{
  "canary": "4b352967aa27facf",
  "category": {
    "blocked": false,
    "commerce": true,
    "criteria": [
      {
        "group": "Pricing",
        "key": "price_per_session",
        "label": "Price per Session",
        "poids": 5,
        "primary": true,
        "sens": "plus_bas_mieux",
        "type": "prix",
        "unit": "USD"
      },
      {
        "group": "Pricing",
        "key": "insurance_acceptance",
        "label": "Insurance Acceptance",
        "options": [
          "No Insurance",
          "Some Plans Accepted",
          "Widely Accepted"
        ],
        "poids": 3,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "enum"
      },
      {
        "group": "Accessibility",
        "key": "availability",
        "label": "Availability",
        "options": [
          "Limited Hours",
          "Flexible Hours",
          "24/7 Access"
        ],
        "poids": 4,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "enum"
      },
      {
        "group": "Provider Quality",
        "key": "therapist_qualifications",
        "label": "Therapist Qualifications",
        "options": [
          "Licensed Professional",
          "Board Certified",
          "Specialized Certification"
        ],
        "poids": 4,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "enum"
      },
      {
        "group": "Reputation",
        "key": "user_reviews",
        "label": "User Reviews Score",
        "poids": 4,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "nombre",
        "unit": "stars"
      },
      {
        "group": "Session Details",
        "key": "session_length",
        "label": "Session Length",
        "poids": 3,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "nombre",
        "unit": "minutes"
      },
      {
        "group": "Services",
        "key": "specializations",
        "label": "Specializations Offered",
        "poids": 2,
        "sens": "neutre",
        "type": "texte"
      },
      {
        "group": "Services",
        "key": "communication_methods",
        "label": "Communication Methods",
        "poids": 2,
        "sens": "neutre",
        "type": "texte"
      },
      {
        "group": "Technology",
        "key": "platform_features",
        "label": "Platform Features",
        "poids": 2,
        "sens": "neutre",
        "type": "texte"
      },
      {
        "group": "Onboarding",
        "key": "trial_period",
        "label": "Trial Period Available",
        "poids": 1,
        "sens": "plus_haut_mieux",
        "type": "booleen"
      }
    ],
    "faq": [
      {
        "a": "In 2026, Amwell ranks highest with a score of 76/100, followed closely by Talkspace, based on our comprehensive comparison of key factors.",
        "q": "What are the best online therapy services in 2026?"
      },
      {
        "a": "Our comparison evaluates price per session and insurance acceptance for each service, helping you find options that fit your budget and coverage.",
        "q": "How do online therapy services compare on price and insurance?"
      },
      {
        "a": "We assess therapist qualifications and service availability to ensure you can access quality care on your schedule.",
        "q": "Are online therapists qualified and available when I need them?"
      },
      {
        "a": "We provide objective data on factors like user reviews and session length, and our ranking is based on unbiased, sourced data, not paid placements.",
        "q": "How can I choose the right online therapy service for me?"
      }
    ],
    "kind": "category",
    "model": "",
    "ms": 2900,
    "neutral": false,
    "path": [
      "health",
      "mental-health",
      "online-therapy"
    ],
    "price_key": "price_per_session",
    "profile_questions": [
      {
        "options": [
          "Therapy for depression",
          "Therapy for anxiety",
          "Couples counseling",
          "General mental wellness"
        ],
        "q": "What is your primary need?"
      },
      {
        "options": [
          "Under $50 per session",
          "$50 - $100 per session",
          "Over $100 per session"
        ],
        "q": "What is your budget preference?"
      }
    ],
    "subject": "service",
    "suggestions": [
      "Online psychiatry services",
      "Best mental health apps",
      "Telehealth for anxiety",
      "Online counseling platforms"
    ],
    "synthese": [
      "This comparison evaluates 11 online therapy platforms based on 10 criteria, including price per session, insurance acceptance, availability, therapist qualifications, user reviews, and session length. Amwell ranks highest with a score of 76/100, largely due to its perfect score in insurance acceptance and a strong performance in session length. Talkspace is a close second at 70/100, excelling in price per session, while BetterHelp is identified as the most affordable option. It's important to note that data for 4 out of the 11 options was sourced directly, with the remaining values being estimates and flagged accordingly.",
      "The facts in this summary are computed from the table below; only the wording is generated."
    ],
    "tier": "gold",
    "title": "Best Online Therapy Services",
    "unranked": false,
    "visual": "logo"
  },
  "country": "US",
  "freshness": {
    "age_days": 11.5,
    "stale": false,
    "ttl_days": 14
  },
  "items": [
    {
      "badges": [
        "best_overall"
      ],
      "best_for": "Users prioritizing security and accreditation with a more budget-friendly self-pay option, and who value pre-session communication with therapists.",
      "cons": [
        "Fewer providers available compared to MDLive in test states"
      ],
      "description": "A secure and accredited platform offering online therapy, with a lower self-pay price than some competitors.",
      "link_url": "https://amwell.com/",
      "logo_dom": "amwell.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/amwell.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Amwell",
      "pros": [
        "Accredited by NCQA and URAC, and Hitrust-certified",
        "Lower maximum out-of-pocket costs for self-pay sessions",
        "Allows sending messages and documents to providers in advance",
        "Option to hide face view on screen during appointments"
      ],
      "provider": "Amwell",
      "provider_url": "https://amwell.com/",
      "score": 76.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/online-therapy-services/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 100.0,
        "price_per_session": 63.0,
        "session_length": 75.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Video Calls, Phone Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "Widely Accepted",
        "platform_features": "Wide range of specialists, Multiple therapy options, Psychiatry services",
        "price_per_session": 90.0,
        "session_length": 45.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Grief, Relationship issues, Substance abuse",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.2
      },
      "verified": true
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "best_for": "Individuals and couples seeking comprehensive mental health support, including therapy and potential medication management, with broad insurance acceptance.",
      "cons": [
        "Psychiatry services billed separately",
        "Subscription-based model"
      ],
      "description": "An online therapy platform offering both therapy and psychiatry services for individuals, couples, and teens, with flexible communication options.",
      "link_url": "https://www.talkspace.com/",
      "logo_dom": "talkspace.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/talkspace.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Talkspace",
      "pros": [
        "Offers both therapy and psychiatry services",
        "Accepts most major insurance plans",
        "Diverse network of licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists",
        "Flexible communication methods including live video, audio, chat, and asynchronous messaging"
      ],
      "provider": "Talkspace",
      "provider_url": "https://www.talkspace.com/",
      "score": 70.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.addictionresource.net/treatment/online-therapy-providers/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 50.0,
        "price_per_session": 94.0,
        "session_length": 50.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Live Video, Phone Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "Some Plans Accepted",
        "platform_features": "Therapist matching, Progress tracking, Psychiatry services",
        "price_per_session": 65.0,
        "session_length": 30.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Anxiety, Depression, Couples therapy, Psychiatry, Addiction, Trauma",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.3
      },
      "verified": true
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "description": "Provides online therapy and psychiatry services with a focus on medication management and behavioral change.",
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://cerebral.com/",
      "logo_dom": "cerebral.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/cerebral.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Cerebral",
      "provider": "Cerebral",
      "score": 67.0,
      "source_url": "https://cerebral.com/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 50.0,
        "price_per_session": 88.0,
        "session_length": 50.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "Some Plans Accepted",
        "platform_features": "Personalized care plans, Medication management, Behavioral coaching",
        "price_per_session": 70.0,
        "session_length": 30.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, ADHD, Bipolar disorder",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.0
      }
    },
    {
      "badges": [
        "cheapest",
        "best_value"
      ],
      "cons": [],
      "description": "An online therapy platform that makes starting therapy easy by matching users with licensed professionals.",
      "link_url": "https://www.betterhelp.com/",
      "logo_dom": "betterhelp.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/betterhelp.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "BetterHelp",
      "pros": [],
      "provider": "BetterHelp",
      "provider_url": "https://www.betterhelp.com/",
      "score": 66.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/treatment/best-online-therapy",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 0.0,
        "price_per_session": 100.0,
        "session_length": 75.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Live Chat, Phone Calls, Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "No Insurance",
        "platform_features": "Personalized matching, Journaling, Goal setting, Resource library",
        "price_per_session": 60.0,
        "session_length": 45.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Trauma, Stress, Addiction, Grief, LGBTQ+ matters",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.5
      },
      "verified": true
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "description": "Specializes in providing LGBTQ+-affirming therapy from licensed professionals.",
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://www.pridecounseling.com/",
      "logo_dom": "pride.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/pride.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Pride Counseling",
      "provider": "Pride Counseling",
      "score": 66.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.pridecounseling.com/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 0.0,
        "price_per_session": 100.0,
        "session_length": 75.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Live Chat, Phone Calls, Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "No Insurance",
        "platform_features": "LGBTQ+ specific matching, Resource library",
        "price_per_session": 60.0,
        "session_length": 45.0,
        "specializations_offered": "LGBTQ+ issues, Identity, Relationships, Family, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.6
      },
      "verified": false
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "description": "Offers online therapy specifically for teenagers, connecting them with licensed therapists.",
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://www.teencounseling.com/",
      "logo_dom": "teen.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/teen.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Teen Counseling",
      "provider": "Teen Counseling",
      "score": 66.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.teencounseling.com/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 0.0,
        "price_per_session": 100.0,
        "session_length": 75.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Live Chat, Phone Calls, Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "No Insurance",
        "platform_features": "Teen-focused matching, Parent involvement options",
        "price_per_session": 60.0,
        "session_length": 45.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Teen issues, Anxiety, Depression, Bullying, Self-esteem, Family conflicts",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.5
      }
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "description": "Focuses on relationship counseling for individuals and couples, with licensed therapists.",
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://www.regain.us/",
      "logo_dom": "regain.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/regain.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "ReGain",
      "provider": "ReGain",
      "score": 66.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.regain.us/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 0.0,
        "price_per_session": 100.0,
        "session_length": 75.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Messaging, Live Chat, Phone Calls, Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "No Insurance",
        "platform_features": "Relationship-focused matching, Joint sessions for couples",
        "price_per_session": 60.0,
        "session_length": 45.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Couples counseling, Relationship issues, Divorce, Family conflicts, Communication problems",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.4
      }
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "best_for": "Families seeking online therapy for children of all ages, provided cost is not the primary concern.",
      "cons": [
        "Priciest service tested for self-pay",
        "Fewer therapist choices compared to MDLive in test states"
      ],
      "description": "A secure and accredited platform that works with providers who see children of all ages, though it is the priciest service tested.",
      "link_url": "https://www.doctorondemand.com/",
      "logo_dom": "doctor.com",
      "logo_url": "https://unavatar.io/doctor.com?fallback=false",
      "name": "Doctor On Demand",
      "pros": [
        "Accredited by NCQA and URAC, and Hitrust-certified",
        "Works with providers who see children of all ages"
      ],
      "provider": "Doctor On Demand",
      "provider_url": "https://www.doctorondemand.com/",
      "score": 56.0,
      "source_url": "https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/online-therapy-services/",
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 100.0,
        "price_per_session": 14.0,
        "session_length": 83.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Video Calls",
        "insurance_acceptance": "Widely Accepted",
        "platform_features": "Urgent care, Therapy, Psychiatry, Pediatric care",
        "price_per_session": 129.0,
        "session_length": 50.0,
        "specializations_offered": "Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Relationship issues, Addiction",
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": false,
        "user_reviews_score": 4.4
      },
      "verified": true
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://mdlive.com/",
      "name": "MDLive",
      "score": 41.0,
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 50.0,
        "price_per_session": 0.0,
        "session_length": 100.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": "Video",
        "insurance_acceptance": "Some Plans Accepted",
        "platform_features": null,
        "price_per_session": "140",
        "session_length": 60,
        "specializations_offered": null,
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": null,
        "user_reviews_score": null
      }
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://growtherapy.com/",
      "name": "Grow Therapy",
      "score": 27.0,
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 100.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": null,
        "insurance_acceptance": "Widely Accepted",
        "platform_features": null,
        "price_per_session": null,
        "session_length": null,
        "specializations_offered": null,
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": null,
        "user_reviews_score": null
      }
    },
    {
      "badges": [],
      "estimated": true,
      "link_url": "https://sesamecare.com/",
      "name": "Sesame Care",
      "score": 27.0,
      "subscores": {
        "insurance_acceptance": 100.0
      },
      "values": {
        "availability": "Flexible Hours",
        "communication_methods": null,
        "insurance_acceptance": "Widely Accepted",
        "platform_features": null,
        "price_per_session": null,
        "session_length": null,
        "specializations_offered": null,
        "therapist_qualifications": "Licensed Professional",
        "trial_period_available": null,
        "user_reviews_score": null
      }
    }
  ],
  "lang": "en",
  "license": "Citation with a link to the URL is allowed. Bulk extraction and redistribution of the catalog is prohibited. Volume access: contact us.",
  "markdown_url": "https://comparefairly.com/en/US/best-online-therapy-services.md",
  "neutral": false,
  "notice": "Neutral ranking, never paid; sorted on measured criteria. Each value is sourced or marked as an estimate (see per-item fields).",
  "query": "best online therapy services",
  "source": "CompareFairly",
  "title": "Best Online Therapy Services",
  "unranked": false,
  "url": "https://comparefairly.com/en/US/best-online-therapy-services"
}