How to Choose an Online Therapy Platform

With many online therapy platforms available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide outlines factors to consider when exploring your options. This is educational information only—it does not constitute a recommendation for any specific platform or service.

Understanding Your Needs

Before exploring platforms, it helps to think about what you're looking for:

What type of support do you need?

• Talk therapy: Conversation-based treatment with a therapist
• Psychiatric care: Medication evaluation and management
• Specialized therapy: Specific approaches like CBT, DBT, EMDR, or others
• Couples or family therapy: Relationship-focused treatment
• General support: Emotional support and coping strategies

What communication style works for you?

• Video sessions: Face-to-face conversations via webcam
• Phone sessions: Voice calls without video
• Text/messaging: Asynchronous communication throughout the week
• Combination: Mix of live sessions and messaging

What's your budget?

• Do you have insurance that covers mental health services?
• What can you afford out of pocket if insurance doesn't apply?
• Are you looking for subscription-based pricing or pay-per-session?

Key Factors to Consider

1. Provider Credentials and Licensing

This is perhaps the most important factor. Ensure that:

• Providers are licensed mental health professionals (not just "coaches" unless that's what you want)
• Providers are licensed in your state (licensing requirements vary by state)
• You can verify credentials through your state's licensing board
• The platform clearly displays provider qualifications

Common credentials to look for include: LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), PhD or PsyD (Psychologist), and MD (Psychiatrist).

2. Types of Therapy Offered

Different platforms specialize in different approaches:

• Some focus on specific modalities (CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, etc.)
• Some specialize in certain issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships)
• Some offer psychiatry alongside therapy
• Some cater to specific populations (LGBTQ+, veterans, specific age groups)

Consider whether the platform offers the type of therapy that matches your needs.

3. Cost and Insurance

Pricing models vary significantly:

• Subscription models: Weekly or monthly fee for a package of services
• Per-session pricing: Pay for each individual session
• Insurance-based: Submit to insurance for reimbursement
• Sliding scale: Fees adjusted based on income

Questions to ask:

• Does the platform accept your insurance?
• What are the total costs including any fees?
• What happens if you need to cancel or pause?
• Are there hidden costs (intake fees, platform fees, etc.)?

4. Therapist Matching

How you're connected with a therapist matters:

• Some platforms assign you a therapist based on questionnaire responses
• Some let you browse and choose from available therapists
• Some offer both options
• Consider whether you can easily switch if the match isn't right

5. Availability and Scheduling

Consider practical factors:

• Are appointment times available that fit your schedule?
• How far in advance do you need to book?
• What's the cancellation policy?
• For messaging-based services, how quickly do providers typically respond?

6. Privacy and Security

Your mental health information is sensitive. Look for:

• HIPAA compliance (in the United States)
• Clear privacy policies explaining how data is used
• Encrypted communications
• Information about data storage and retention
• Clarity about what information is shared with third parties

7. User Experience

The platform should be easy to use:

• Is the website or app intuitive?
• Is it compatible with your devices?
• Is technical support available if you have problems?
• Can you easily communicate with your therapist between sessions?

8. Reviews and Reputation

Research the platform's track record:

• Read user reviews on multiple sources
• Look for reviews that discuss the quality of care, not just the technology
• Consider both positive and negative feedback
• Check if there have been any significant complaints or issues

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a platform:

• Doesn't clearly display provider credentials
• Makes promises about results or "curing" conditions
• Uses unlicensed providers for clinical services
• Has unclear or hidden pricing
• Makes it difficult to cancel or get refunds
• Has vague or concerning privacy practices
• Pressures you to sign up quickly
• Has numerous unresolved complaints

Questions to Ask Before Starting

Before committing to a platform, consider asking:

1. What are the qualifications and licensure of the therapists?
2. Is the platform HIPAA-compliant?
3. What is the total cost, including all fees?
4. Does my insurance apply, and how does billing work?
5. How are therapists matched with clients?
6. What happens if I want to switch therapists?
7. How do I cancel if the service isn't right for me?
8. What kind of support is available if I have technical issues?
9. How is my data stored and protected?
10. What are the limitations of the service?

Making Your Decision

There's no single "best" platform for everyone. The right choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, budget, and circumstances. Consider:

• Starting with your insurance company's list of covered telehealth providers
• Trying a platform's initial consultation or trial period if offered
• Being willing to switch if your first choice doesn't feel right
• Trusting your instincts about whether a platform and therapist feel like a good fit

Remember that the therapeutic relationship—how well you connect with your therapist—is often more important than the platform itself.

When Online Therapy May Not Be Appropriate

Online therapy has limitations. It may not be suitable if you:

• Are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis
• Have active thoughts of harming yourself or others
• Have severe mental illness requiring intensive treatment
• Need services that require in-person evaluation
• Don't have reliable access to technology or private space

If you're unsure whether online therapy is appropriate for your situation, consult with a healthcare provider.

Important Disclaimer