Online therapy costs vary significantly depending on the platform, therapist credentials, session format, and whether you use insurance. Understanding the full pricing landscape helps you find quality mental health care within your budget.
Online Therapy Pricing Models
Subscription-Based Platforms
Many major online therapy platforms use monthly subscription pricing that includes weekly live sessions plus unlimited messaging between sessions.
- Standard subscription: $260–$360/month for weekly 45-minute sessions
- Financial aid pricing: Some platforms offer reduced rates of $180–$240/month for qualifying individuals
- What's included: Typically 4 live sessions per month plus daily messaging access
Per-Session Pricing
Some platforms and individual therapists charge per session without requiring a subscription commitment.
- Licensed therapists (LCSW, LMFT, LPC): $80–$150 per session
- Psychologists (PhD, PsyD): $120–$200 per session
- Psychiatrists (medication management): $150–$300 per session
Insurance-Based Pricing
Using insurance for online therapy typically means paying your standard mental health copay or coinsurance.
- Typical copay: $10–$50 per session
- Coinsurance: 10–30% of the session cost after deductible
- Deductible consideration: If you have not met your deductible, you may pay full cost until it is met
Cost Comparison: Online vs In-Person
| Payment Method | Online Therapy | In-Person Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Self-pay (no insurance) | $80–$150/session | $100–$250/session |
| With insurance (copay) | $10–$50/session | $10–$50/session |
| Subscription model | $260–$360/month (4 sessions) | Not typically available |
| Total monthly cost (weekly sessions, self-pay) | $320–$600 | $400–$1,000 |
Hidden Costs and Fees to Watch For
- Cancellation fees: Some platforms charge if you cancel late or miss appointments
- Subscription pause fees: Fees to temporarily pause your membership
- Therapist switching fees: Charges to change therapists (uncommon but exists on some platforms)
- Early termination fees: Penalties for ending a subscription before minimum commitment
- Platform fees: Additional fees beyond the therapy session cost
Ways to Reduce Online Therapy Costs
Financial Assistance Programs
Many platforms offer sliding scale pricing or financial aid for those who qualify. Applications typically require income verification.
Insurance Reimbursement
Even if your online therapy platform is out-of-network, you may be able to submit claims for partial reimbursement. Ask your provider for a superbill (detailed receipt) to submit to your insurance.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Many employers offer EAP benefits that include free therapy sessions (typically 3–8 sessions per year). Check with your HR department.
Community Mental Health Centers
Federally qualified health centers and community mental health centers offer sliding-scale therapy based on income. Many now offer telehealth options.
Insurance Coverage for Online Therapy
What Most Plans Cover
Mental health parity laws require most insurance plans to cover mental health services, including telehealth, at the same level as medical services. Most commercial plans cover online therapy at the same copay as in-person therapy.
Coverage Limitations
- Provider must be in-network or you may pay higher out-of-network rates
- Some plans limit the number of therapy sessions per year
- Prior authorization may be required
- Diagnosis requirement: you must have a diagnosable mental health condition
How to Check Coverage
- Call your insurance's mental health/behavioral health number (usually on your insurance card)
- Ask specifically about telehealth therapy coverage
- Verify if your chosen platform or therapist is in-network
- Confirm your copay, deductible status, and any session limits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
For self-pay patients, online therapy is typically 20-40% cheaper than in-person therapy with a licensed therapist. However, if you have good insurance coverage, the cost difference may be minimal since most plans cover both at the same rate.
Can I use FSA or HSA funds for online therapy?
Yes. Online therapy qualifies as a medical expense, so you can use FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) funds to pay for sessions.
Why do subscription platforms cost more than per-session?
Subscription platforms typically include unlimited messaging access between live sessions, which provides ongoing support beyond the weekly video call. If you calculate per-session cost ($260-$360 ÷ 4 sessions = $65-$90 per session), subscriptions can be cost-effective for committed weekly therapy.
Find Affordable Online Therapy
Our comparison evaluates online therapy platforms on pricing transparency, insurance acceptance, financial aid availability, and overall value — helping you find quality mental health care within your budget.
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