Therapy can be a great way to get mental health support, but it can often be difficult to find the time to do it. According to the House of Commons, in 2022/23, it’s estimated that 3.58 million people in the UK were in contact with mental health services – showing a huge need.
And it isn’t easy to get help even if you ask for it. NHS referral lists can be long, and finding the right therapist takes time and can be expensive – not to mention needing someone nearby to save time and cost on travel.
But now, thanks to online therapy apps, getting the support you need is easier and more flexible than ever.
How Does Online Therapy Work?
Online therapy is essentially the same as regular therapy, it’s just done online instead of in an office.
These sessions are usually run by qualified mental health professionals who are able to provide counselling online in exchange for a fee. This can either be through video calls, voice calls or through instant messaging platforms.
This form of therapy is particularly useful for those that live in rural areas or don’t want to travel.
Many of these online therapy platforms also have user-friendly ways for patients to find professionals that can help with their specific needs – making it easy to find the right match.
If you’re thinking about exploring online therapy, you’re probably wondering where to start. Here, we take a look at some of the best online therapy apps to help people get the remote mental health support they need.
Talkspace
Talkspace is an online therapy app that is compatible with a range of health insurance companies.
The app allows users to search for and be matched with licenced therapists that can help guide them towards improving their mental wellbeing. Users are able to then communicate with their therapists through live messaging, video sessions or both – meaning they get the support they need, whenever they need it.
BetterHelp
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects people with qualified therapists across their region.
The app works by allowing users to pay for a number of sessions in one go, helping them get better rates. Currently, the app serves over 5,500,000 people, allowing them to access the support they need – no matter where they are.
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Thriveworks
Thriveworks is a mental health provider of therapy and psychiatry. Their licenced therapists offer personal care for nearly a hundred mental health issues, including ADHD, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
Whilst it does currently only exist in the US, we will definitely be watching closely to see how Thriveworks continue to grow and expand across the rest of the world.
Reflectly
Not traditional online therapy, but certainly helpful, reflectly uses AI to help users reflect on their daily thoughts. Think about it as a personal mental health companion in your pocket.
By journaling every day, users can work towards building self-esteem, tracking mood cycles and understanding the root of their thoughts and feelings.
Breathwrk
Online therapy isn’t just about talking, it’s about learning how to self-regulate.
Breathwrk is a health and performance app, with a range of breathing exercises and classes that help people calm down, focus and manage their emotions.
The app is designed with science in mind, helping users breathe better and live better.
Wysa
Wysa is an AI-powered personal coach that is on a mission to make mental health support more accessible.
Their AI offers strategies and support for dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression alongside other mental health needs – all without needing to speak to a human therapist.
This not only allows people to get the support they need, but is also more affordable than traditional online therapy.
ReGain
Specifically for couples, ReGain is an online therapy platform that allows people to access expert relationship therapists in their own time.
The platform works by charging a set amount every 4 weeks, and allowing users to attend a weekly live session, as well as 24/7 text, audio, and video messaging. That way, they can speak to their therapist online any time they need.
MindDoc
MindDoc is a mood tracking app that uses CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) and ACT (acceptance commitment therapy) to help people work through areas of stress and anxiety.
The app also comes with courses and exercises, personalised recommendations and self-care questions to help users improve their mood. The app is perfect for those who want mental health guidance online, or need to track their mood for therapy sessions.