Online Therapy Belgium: Does BetterHelp Make Sense?

Written By

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Fact Checked

A therapist sits in front of a computer, video chatting with a client. The Belgian flag hangs on the wall behind them

Note: This post is supported by our readers and contains affiliate links, which will earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.

This guide reviews BetterHelp, costs, and top alternatives to consider when choosing online counseling in Belgium.

Online therapy is gaining popularity in Belgium as a convenient and affordable option for mental health support.

For both residents and expats living in Belgium, online therapy offers the advantage of flexibility that conventional in-person counseling lacks.



Mental Health in Belgium – Key Statistics

A group of diverse individuals in Belgium engage in various activities, representing mental health statistics

With increasing rates of untreated mental health issues in Belgium, accessible online therapy options like BetterHelp.com may provide a path for more people to get the support they critically need.

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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betterhelp review

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

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

Cost Comparison: Online Therapy vs In-Office Private Counseling in Belgium

A woman sits at a desk with a laptop, comparing prices for online therapy and private counseling in Belgium. She looks thoughtful, weighing her options

On average, virtual therapy sessions in Belgium cost around 80 to 120 euros each.

However, the exact fee can differ based on factors like the therapist’s level of expertise and credentials.

Therapy Type Cost
BetterHelp Belgium About €59-82 weekly
(US$65-100)*
In-person counseling €70-90 per
45-60 min. session
Local Belgium online psychologists €80-120 weekly

In summary, online therapy through international providers is cheaper than local options. Local online and in-person rates are comparable.

*Based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 0.91 EUR. Rates may fluctuate.

Benefits of BetterHelp in Belgium

A diverse group of people in Belgium find relief and support through BetterHelp, connecting with therapists online

There are many benefits to using BetterHelp in Belgium, including:

Convenience

BetterHelp therapy can be done from anywhere, at any time, as long as you have an internet connection.

This makes it a very convenient option for busy individuals or those with limited mobility.

Affordability

BetterHelp therapy is more affordable than traditional face-to-face therapy. Subscription plans start at around €59 per week, which makes regular therapy accessible to more people.

Judgment-free

The discreet and stigma-free nature of online therapy allows people to open up more easily.

Access to therapists

BetterHelp has a diverse range of therapists to choose from, all of whom are credentialed and have experience providing online therapy.

You can find a therapist that fits your needs and preferences.

Getting Started with BetterHelp

A person sits at a desk, opening a laptop with the BetterHelp website on the screen. A warm, comforting atmosphere surrounds them as they begin their journey to mental well-being

Getting started with BetterHelp in Belgium is easy. Simply create an account and fill out a questionnaire about your mental health concerns.

Matching process

Within 24 hours, BetterHelp will then match you with a therapist who is a good fit for your needs based on your questionnaire responses.

You can also specify preferences like gender, age, location, therapy approach, etc.

First session

Once matched, you can schedule your first video or phone session with your therapist. Messaging is also available if you prefer to start that way.

What To Expect in Your First Session

In your first BetterHelp session, you will meet your therapist and discuss your goals for therapy.

Treatment plan

Your therapist will then develop a customized treatment plan for you based on your needs and preferences. This is an opportunity to establish trust.

Opening up

It may take a few sessions to feel comfortable opening up. Go at your own pace and your therapist will guide you. Being patient with yourself is key.

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Tips for Making the Most of BetterHelp

Here are some tips for making the most of BetterHelp for those residing in Belgium:

Be honest

Being open and honest with your therapist is key for them to help you. Don’t hold back on sharing feelings, thoughts, and experiences.

Ask questions

If you don’t understand something your therapist says, ask them to clarify. There are no stupid questions. Asking questions leads to more meaningful sessions.

Be patient

It takes time to see the results of therapy. Stick with it even when progress feels slow. Trust the process.

Attend regularly

Attending therapy sessions consistently is important. Make your sessions a priority for maximum benefit.

BetterHelp Belgium Cost

A person in Belgium calculates BetterHelp therapy costs on a laptop, surrounded by a cozy living room with a cup of coffee

The cost of BetterHelp in Belgium varies depending on your location, therapist, and length of sessions:

  • about €59-82 weekly (US$65-100), billed every four weeks
  • Monthly cost of about €237-328 (US$260-400)
  • All plans include 1 weekly individual therapy session of 30 to 45 minutes in length, 1 weekly group session, and you can message your counselor anytime in between.

A discounted rate is available on your first month of therapy and a financial aid option for those who qualify.

Reviews of BetterHelp in Belgium

While I was not able to find any reviews out of Belgium, BetterHelp.com has over 7,800 global reviews on Trustpilot with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The platform appears to be well-rated for its convenient access to professional therapists, range of communication methods, and overall effectiveness.

The majority of customers have found BetterHelp to be an accessible and satisfactory way to get therapy remotely.

The good Trustpilot rating demonstrates the platform’s reputation for providing effective online counseling.

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

betterhelp logo
betterhelp review

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

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

How To Find a Qualified Psychologist in Belgium

Once you decide online therapy aligns with your priorities, where do you start? Follow these steps to choose the best digital platform in Belgium:

  • Search a government directory – The Commission of Psychologists is a self-governing organization that oversees and regulates the field of psychology and psychologists throughout Belgium, a full directory of psychologists can be found at this link: https://www.compsy.be/en/
  • Verify Credentials – Legitimate platforms make it easy to review therapist qualifications, licenses, experience, and specialties. This transparency is mandatory.
  • Consider Your Needs – Certain platforms excel at different therapy approaches, communication styles, and mental health issues. Evaluate which aligns best with your goals.
  • Review Costs – Confirm all rates, fees, and insurance policies are clearly outlined by the platform upfront so you can anticipate expenses.

BetterHelp Alternatives in Belgium

A diverse group of people in Belgium seek mental health support from various local counseling services, highlighting the need for accessible alternatives to BetterHelp

There are other online therapy options in Belgium as well:

  • Online-therapy.com – Discreet, professional therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including the LGBTQ+ community. Starts from US$40 (~ €37) per week. Currently offering 20% off.
  • Talkspace – Allows messaging with professional therapists plus live video sessions. Psychiatrists and medication management available. Costs between US$69 (~ €66) and US$ 129 (~ €122) per week.
  • Regain – Counselors specialized in intimacy and relationships. Costs between US$65 (~ €59) and US$100 (~ €82) per week. Currently offering 20% off.

*Based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = 0.95 EUR. Rates may fluctuate.

However, BetterHelp remains a top choice for its wide range of therapists, convenience, affordability, and positive reputation.

Crisis mental health resources

  • Belgium’s TANDEMplus mobile crisis team responds within 48 hours to help those in mental distress. Call 02 201 22 00 to reach TANDEMplus weekdays 9am-3pm or leave a message after hours. You can also email tandemplus@hermesplus.be.
  • The mental health care center (MHCC) offers assistance to individuals struggling with mental health issues.
  • The Belgian Federation of Psychologists provides a directory of psychologists in Belgium, including English-speaking.
  • Crisis Helpline – Zelfmoordlijn 1813 is dedicated to providing 24/7, free, compassionate, and confidential support by phone and online chat at https://www.zelfmoord1813.be/.

Verdict: Is BetterHelp Right for Me?

While online therapy warrants careful consideration, it can be an empowering resource for expats seeking mental healthcare in Belgium.

BetterHelp can be a great option for many expats in Belgium and assessing your personal needs is important.

Online therapy tends to work best for those who are comfortable expressing themselves verbally, have a quiet place, and are open to video chatting.

With the right fit provider, YOU maintain control over your emotional well-being – something easy to lose when displaced abroad.

FAQs

A person in Belgium reads FAQs about BetterHelp on their computer, with a map of Belgium and a cup of coffee on the desk

What should I do if I’m not connecting well with my online therapist?

It’s important to have a strong client-therapist relationship for therapy to be effective.

If you find after a few sessions that you aren’t comfortable opening up or aren’t making good progress, consider finding a new therapist who is a better fit.

Don’t hesitate to be upfront with your concerns and work together to determine if switching providers would be beneficial. The right match makes all the difference.

Who can benefit from online therapy?

Online therapy can be a great option for many different people, including:

  • Those with busy or irregular schedules who need flexible appointment times
  • People in rural areas without nearby providers
  • Those with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses that make travel difficult
  • Individuals with social anxiety who aren’t comfortable in an office
  • People who frequently travel or live abroad temporarily
  • Anyone looking for specialized therapists or treatment approaches

References

  1. Health in Belgium – highlights. https://hospitalhealthcare.com/insight-and-analysis/country-profiles/health-in-belgium
  2. Unmet mental health needs in the general population: perspectives of Belgian health and social care professionals. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7526210/
  3. Number of suicides committed in Belgium from 2006 to 2020. https://www.statista.com/statistics/519309/suicide-figures-for-belgium/
  4. For a healthy Belgium, Anxiety and depression. https://www.healthybelgium.be/en/health-status/mental-health/anxiety-and-depression
  5. Share of population with a generalized anxiety disorder in Belgium from 2001 to 2020. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1114600/generalized-anxiety-disorder-prevalence-belgium/
  6. NIH, Psychiatry in Belgium. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6734844
  7. On The Couch: The Most Psychiatrists Per Capita. https://www.statista.com/chart/5753/the-most-psychiatrists-per-capita/

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

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About the author

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Mindful living for a happier, healthier you. I’m a medical writer, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a mental health advocate in Warsaw, Poland, with nine years working as a therapist. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology degree from the University of Warsaw. I specialize in writing about mental health, using my experiences and academic background to educate and inspire others. In my free time, I volunteer at a Disability Learning Center and go for nature walks. My writing aims to break down mental health stigma and help others feel understood. Social connections are vital to mental well-being, and I am dedicated to fostering communities of support and empathy. By sharing knowledge and personal insights, I strive to create a more compassionate world. Social

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