First of all, I want you to give yourself a pat on the back for taking charge of your mental health. Starting therapy can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many online therapy apps to choose from.
Online therapy apps are designed to bring licensed professionals and evidence-based support directly to your fingertips. These platforms connect users with therapists through text, video, or voice sessions, providing accessible solutions to your problems. But not all apps are created equal.
For a successful therapy experience, choosing the right platform for your personal needs, budget and preferences is important.
In this blog, we’ve tested and reviewed the ten best online therapy services for 2025, exploring how they work, what makes them unique, and which one might be the perfect fit for you.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Choose Online Therapy?
Online therapy might sound really far from traditional therapy and you may doubt the effectiveness of it. We get it. We are unable to see our therapist in person. But what are the ways that we can make the most of therapy or best manage our mental health? The key to a successful therapy is to create a safe space. If we worry that someone is listening in on us, we won’t be able to open up and benefit from therapy at all.
Here are some reasons why choosing online therapy can be beneficial for you.
1. Comfort in your own space
Online therapy opens up the way for you to get vulnerable in the comfort of your own desired space. You do not have to worry about someone listening or eavesdropping on your session. You choose where you feel most at ease. It could be your bedroom, a cozy corner of your home, or even your car parked in a quiet spot. This sense of control over your environment can help you feel safer, which is essential for effective therapy.
2. Flexibility that fits your schedule
Life doesn’t stop for therapy, but online therapy fits into even the busiest routines. Whether it’s during your lunch break, after putting the kids to bed, or on a weekend morning, you can schedule sessions at a time that works best for you. There’s no rushing through traffic or canceling plans—just convenient, stress-free access to your therapist.
3. Access to the right therapist for you
Along with the advancement of technology, geography no longer limits our options. With online therapy, you can connect with professionals from around the globe. This gives you a better chance of finding someone who truly understands your needs.
If you are still unsure about what type of therapist you should go for, check out our post on how to choose the right support for therapy.
4. Saves time and money
Forget spending time stuck in traffic or money on transportation. Online therapy saves it both plus, the convenience of attending from anywhere means fewer barriers to getting the help you need.
5. Complete privacy and discretion
For many, walking into a therapist’s office can feel stigmatizing. Online therapy offers a discreet alternative. You can keep your sessions entirely private without worrying about running into someone you know.
Research shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. From managing anxiety and depression to developing better coping skills, licensed therapists use evidence-based techniques to ensure quality care. Online therapy is a practical and empowering way to prioritize your mental health.
Top 10 Online Therapy Services for 2025
There are so many online therapy apps available today. Some are great for video sessions, while others focus on meditation and self-help tools. Apps like BetterHelp and Talkspace are popular for their flexibility and therapist matching, whereas platforms like Calm and Happify stand out for stress management and relaxation. However, not all will suit your needs.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 10 online therapy services for 2025. We have highlighted their unique features to help you choose the best fit for your mental health journey.
BetterHelp
Ratings in App Store: 4.8/5
Cost: $60–$90 per week (billed monthly)
Therapy Formats: Video, phone, live chat, and messaging
Services Offered: Individual therapy, couples therapy, teen therapy
Pros:
- A large network of licensed therapists makes it easy to find someone who fits your needs.
- Options for video, live chat, or phone sessions give you flexibility.
- Switching therapists is hassle-free if your first match doesn’t work out.
Cons:
- Doesn’t accept insurance, so it may not be affordable for everyone.
- Dependence on internet connectivity can sometimes disrupt sessions.
Our Take: If you value flexibility and want quick access to a therapist, BetterHelp is a fantastic choice. The platform feels easy to navigate, and the ability to communicate in multiple formats makes it less intimidating for first-time users.
Talkspace
Ratings in App Store: 4.7/5 (App Store)
Cost: $69–$129 per week
Therapy Formats: Video, messaging, live chat
Services Offered: Individual therapy, psychiatry, medication management
Pros:
- Offers both therapy and psychiatry which makes it a one-stop solution for mental health needs.
- Unlimited messaging lets you stay in touch with your therapist between sessions.
- Some insurance plans cover the costs.
Cons:
- Video sessions come with an additional cost, which can add up.
- You might feel limited by the therapist’s options compared to other platforms.
Our Take: Talkspace is perfect if you want constant support and the option for medication management. The unlimited messaging feature is great but it works best for those who prefer text-based communication.
Headspace
Ratings in App Store: 4.9/5
Cost: $12.99/month or $69.99/year
Therapy Formats: Guided meditations, mindfulness exercises
Services Offered: Stress relief, sleep improvement, focus enhancement
Pros:
- Affordable pricing with a huge variety of meditations for stress, sleep and focus.
- Easy-to-use interface with sessions you can fit into your schedule.
- Perfect for beginners trying mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide access to therapists or personalized mental health care.
- May not feel engaging if you need deeper emotional support.
Our Take: Headspace is an excellent choice for mindfulness and relaxation. It’s a great tool for managing your daily stress but isn’t a replacement for therapy.
Happify
Ratings in App Store: 4.5/5
Cost: Free basic version, $14.95/month for premium
Therapy Formats: Self-guided activities, games, and journaling
Services Offered: Mood tracking, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based activities
Pros:
- A fun, gamified approach makes it engaging for users who don’t want traditional methods.
- Affordable premium subscription with activities based on CBT techniques.
- Mood-tracking tools help you monitor progress.
Cons:
- Not ideal for severe mental health issues or those needing a professional therapist.
- Lacks real-time human interaction.
Our Take: If you need a mood booster and want to build positive habits, go for Happify. It’s ideal for people who prefer a self-guided approach to mental health improvement.
Calm
Ratings in App Store: 4.8/5
Cost: $14.99/month or $69.99/year
Therapy Formats: Guided meditations, mindfulness practices, sleep stories
Services Offered: Stress relief, relaxation, better sleep
Pros:
- A wide range of guided meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises.
- High-quality content designed for stress relief and better sleep.
- Family-friendly, with options for all age groups.
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer therapy or direct interaction with professionals.
- Primarily focused on relaxation rather than problem-solving.
Our Take: Calm is wonderful for improving sleep. It’s perfect for managing stress but lacks the depth of professional therapy if that’s what you need.
Grow Therapy
Ratings in App Store: 4.6/5
Cost: Varies by provider (accepts insurance)
Therapy Formats: Video and in-person sessions
Services Offered: Individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy
Pros:
- Accepts insurance, which makes therapy more affordable for many users.
- Offers in-person and online sessions for better flexibility.
- Easy-to-use search tools to find therapists based on your specific needs.
Cons:
- Coverage and therapist availability can vary depending on your location.
- Costs can still be high if you don’t have insurance.
Our Take: Grow Therapy stands out for blending in-person and virtual options. If you want insurance-covered therapy and flexibility, this platform is worth considering.
7 Cups
Ratings in App Store: 4.4/5
Cost: Free listener chats, $150/month for licensed therapy
Therapy Formats: Messaging, group chats
Services Offered: Peer support, therapy, self-help guides
Pros:
- Free listener chats make mental health support accessible to everyone.
- Affordable therapy plans for those ready to connect with a licensed therapist.
- Active peer-support communities for shared experiences.
Cons:
- Text-based therapy isn’t for everyone and can feel impersonal.
- The availability of licensed therapists can be limited in some areas.
Our Take: If you are looking for a mix of free peer support and affordable therapy 7 Cups is ideal. It’s especially helpful if you feel more comfortable starting with text communication.
Brightside Health
Ratings in App Store: 4.7/5
Cost: $95/month for therapy, $295/month for therapy + medication
Therapy Formats: Video, messaging
Services Offered: Therapy, psychiatry, medication delivery
Pros:
- Combines therapy and medication management in one platform.
- Transparent pricing and insurance options make it more accessible.
- Designed for individuals dealing with anxiety and depression.
Cons:
- Costs can add up if you’re using both therapy and medication services.
- Availability may vary depending on your state.
Our Take: Brightside Health is a great choice if you think of availing medication alongside therapy. It’s comprehensive but works best with specific conditions like anxiety or depression.
ReGain
Ratings in App Store: 4.6/5
Cost: $60–$90 per week (billed monthly)
Therapy Formats: Video, messaging
Services Offered: Couples therapy
Pros:
- Designed specifically for couples with relationship issues.
- Flexible communication options, including video and messaging.
- Affordable pricing compared to in-person couples therapy.
Cons:
- No individual therapy options.
- Both partners need to participate for the sessions to be effective.
Our Take: ReGain is ideal for couples who want to work on their relationship together. It’s convenient, affordable and provides a safe space for open communication.
Teen Counseling
Ratings in App Store: 4.5/5
Cost: $60–$90 per week (billed monthly)
Therapy Formats: Video, phone, messaging
Services Offered: Therapy for teens with parental involvement
Pros:
- Focused on the unique challenges teens face.
- Offers parental involvement without overshadowing the teen’s privacy.
- Flexible communication methods, including text and video.
Cons:
- Requires parental consent, which may feel restrictive for some teens.
- Limited scope if other family members need therapy.
Our Take: Teen Counseling is a safe space for teens to open up and seek help. It’s a solid option for families looking for mental health support tailored to younger individuals.
What to Look for in Online Therapy Service
If you have never gone for therapy before you might want to know how it really works and what to expect. But trust me, the process is simpler than you imagine. The first step is choosing the right platform. There are so many options out there, and it depends on what you’re looking for. It could be individual therapy, couples counseling, or something more specialized. Most platforms have directories where you can browse licensed therapists and even read reviews. This can make it easier to narrow down your choices.
How It Works
Once you have settled on a platform, you will be given a questionnaire to fill out. It will ask you questions about your mental health concerns, the kind of support you are seeking and what you hope to achieve. Based on your answers, the service will match you with a therapist. Don’t get nervous about whether you will like them or not, you could always request a different therapist if you wish.
In setting up sessions, you can choose from video calls, phone sessions, or even text-based therapy. We recommend video sessions because they provide a feel of face-to-face connection. You will enjoy the flexibility of scheduling sessions around your work hours. Some platforms even let you message your therapist anytime, which can be helpful on days when you need quick support.
It might feel a bit odd at first, talking about personal issues through a screen, but it quickly gets natural. If you’re considering online therapy, I’d say just give it a try—you’ll likely find it seamless and supportive.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before you start, there are a few practical things to consider. A stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone will help you avoid any disruption during your session. Make sure you have a quiet space for therapy and use headphones to keep the conversation confidential.
Patience is key. The first one might not be a perfect fit, and that’s okay. Don’t hesitate to switch if needed. Think about what you want to achieve and discuss these with your therapist. And remember, therapy works best when it’s consistent. Treat your sessions like any important appointment.
Common Challenges
Online therapy isn’t without its quirks. Building a connection with your therapist might take a little longer without the natural cues of in-person body language. Give it time, and you’ll likely find the rapport growing stronger with each session.
Tech issues can pop up, like dropped calls or lagging video. Always have a backup plan. You can switch to phone sessions if needed. Talking about personal issues through a screen can also feel odd at first, but this awkwardness usually fades. The success of therapy often depends on how much you’re willing to engage.
Bottom Line
Taking the step toward therapy is a courageous and important decision. Even though the number of so many apps can be overwhelming, the good news is that there is something for everyone. Online therapy works just as effectively as in-person therapy once you have found the right fit. It’s all about comfort, trust, and consistency.
Our advice? Don’t hesitate to try a few platforms if needed. It’s important that you feel heard and understood by your therapist, so take the time to find the right match. The right platform can make all the difference in making you feel supported.
Prioritize your mental health in 2025. Choose the right therapy app and start your journey towards healing and growth today.