Talkspace vs BetterHelp
Talkspace vs BetterHelp compared on price, insurance, psychiatry, network size and teen therapy. Here's which online therapy platform fits you.
Quick answer
Talkspace (4.1/5) is our overall pick over BetterHelp (3.9/5), though the best choice depends on your insurance and needs.
Talkspace and BetterHelp are two of the biggest names in online therapy, and both now take insurance. The real differences are scope and coverage: Talkspace also offers psychiatry and is in network with Medicare Advantage and TRICARE, while BetterHelp is therapy only with the largest therapist network. Talkspace is now owned by Universal Health Services (deal closed August 2026).
Side by side
| Talkspace | BetterHelp | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $69/wk or copay (avg $15) | $70 to $100/wk or copay (avg $23) |
| Verdict: Close on cash price, with Talkspace's plans starting a dollar lower. With insurance, Talkspace's average copay is lower. | ||
| Takes insurance | Yes (incl. Medicare Advantage, TRICARE) | Yes (125+ plans; no Medicare, Medicaid or TRICARE) |
| Verdict: Talkspace wins. Both bill insurance now, but Talkspace also covers Medicare Advantage and TRICARE members. | ||
| Psychiatry / meds | Yes (no controlled substances) | No |
| Verdict: Talkspace wins. BetterHelp does not prescribe, and Talkspace does not prescribe stimulants or benzodiazepines. | ||
| Therapist network | Large | Largest |
| Verdict: BetterHelp wins on raw network size. | ||
| Teen plans | Yes (ages 13 to 17) | Via separate Teen Counseling site |
| Verdict: Talkspace edges it. Teens use the main app, and insurance may apply. | ||
Our verdict
Talkspace is the better choice if you need medication management or have Medicare Advantage or TRICARE. BetterHelp is a strong pick if you want the largest therapist pool, and it now takes many commercial plans too.
Frequently asked questions
Is Talkspace or BetterHelp cheaper?+
Cash-pay, they are close: Talkspace starts at $69 a week and BetterHelp runs $70 to $100 a week. Both now take insurance. Talkspace reports an average copay of about $15 and BetterHelp about $23 per session.
Which one offers psychiatry?+
Talkspace offers psychiatry and medication management, though it does not prescribe controlled substances. BetterHelp is talk therapy only.
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