Being a person can come with its challenges. However, talk therapy can provide the necessary support.
For individuals facing transportation issues, time constraints, or living in areas with limited mental health support, online therapy offers a convenient solution. After conducting extensive research and testing appointments on eight video therapy platforms, our top recommendation for online therapy is MDLive.
If you are seeking a specific type of therapist licensed in your state, we have also compiled a list of free or low-cost therapist-finding services that can assist in your search for the best talk therapy option for you.
Our Recommendation
MDLive’s secure, accredited video therapy platform has an impressive number of licensed mental health professionals to choose from nationwide.
The wide availability of therapists on MDLive makes it easier to find and book appointments quickly, with more options compared to other platforms we considered across four test states. Additionally, MDLive is the only platform to offer an “appointment request” feature, allowing users to request alternative available times if the therapist’s schedule does not align with their own.
This platform is accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), providing assurance of high-quality care standards. Additionally, MDLive holds a certificate from the Hitrust Alliance, which evaluates data security, ensuring the confidentiality and safety of user information. Accepting some insurance, MDLive offers a flat-rate pricing, starting at $108 per 45- to 60-minute session, one of the most cost-effective options among our top picks.
Honorable Mention
Amwell also meets our basic requirements of being secure and accredited, but it had far fewer providers available to choose from in our test states.
Amwell, accredited by NCQA and the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC) and Hitrust certified, provides a secure platform with a unique feature of allowing users to hide their face during the appointment. While having slightly fewer therapists available, Amwell offers reliable services at competitive pricing, starting at $109 for a 45-minute session.
Honorable Mention
The Doctor On Demand platform is secure and accredited, but its services are more expensive than those of our other picks.
Doctor On Demand by Included Health, accredited by NCQA, URAC, and Hitrust certified, offers secure therapy services at a higher cost, starting at $184 per 50-minute session. While providing comprehensive services, it had fewer therapist choices in the states tested, making it less flexible for users with specific scheduling needs. However, with insurance options available, Doctor On Demand remains a secure and reliable platform for online therapy.
