Navigating telehealth for mental health: Choosing the Right Teletherapy Option for You
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 25
In today’s busy world, mental health support is just a few clicks away.
Online therapy, also known as teletherapy, makes it easier than ever to connect with a licensed professional—no commute, no waiting room, and no pressure to fit appointments into a tight schedule. But with so many platforms available, it can be hard to know where to start.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand three popular teletherapy services: BetterHelp, Talkspace, and Grow Therapy—and find the right fit for your needs.
What it offers: BetterHelp is one of the largest online therapy platforms. It offers individual counseling, couples therapy, and teen counseling, all done via video, phone, or chat. You’re matched with a therapist based on your preferences, and you can message them anytime.
Pros:
Flexible communication (chat, phone, video)
Large pool of therapists to choose from
Weekly subscription includes unlimited messaging
Things to consider:
Not covered by insurance
Costs range from $65–$90 per week, billed monthly
Great for: People who want flexible communication with a licensed therapist and prefer not to go through insurance.
What it offers: Talkspace provides therapy and psychiatric services (including medication management). You can receive support via messaging, audio, and video. Talkspace partners with several major insurance providers, making it a more affordable option for many.
Pros:
Accepts insurance (check your provider)
Includes psychiatry and medication options
Offers plans for individuals, couples, and teens
Things to consider:
Therapist communication may be less frequent on some plans
Messaging-focused plans may not feel personal enough for everyone
Great for: People who want to use insurance, or need both therapy and medication management services.
What it offers: Grow Therapy connects you with licensed therapists who accept insurance. Unlike BetterHelp or Talkspace, Grow operates more like a traditional provider directory—you choose your own therapist and schedule sessions directly with them.
Pros:
Insurance-friendly (including Medicaid and Medicare)
You choose your therapist and book directly
Offers culturally competent care and diverse provider options
Things to consider:
More traditional scheduling (usually one session per week)
Less immediate access than messaging-based platforms
Great for: People looking for long-term, insurance-covered therapy with a specific type of therapist or care approach.
Final Tips for Getting Started
Check your insurance benefits: See if teletherapy is covered and whether any of these platforms are in-network.
Be clear about your needs: Are you looking for weekly sessions? Do you need someone with trauma expertise? Make sure the platform can accommodate.
Don’t be afraid to switch: If the first therapist you’re matched with doesn’t feel like a good fit, you can always request a new one—this is your wellness journey.
At Wellness Loudoun, we want to help you find the support that works for you. Whether you're starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, know that you're not alone—and that help is within reach. Visit our Resources page for more teletherapy options and local in-person therapy options.
If you have questions about where to begin, feel free to contact us. We’re here to support your wellness, every step of the way.
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