Can online therapy be free?

Asked by: Dr. Alta Grady  |  Last update: September 19, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (24 votes)

Yes, there is such a thing as free online therapy. Some organizations offer free support for individuals with mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. They provide a supportive community and a space to talk.

Can you get online therapy for free?

Yes, there are several online platforms that offer free counseling services. Websites like 7 Cups provide free chat support with trained listeners, while BetterHelp occasionally offers free trials. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also has resources and a helpline for mental health support.

Do you have to pay for online therapy?

Insurance coverage for e-therapy can depend upon the state where you live and the insurance that you have. Some insurance policies don't cover online therapy and some online mental health professionals don't accept insurance as payment. Paying for psychotherapy services out-of-pocket can add up quickly.

Who can I talk to online for free?

III. Our Top Picks for Free Online Therapy Chats
  • eTherapyPro - Best Overall.
  • 7 Cups — Best for Peer Support.
  • Free Online Therapy — Best for Free Assessment.
  • BlahTherapy — Best for Emotional Support.
  • TalkwithStranger! — Best for Anonymity.

Is Talkspace actually free?

Is Talkspace free? Talkspace is not a free service, but it is an affordable option for those wishing to improve their mental health through online therapy.

4 Things NOT to Say to Your Therapist

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Why did Talkspace fail?

Talkspace has been criticized for making questionable claims about its effectiveness, compromised user privacy, posted fake reviews to improve its rating in an app store, and uses freelance therapists of uncertain qualifications.

Is BetterHelp therapy free?

While free trials are not offered, BetterHelp provides affordable subscription-based pricing plans to fit different budgets and needs: Weekly Cost – For $65-100 per week (billed every four weeks), you get messaging, group classes, and weekly live sessions (30 or 45 minutes).

Is there a free therapy app?

MindShift CBT

Free content, including cognitive behavioral therapy strategies to address general worry, social anxiety, and panic.

How much does 7 cups of therapy cost?

7 Cups Cost & Insurance

There is also an option to purchase premium services, which offer additional chats and growth paths for $7.99 monthly. There are more plan options which include messaging therapy ($159 monthly) and talk therapy ($299 monthly) with licensed therapists.

What is the best free online chat site?

Top 10 Best Online Chat Rooms to Connect People
  • Paltalk. ...
  • Chatroulette. ...
  • Chatcloud. ...
  • Teen-Chat. ...
  • Discord. ...
  • Emerald. ...
  • Y99. Y99 is an international online chat room for free that provides you with various chat categories like teen, music, live, random chat, and more. ...
  • TALK. chat.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover online therapy?

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover online therapy? Yes, Blue Cross Blue Shield covers online therapy, including Charlie Health's virtual IOP and other treatment programs. Fill out our quick online form to learn more about your specific plan's coverage and benefits.

Who is not appropriate for teletherapy?

Some mental health issues can make it very challenging to conduct an online session. These services may not be appropriate for people experiencing high suicidality, ADHD, schizophrenia, amongst others.

Do you pay for online therapy?

But online therapy or web therapy services are often not covered or reimbursable by most insurance providers. If you plan to be reimbursed, check with your insurance company first. Otherwise, prepare to pay for the full cost yourself.

Are online therapists worth it?

Researchers looked at more than 60 studies and found that seeing a therapist virtually is just as effective as face-to-face sessions for most people with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD).

How much do online therapists cost?

The monthly cost of Online-Therapy.com ranges from $200–$440 based on the type of plan you choose. The platform bills monthly, and you can cancel or change your subscription anytime. Though Online-Therapy.com does not take insurance, you can pay with your HSA or FSA card.

Can I get free therapy?

Community centers, hospitals, schools, and places of worship sometimes offer free or low-cost counseling. Many community organizations also host peer-support groups (groups run by people facing the same issues) and recovery groups which can provide additional care.

Does BetterHelp take insurance?

BetterHelp is an online subscription service offering virtual therapy sessions. The company does not accept insurance, and most private medical insurers do not cover the costs. However, a person may be eligible for reduced rates if they have a low income.

How much is a 60 minute therapy session?

Even if you don't have benefits that cover mental health services, Talkspace is still more affordable than most in-person therapy. The average cost of a traditional in-person therapy session is $175 - $500 per session — a big departure from our plans!

Is there a way to talk to a therapist online for free?

Best for crisis support

The Crisis Text Line allows anyone dealing with a mental health crisis to speak with a counselor for free via text. A person simply needs to text 741741 in the United States. Once they do, an automated message will confirm receipt and help a person connect with a trained crisis counselor.

Is smiling mind free?

We believe everyone should have the tools to thrive—that's why the Smiling Mind App has remained free for individuals and families to access since day 1 - over 12 years. We do not and have not ever received government funding to keep our app free, despite our app supporting millions of Australians every year.

Where can I talk to someone for free?

Using the 988 Lifeline is free. When you call, text, or chat the 988 Lifeline, your conversation is confidential. The 988 Lifeline provides you judgment-free care.

Is Talkspace free?

It depends on how you pay. Many employers cover Talkspace for free, either directly with an employer code or through an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP). Most major health insurance plans cover Talkspace therapy, and if your plan does you'll likely only pay a copay (typically $25).

Is free therapy legit?

Being careful about "free" resources online

While numerous reputable online therapy websites offer counseling without any cost, these sites may rely on volunteers who wish to help others. These individuals may or may not have legitimate training as a counselor.

Why isn't therapy free?

There is a concern that making therapy free could lead to a decrease in the quality of care. With potentially higher demand, therapists might become overworked, and wait times could increase. There is also the fear that therapists might be less motivated if they are not compensated fairly for their services.