Best Online Therapy in Netherlands | Online Counseling [2023]

This article will explore the effectiveness of online therapy and guide on finding the right online therapist in the Netherlands.

Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or location. In the Netherlands, awareness around mental health has grown, leading more individuals to openly discuss their struggles.

One powerful tool that has emerged for improving mental well-being is online therapy. While initially met with skepticism, advancements in technology and shifting perceptions have transformed online therapy into a legitimate, effective treatment option.

Need for mind care in the Netherlands

• Over 700,000 individuals in the Netherlands experience depression annually
• Excluding substance abuse, 16% of the Dutch population experiences some form of mental health issue each year.
• In 2021, nearly 1 in 5 Dutch youth between 12 and 24 years old, specifically 18 percent, experienced poor mental health.
• The pandemic adversely affected mental health of nearly half of young people in the Netherlands.
• Mental health in the Netherlands has declined over the past 20 years, reaching its lowest point currently.

The data indicates mental health issues are relatively prevalent in the Netherlands, especially conditions like anxiety, depression, and burnout. Rates of chronic depression and suicide have also been rising over the past decade.

Sponsored, keeps our community free. Therapy Helpers does not accept money for reviews.

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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

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Does online therapy work?

Let’s review whether online therapy is effective:

• Numerous studies show online therapy can be as effective as in-person treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more.
• A 2021 study found online CBT was as effective as face-to-face CBT for treating depression, social anxiety, and panic disorder.
• A 2019 study found that BetterHelp users saw significant decreases in depression after using the platform.
• Online therapy enhances accessibility – a 2019 survey found nearly 72% of surveyed would try digital psychotherapy.

In summary, the current body of evidence demonstrates online therapy can be an effective way to get mental health treatment remotely. While more research is still needed, existing data supports its efficacy.

Best platforms for online therapy Netherlands

When selecting an online therapy provider, key considerations include:

• Services offered
• Therapist qualifications
• Cost

Here are the best online therapy platforms fully available in the Netherlands:

BetterHelp

• Offers the widest range of services with a large global team of credentialed therapists.
• Over 33,000 professional, experienced therapists
• You can message your therapist anytime
• Financial assistance offered
• Visa/MasterCard, Paypal accepted.
• Cost: Plans start at US$65 (~ €59) per week and the highest plan is US$90 (~ €82) per week, billed every four weeks.

Talkspace

• Connects users with credentialed therapists, providing individual, couples, and teenage counseling.
• Over 5,000 therapists
• Psychiatry & medication management available
• Cost: Plans start at US$69 (~ €66) per week, billed monthly. Currently offering US$ 80 (~ €76) off.

Regain

• Connects users with experienced therapists who specialize in relationship and intimacy issues.
• Cost: Plans start at US$65 (~ €59) per week, billed every four weeks. Currently offering 20% off.

Calmerry

• Connects users with professional therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ concerns.
• Encrypted sessions, confidential billing.
• Discreet, affirming support from counselors who get you.
• Match with a suitable therapist in under 60 minutes.
• Cost: Plans start at US$50 (~ €47) per week, billed monthly. Currently offering 25% off.

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

How to choose the right psychologist online

Finding the most suitable therapist involves evaluating:

• Credentials – Are they licensed and properly qualified?
• Specialization – Do they specialize in your needs (anxiety, depression, etc)?
• Communication style – Do you feel comfortable communicating with them?
• Availability – Does their schedule fit with your needs?
• Cost – What is the cost, and are flexible payment options available?

Some platforms may offer an opportunity to ask questions during the initial therapist matching process, allowing you to evaluate communication style, therapist credentials, and overall fit.

Online vs traditional in-person therapy

Online therapy, also known as e-therapy, involves meeting with a therapist remotely using video conferencing or messaging services. Some key advantages over traditional in-person therapy in the Netherlands include:

• Driven by these benefits, perceptions have shifted to recognize online therapy as a legitimate and cost-effective option.

It provides a pathway to care that fits today’s increasingly digital world. For some users, combining the two may be the most beneficial.

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

Take Assessment

Making the most of online therapy

Once a therapist has been selected, maximize the value from sessions by:

• Being open and honest – Holding back will limit effectiveness.
• Setting goals – Identify targets for what you want to achieve.
• Practicing self-care – Difficult emotions may surface, so care for your overall well-being.
• Being patient – Progress takes time, so be patient with yourself.

Steps to finding an online therapist in the Netherlands

Seeking a psychologist online in the Netherlands involves a few preparatory steps:

Acquire Dutch Health Insurance

• Having insurance is compulsory in the Netherlands. Once obtained, the next steps can commence.

Register with a General Practitioner (GP)

• GP provides initial assessment, basic treatment, and referrals to therapists. They are the typical first medical point of contact.

Connect with an Online Mental Health Specialist

• If you have difficulty leaving home or have other preferences, online mental health platforms allow you to connect directly with therapists discreetly.

Insurance and cost

• Verify if your insurance covers online therapy providers.
• Standard Dutch insurance often covers therapy from a GP or referred specialist.
• European Health Insurance Card may cover some online therapy in full or partially.
• With private insurance, find an in-network therapist.
• Research rates and insurance details to find affordable options.
• Online therapy generally costs less than in-office therapy.

To find affordable online therapy options, research provider insurance acceptance, standard coverage details, out-of-network payment policies, European Health Insurance Card benefits, in-network providers if privately insured, and compare rates.

Online & in-person counseling resources in the Netherlands

• British Armed Forces Link (Netherlands) Call 0602 222 88, National (to Samaritans)
• Netherlands Suicide Hotline Call 09000767
• Netherlands Emergency Number 112
• 113Online 0900 0113 113Online offers a national suicide prevention helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through phone and online chat.
• Blijf Groep (North Holland domestic violence shelter group) 020 611 6022
• Expat psychologist Amsterdam provides research-backed treatments to adults, students, teens, couples, and families for a range of issues. Therapists collaborate with clients to set personalized goals tailored to their needs. Address: Rokin 92-96, 1012 KZ Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Somesh Valentino Curti has worked as a psychologist for expats in Amsterdam since 2011. He is fluent in English and Italian. Address: Karel Doormanstraat 127, 1055 VE Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Veiligthuis (National Domestic Violence, Child Abuse and Elderly Abuse)
  0800 2000
• Amsterdam Gay Pride Foundation
  31 (0)6 1479 3189
• Mind & Heart Consulting, Megan is a South African psychologist based in Uithoorn, Netherlands, with a practice focused on helping expat children, teens, young adults, and their families. Contact: https://www.mindandheartconsulting.com/blank-3

Bottom line

In summary, online therapy breaks down barriers to provide accessible mental health treatment. Offering convenience, discretion, and flexible pricing, it is an excellent option for anyone seeking help while living in the Netherlands or abroad.

With societal stigma around mental health diminishing, it is important to remember seeking assistance is a sign of strength. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing, don’t hesitate to reach out to an online therapist. Quality resources are available to help you reclaim your mental health and get back on track.

FAQs

How do I know if an online therapist is properly licensed?

• You should verify their credentials by checking the therapist’s profile on the platform’s website. Licensed therapists have credentials listed on their profile, and their country accreditations/license numbers.

Is online therapy covered by my Dutch insurance?

• Standard Dutch health insurance often covers online therapy from a general practitioner or referred specialist. Check if your specific insurer covers the online platform or provider.

Is online therapy confidential and secure?

• Reputable online therapy platforms use encryption measures to protect messages between you and the therapist. You have the same confidentiality rights as with in-office therapy; however, confidentiality does have exceptions in rare circumstances when a person intends to harm themselves or others. Be sure to vet the platform’s security protocols.