We researched and analyzed 16 online therapy platforms to find the best options for different needs and budgets. Here are our top picks based on pricing, features, therapist quality, and real user feedback.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you sign up through our links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us maintain this free resource. Our rankings are based on our research methodology, not commission rates.
The largest online therapy platform with 30,000+ licensed therapists. Best for first-timers and general mental health support. Offers unlimited messaging plus weekly live sessions.
Pros
Cons
Best for: First-time therapy users, general anxiety/depression, people wanting messaging-based support
The best option if you have insurance coverage. Accepts major insurers including Aetna, Cigna, and Optum. Also offers psychiatry for medication management.
Pros
Cons
Best for: People with insurance coverage, those who need medication management
The most affordable mainstream option starting at $50/week. Fast matching (under 1 hour claim) and a human-first approach that users appreciate.
Best for: Budget-conscious users, students, those preferring text-based therapy
Best for medication management if you need antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication (but no longer prescribes controlled substances like stimulants).
Note: Cerebral stopped prescribing controlled substances (Adderall, Xanax) in 2022 following regulatory scrutiny. They now focus on SSRIs and similar medications.
Best for: Depression/anxiety medication management, combined therapy + meds
Specialized ERP therapy for OCD. Insurance accepted.
Shared chat room and 3-way video for couples therapy.
Built for ages 13-19 with privacy controls for parents.
Crisis care program, treats higher-acuity patients. Insurance accepted.
Insurance-only psychiatric practice. 60-min intake sessions.
| Platform | Price | Insurance | Psychiatry | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetterHelp | $65–$100/wk | ✗ | ✗ | General/First-timers |
| Talkspace | $69–$109/wk | ✓ | ✓ | Insured users |
| Calmerry | $50–$90/wk | ✗ | ✗ | Budget-conscious |
| Cerebral | $99–$365/mo | ✓ | ✓ | Medication mgmt |
| NOCD | $120–$240/sess | ✓ | ✗ | OCD (ERP therapy) |
| Regain | $65–$90/wk | ✗ | ✗ | Couples |
Yes. Research shows that virtual CBT is as effective as in-person CBT for treating anxiety and depression. A 2025 systematic review confirmed this finding for both adults and youth.
Calmerry starts at around $50/week, making it the most affordable mainstream option. However, if you have insurance, Talkspace or Talkiatry (copay-only) may be significantly cheaper.
Therapists cannot prescribe medication—only psychiatrists and certain other medical providers can. Platforms like Talkspace, Cerebral, Talkiatry, and Brightside offer psychiatry services for medication management.
Some platforms accept insurance—Talkspace, NOCD, Brightside, Talkiatry, Amwell, MDLive, and Teladoc all have insurance coverage. BetterHelp, Calmerry, and Regain are primarily cash-pay.