., 100 minutes in set periods) receive 30% off their first month of therapy. www.betterhelp.com (homepage or blog for current promotions)
Note: Insurance, pricing, and aid availability vary by location — always confirm the latest details on the linked pages.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Journey
While BetterHelp might be a young player in the grand scheme of mental health history, its decade-long journey has been marked by impressive growth, a commitment to quality, and a focus on making therapy accessible to everyone.
Remember, the experience and expertise of its therapists, backed by research on online therapy’s effectiveness, should put your mind at ease.
Ready to take the next step? Visit BetterHelp’s website to learn more about their services and find the right therapist for you.
