The teenage years are a unique time that can be filled with changes and transitions, stress, and anxiety. All of this can have profound effects on mental well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health problems are one the leading causes of illness and disability in teens. ( 1 ) However, most adolescents experiencing mental health disorders do not receive treatment and half of those who do get treatment drop out. ( 2 )
Online therapy can be an effective solution that offers teens a convenient and accessible way to participate in support. Moreover, today’s adolescents have grown up with technology, so they may feel more comfortable communicating with therapists online and more likely to continue with in their treatment.
Mental health therapist Rychel Johnson, who specializes in anxiety treatment and personal empowerment, shared that her teen clients enjoy having the option to meet online. “Teens face barriers to consistent therapy: needing a ride to the office, not feeling comfortable publicly accessing therapy. They need a safe way to continue attending therapy to address their treatment goals.”
Our team of mental health experts has reviewed multiple online therapy platforms to help you decide which one may best support your child’s unique needs. We evaluated each service based on therapist quality, accessibility, cost, and privacy to determine our top eight picks for the best online therapy for teens.
Best online therapy for teens overall
Of all the online therapy services we evaluated, Teen Counseling has the most comprehensive platform. Teens are empowered to engage with their therapist in the most comfortable format, whether video, phone, live texting, or messaging. Continue reading to learn more about why we chose Teen Counseling as the best overall.
Our picks for the best online therapy for teens
- Best overall: Teen Counseling
- Best for phone therapy: Brightside
- Best for mental health support: Calmerry
- Best for texting: Talkspace
- Best that offers medication management: Sesame
- Best for psychiatry: Talkiatry
- Best for younger teens: Amwell
- Best for families: Thriveworks
Compare online therapy for teens
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Teen Counseling | Brightside | Calmerry | Talkspace | Sesame | Talkiatry | Amwell | Thriveworks | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Cost | $65-$90 per week | Varies by insurance | $50-$75 weekly | $0-$109 per week | Varies by provider | Varies by insurance | Varies by insurance | $0-$50 per session |
| Accepts insurance | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Session type | Video, phone, text, messaging | Video, phone, messaging | Video, messaging | Video, text, audio, workshops | Video, in-person | Video, messaging | Video | Video, phone, in-person |
Best overall online therapy for teens: Teen Counseling
Key product features
What you should know
Teen Counseling is a segment of BetterHelp dedicated to working with people ages 13 to 19.
- Parents and teens work with the same therapist in separate, confidential spaces.
- Teen Counseling does not accept insurance but aims to keep its prices affordable at $65 to $90 weekly.
- You can choose which works best for you with four ways to communicate with your therapist.
- There are more than 14,000 therapists available in Teen Counseling’s network.
Why we like Teen Counseling as best overall
Teen Counseling is part of BetterHelp, one of the largest online counseling platforms. We appreciate that there’s a separate space dedicated specifically to teens and the unique challenges they face. Giving teens various communication options—video, live chat, phone, and messaging—allows them the flexibility to engage in therapy however they feel comfortable.
“Teens can address real-life concerns in therapy, such as emotional regulation and healthy decision making, that are hard to want to address with parents and other authority figures. A therapist is a safe adult the teen can trust with their mental health.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
We found the website straightforward and the sign-up process easy to navigate. Either a parent or teen can initiate registration. In both cases, a brief questionnaire gathers information about the teen’s relationship with their parents, school attendance, and living arrangements.
This information will help with therapist matching. While some online platforms instantly match you with a therapist, Teen Counseling says it can take a few hours or even a few days before you get your provider.
While matched with the same therapist, the teen and parent each have a separate, private therapy room for communicating with the therapist. Teens can feel comfortable sharing anything with their therapist, knowing their conversations are confidential. They might work with their therapist on issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, bullying, self-esteem, eating disorders, anger, and more.
We love that this platform offers a variety of communication options. Teens and parents can schedule 30- to 45-minute sessions through video, phone, or live chat. They can also send unlimited asynchronous messages to their therapist anytime and receive an email notification when the therapist replies.
Unfortunately, Teen Counseling does not accept insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. Instead, you pay an out-of-pocket subscription fee that ranges from $65 to $90 weekly, depending on your location, preferences, and therapist availability. The good news is that they accept payment through HSA/FSA cards.
It’s important to note that the therapists through Teen Counseling cannot diagnose mental health conditions or prescribe medications.
What customers are saying
Teen Counseling earns high praise on Trustpilot from parents and teens who say the platform is easy to use and their experiences with their therapists were life-changing. We saw the word “empowered” mentioned frequently in how parents described their teens after therapy sessions.
“Thank you so much for your supportive and flexible platform. My daughter loves her therapist and feels empowered from their sessions.”
Jenn, Verified Trustpilot Reviewer
“Teen Counseling and our child’s counselor have been amazing,” writes Trustpilot reviewer Jenn. “They have truly changed things around for our family. Navigating through the teen years is tough for anybody (child and parents). Our therapist has allowed our child to talk openly without judgment or criticism. He has also provided us parents with feedback about our child’s needs. I don’t have enough good things to say about Teen Counseling. They have changed things around for us in a positive way.”
However, some negative reviews were posted by users who experienced therapists not showing up for appointments. There were also complaints about the program’s cost and how challenging it can be to cancel a subscription.
Theresa K. explains their experience in their Truspilot review: “I paid for sessions and set up the first appointment for my son. The therapist never showed up and did not send an email, text, or anything else to let us know why. After some back and forth with Teen Counseling, I finally got an email from Amanda, who could refund all my sessions and close my account. She did offer discounts for another therapist, but I did not feel it would benefit my son if we had to go through the trouble of another no-show.”
Specs
| Price | $65 to $90 per week |
| Insurance | No |
| Session type | Video, phone, text, messaging |
| Platforms | Online |
| Ages | 13 to 19 years old |
Best phone therapy for teens: Brightside
Key product features
What you should know
Brightside’s online mental health platform offers therapy and psychiatry services for individuals 13 years and older who are experiencing a broad range of mild to moderate mental health concerns.
- A parent will attend the first therapy session with the teen and can join to receive updates in future sessions.
- Brightside accepts many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid in select states.
- You can opt for an out-of-pocket subscription if your insurance doesn’t cover the services.
Why we like Brightside as best for phone therapy
Phone therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy while increasing accessibility. ( 3 ) Ms. Johnson adds, “Phone therapy takes away some of the pressures of meeting face-to-face while still allowing for productive conversation and maintaining a positive connection.” Brightside allows teens to engage in counseling over the phone to help them strike a balance between wanting to have an in-depth conversation with their therapist and not feeling comfortable discussing their concerns face-to-face.
As one of the best online therapy services, Brightside has an extensive provider directory with licensed mental health professionals who specialize in teens. In addition to therapy, teens can also engage with a psychiatrist for medication management.
Teens have busy schedules, and making time for multiple healthcare appointments can be challenging. We like that Brightside makes it easy for teens to get all of their care through one platform and from anywhere.
Brightside accepts many commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and some BlueCross BlueShield plans. It’s also one of the few platforms that accepts Medicare and Medicaid in certain states.
If none of those options are available, you can still participate through self-pay subscription plans, which are HSA/FSA eligible. Teen Therapy costs $299 monthly for four sessions, while Teen Therapy and Psychiatry is $349 monthly.
Like other online platforms, you’ll complete an assessment to help determine your best therapy path and match you with a therapist. We didn’t love that you have to go through the entire assessment before you can check insurance eligibility and costs, which could feel like wasted time if you find you’re not covered or can’t afford the fees.
Once matched with a provider, the parent will attend the first therapy appointment with their teen to meet the provider and provide consent. After that, the parent can join sessions occasionally to receive updates. It’s worth noting that some teens may feel uncomfortable with this level of parent participation in their therapy.
Another highlight of Brightside is their use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a foundation of their mental health practices. CBT has proven effective in helping teens work through anxiety by recognizing negative thought patterns and replacing them with positive ones. ( 4 )
In addition to their live sessions, teens can access interactive lessons and activities. Users can access all therapy sessions and additional resources via Brightside’s mobile app or online.
What customers are saying
Satisfied customers are happy they can use their insurance to help pay for therapy. Additionally, many have had a positive experience with their therapist.
“I love the care I have been provided through medication and therapy sessions! It is so convenient to be seen from my own home and to be able to reach out easily through their texting system. People complaining about price need to talk to their insurance companies; it has nothing to do with Brightside. The therapist assigned to me is fantastic, very professional, and easy to talk to. I have recommended this company to many friends and will continue to do so!”
Jennifer K., Verified BBB User
Another reviewer on Trustpilot, Amanda P., is surprised by the negative reviews as they describe their positive experience: “I’m really surprised by the negative reviews. Brightside works with my insurance provider (Aetna), so I enrolled after months of having trouble getting an in-person visit locally. Brightside has significantly improved my quality of life and my outlook on the future. I cannot understate that. I am so grateful.”
However, Brightside has low ratings on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau. Many users describe feeling deceived by the actual amount of money they owed compared to what they were told they would owe when they signed up.
Mike D. is a Trustpilot user who explains their experience with billing. “First, I want to say that my therapist is incredible…I signed up with my insurance when Brightside offered coverage with a $35 per session copay and a $0 monthly member fee. All of this is stated on my ‘Current Plan’ right up front. Fast-forward to today. I received an invoice for the past three months informing me I owe $748. I have not had 21 sessions since January.”
Specs
| Price | Varies based on insurance, $299 monthly out-of-pocket therapy, $349 monthly out-of-pocket therapy + psychiatry |
| Insurance | Yes |
| Session type | Video, phone, messaging |
| Platforms | Online, mobile app |
| Ages | 13+ years old |
Best online therapy for mental health support for teens: Calmerry
Key product features
What you should know
Calmerry’s flexible subscription plans allow you to receive mental health support at the best cadence. The user-friendly online platform and mobile app make participating in therapy easy and access additional mental health resources.
- We liked that you can see all your options for matched therapists and choose which one you want to start working with before paying for a subscription.
- Three subscription plans are available, starting at $50 weekly.
- Calmerry’s licensed therapists offer support on a wide range of mental health concerns.
- You can access mood ratings, journaling, and mental health assessments even without paying for a subscription.
Why we like Calmerry as best for mental health support
If you’re experiencing mental health concerns, it’s likely Calmerry’s therapists can offer the support you need thanks to their comprehensive range of specialties. Teens can talk to a mental health provider about anxiety and stress, relationships, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+, eating disorders, anger management, and much more.
The Calmerry platform is easily accessible through the web or a mobile app. We found the layout vibrant and easy to navigate. Additionally, we had access to our dashboard as soon as we registered and could access complimentary resources without purchasing a subscription.
Calmerry does not accept insurance, but its weekly subscription prices are reasonable compared to other online therapy services. You can select your plan based on your budget and the level of care you want to receive. We’ve outlined the subscription options below:
- Unlimited messaging only = $50 weekly
- Unlimited messaging with two video calls per month = $65 weekly
- Unlimited messaging with four video calls per month = $75 weekly
The live therapy sessions are only 30 minutes, which is shorter than some competitors’ sessions. However, you can combine two of your allotted monthly sessions into one 60-minute session.
A stand-out feature of Calmerry’s onboarding process is that you can see your therapist matches before committing to a plan and pick which therapist feels like the best fit for you. In my experience as a Behavioral Health Coach, the relationship is one of the most essential pieces of seeing treatment success, and this platform gives you a say in who you connect with.
Beyond live sessions and messaging, you can access various self-help tools on your dashboard. You can track your mood, write journal entries, and take mental health assessments to help track your progress. We were impressed by this encouragement to practice daily self-reflection, which can help further improve mental well-being. ( 5 )
What customers are saying
Calmerry is a newer company that started in 2020, but the reviews are mostly positive. It earns 4.1 stars on Trustpilot, with customers boasting about how helpful their therapists are and how affordable the pricing is.
“I want to shout out to my counselor, Natalia. She has been very helpful and guided me through a journey of self-improvement. With her, I have learned valuable tools and skills that help me manage my anxiety.”
Zac Berry, Verified Trustpilot Reviewer
Connor Huber, Truspilot reviewer, shared similar thoughts about their experience: “Calmerry was my first experience with a therapist, and it was great. Mikela introduced me to CBT, and this method really changed my life. I’ve gained new coping strategies, and now I feel confident and calm because I know how to deal with my anxiety.”
However, some users felt the experience was impersonal when messaging their therapist.
Trustpilot verified user Keri D. says, “The therapist responded daily, but they were very general responses. It felt like they would just repeat what I said in question form. Overall, it was a good experience. I just like in-person therapy better. It feels more personal.”
Specs
| Price | Starts at $50 weekly |
| Insurance | No |
| Session type | Video, messaging |
| Platforms | Online, mobile app |
| Ages | 18+ years old |
Best online therapy for teens for texting: Talkspace
Key product features
What you should know
Talkspace has licensed therapists who specialize in mental health for teens. Teens can communicate with their therapist anytime via video, audio, or text.
- Teens can participate in therapy when it works best for them using unlimited asynchronous messaging.
- Talkspace accepts most major insurances, with copays ranging from $0 to $45.
- If you pay out-of-pocket, you can choose between three subscription plans for $69, $99, or $109 per week.
- Therapy is free for New York City teens.
- Talkspace is an excellent option for teens who feel more comfortable communicating through text messaging.
Why we like Talkspace as best for texting
Research shows that teens prefer to communicate through text messaging as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. ( 6 ) Talkspace meets teens where they feel most comfortable by offering all therapy services through text-based, audio, or video messaging.
Ms. Johnson shares that texting has benefits and is helpful, keeping clients consistent and connected to their therapist. It’s a convenient modality when time is crunched. However, delays in returning texts may lead to a disjointed therapeutic connection. She adds, “I limit texting with my therapy clients for this reason and to also avoid miscommunicating due to the limitations of texting.”
To sign up, users complete a brief assessment to help match them to a therapist who best fits their needs and preferences. Then, it’s time to select a plan. Talkspace is one of the best online therapy platforms that take insurance . If you don’t have insurance coverage, there are also several self-pay plans available:
- Messaging therapy = $69 per week.
- Video and messaging therapy = $99 per week.
- Video and messaging therapy and workshops = $109 per week.
Before starting therapy, teens under 18 will need a parent to provide consent through a video and text message sent through the Talkspace app. After that, parents will not have access to the teen’s conversations with their therapist unless they choose to show them.
All therapy happens asynchronously through the web or mobile app; you don’t schedule any live sessions. Teens can send a text message or record an audio or video message to their therapist anytime. We like that this allows teens the freedom to participate in therapy whenever it works best for them.
Talkspace claims that therapists respond to messages five days per week, but we were curious how quickly those responses come through after a user sends their message. We called their customer support line and were connected immediately to a representative who helped answer our question. They said you can expect a response soon after sending the message as long as it is during the provider’s business hours. The representative couldn’t give an exact timeframe since it varies by provider, so it remains unclear.
Early research indicates that text-based therapy can be an effective intervention for teens experiencing mental health concerns. ( 7 ) Talkspace can be a helpful therapy platform for teens who are uncomfortable participating in live video or phone sessions.
What customers are saying
Reviewers on Trustpilot offer mixed reviews for Talkspace. The positive reviews highlight the connections users make with their therapists. However, there are more one-star ratings than five-star, with billing issues being a common complaint.
Verified Trustpilot reviewer Chris E. describes their experience with their therapist. “My therapist is so authentic and intuitive. She knows how to put my mind at ease by asking probing questions that make me think critically about my experiences. I have learned to reconstruct aspects of my life that were causing me stress and anxiety. I’m a work in progress, and she reminds me to give myself grace as I try to heal.”
“My therapist listened and guided me at my tempo. She offered several resources for assistance and has been my advocate.”
Lorraine W., Verified Trustpilot Reviewer
Trustpilot user Joan T. comments on their disappointment in the platform and inability to choose their therapist: “I like the fact that it is virtual face-to-face counseling, so it is easier to schedule. It is very easy to log into your session. I do not find the site user-friendly if you want to change counselors, nor did it give me an option of counselors to choose from.”
Specs
| Price | $0 to $109 per week |
| Insurance | Yes |
| Session type | Text, audio, video, workshops |
| Platforms | Online, mobile app |
| Ages | 13 to 17 years old |
Best online therapy that offers medication management for teens: Sesame
Key product features
What you should know
Sesame is a telehealth marketplace that provides access to licensed medical and mental health providers in all 50 states.
- You can get all your telehealth needs in one place, including medical visits, urgent care, therapy, psychiatry, weight loss, and more.
- Sesame does not accept insurance. Instead, prices are based on provider, location, and type of service.
- If you sign up for a Sesame membership, you’ll receive service discounts.
- Video and in-person appointments are available.
Why we like Sesame as best for medication management
Statistics show that 9.3% of youth ages 5-17 take medication as part of their mental health treatment plan. ( 8 ) These medications can be incredibly beneficial for children and teens, helping reduce symptoms and improve function at school, home, and in social settings. ( 9 ) Sesame meets the needs of these individuals by providing a vast network of independent mental health professionals qualified to prescribe medications.
Because Sesame is available regardless of insurance coverage, anyone can use its services. When you schedule an appointment, you pay the provider directly through Stripe. You can check with your plan to see if reimbursement is available if you have insurance. Additionally, Sesame is eligible for payment through HSA/FSA.
While you can book appointments without it, Sesame offers a membership for $8.25 per month. The membership includes free lab tests and a $10 discount on video therapy sessions, prescription refills, medical and dental visits, and some testing procedures. Sesame also partners with Costco to provide Costco members with unique perks and discounts.
You may want to consider that the providers do not work for Sesame. Before scheduling, you will need to research the providers available to ensure you feel comfortable with their qualifications. However, you can find a brief provider bio and patient reviews on each provider’s Sesame profile.
Booking appointments through Sesame’s website felt straightforward. It used my location to automatically show licensed providers near me. I had difficulty finding providers in my area through other online platforms, so I was happy to see plenty of options.
However, I was quickly hit with a pop-up that required me to enter my address to continue exploring the website. It felt a little disappointing that I needed to provide my contact information before I was sure if I wanted to use Sesame’s services.
Each individual provider sets their own prices. When you browse appointments, they’re clearly listed on the booking page along with their availability. Without a membership, we found sessions ranged from $32 to over $400, depending on the type of service and provider.
Throughout our research on mental health services, we’ve read many reviews about individuals who have struggled to get in with a provider promptly. We didn’t find that to be a barrier with Sesame. Most providers had same-day appointment availability. You even have the option to filter by who has availability within the next two hours if you need immediate mental health care or a prescription refill.
What customers are saying
With over 1,500 reviews on Trustpilot, Sesame earns a 4.2-star average rating. Reviewers describe receiving excellent service from providers and often mention the convenience of accessing care anywhere.
Maily Cordoba is a verified Trustpilot user who has been using Sesame for years because of the high-quality service: “Since the first time I tried Sesame a couple of years ago, my experience has been beyond my expectations. It’s easy to schedule, provides many affordable options, and you receive great service and care. I completely recommend anyone give it a try. You will not regret it.”
Janet C., Trustpilot reviewer, could receive care and refill prescriptions even while away from home. “This was a great experience. I signed up and chose an appointment for 2:45 pm. The physician was on camera exactly at 2:45 pm. I didn’t have to wait. He confirmed certain info, and within 10 minutes, we were done. I’m traveling, so he sent my prescription to the CVS in my area. CVS sent me a text confirming my prescription, and within 45 minutes, I received another notice that my prescription was filled. How cool was that! It was a wonderful experience. I will be calling on Sesame again.”
Unfortunately, a few reviewers experienced problems with getting their prescriptions filled or refilled by the provider they worked with. The overwhelmingly positive reviews may isolate this to a few providers or incidents.
Trustpilot reviewer Shaun says, “It was all good until the doctor never sent my prescription in like he said he would. Customer service on the weekends is nonexistent despite what the marketing says.”
Specs
| Price | Varies by provider, session type, and location |
| Insurance | No |
| Session type | Video, phone, in-person |
| Platforms | Online |
| Ages | Varies by provider |
Best online therapy for psychiatry for teens: Talkiatry
Key product features
What you should know
Talkiatry’s online platform delivers psychiatry services for individuals five years old and older. Psychiatrists are specially trained in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions through medication management.
- Talkiatry specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry.
- You can check your insurance eligibility on Talkiatry’s website, but you must contact your insurance plan to verify visit costs.
- You pay per visit, so you can discontinue or take a break from treatment at any time without being tied to a monthly fee.
- If you feel you can benefit from taking medication to treat a mental health condition, then Talkiatry can be an excellent option for online care.
Why we like Talkiatry as best for psychiatry
Talkiatry provides teens a safe and secure place to share their concerns with a psychiatrist. We found it especially helpful that Talkiatry providers are specifically trained in child and adolescent psychiatry. Additional specialties include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and PTSD, which are some of the most common disorders among teens.
If you’re unsure what you’re experiencing, Talkiatry therapists are qualified to diagnose mental health conditions based on what they learn through your telepsychiatry visits. They can also prescribe and manage medications.
A common concern is whether online mental health treatment is truly effective, especially for some of the more severe conditions often treated through psychiatry. Research shows that telepsychiatry can lead to powerful and clinically significant improvements in individuals receiving treatment. ( 10 )
Talkiatry accepts insurance from many commercial insurance plans, and you can quickly check to see if you’re covered. However, you must contact your insurance plan directly to learn more about your costs for online psychiatry visits. Unfortunately, Talkiatry doesn’t currently offer a self-pay option if you’re not covered by insurance.
You must complete an online assessment, which takes about 10-15 minutes to get started. Based on what you shared in your evaluation, you’ll be immediately paired with a psychiatrist. If you don’t connect well with your provider, you can request a new one anytime by calling or emailing Talkiatry.
Visits are conducted virtually through video sessions. Your first visit will be 60 minutes, but follow-up visits are typically only 30 minutes. Like many other online therapy services, you can message your provider with questions between sessions.
Unlike many subscription services, Talkiatry is billed per session. You can pause or discontinue treatment at any time and resume it whenever you’re ready.
Talkiatry only offers therapy services in conjunction with medication management. If you’re not an appropriate candidate for medication treatment or if you only want talk therapy, you will need to seek care elsewhere. However, Talkiatry says its psychiatrists will assist you in finding the care you need outside of their services.
What customers are saying
Considering that Talkiatry earns meager ratings on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau is worth considering. Like bad reviews we’ve seen with other companies, most complaints mention billing and technical issues as their source of frustration. We’ve found positive reviews from customers who have received exceptional service from their psychiatrists.
Shay Hammond shares their positive experience as a verified Trustpilot user: “I have been using Talkiatry for almost a year now, and it has been amazing from day one. It was incredibly easy to get an appointment online, and I could see a doctor quickly. My doctor is absolutely wonderful. She is warm and kind listens, doesn’t want to shove more medicine on you if unnecessary, and cares about your total health. I have been lucky that it’s all been covered by my insurance, which handles all of that for me, so I have only had to pay co-pays. I definitely recommend them!”
“I can’t believe all the bad reviews,” writes Trustpilot customer Rachel.
“I couldn’t ask for a better, more attentive psychiatrist. He knows what I need before I do. On top of that, I have a therapist through Talkiatry who is equally as excellent. I like them both so much that I changed insurance plans when I learned Talkiatry didn’t take my new insurance. I must have gotten really lucky because I wouldn’t trade them for the world. Fantastic is an understatement.”
Rachel, Verified Trustpilot Reviewer
Trustpilot reviewer Angel Hernandez is disappointed in how long it can take to connect with a provider through the patient portal: “My psychiatrist is amazing. What’s not amazing is the fact that you can’t call them directly. You have to go through the patient portal, and it can take them three days to respond to you. Waiting three or more days to respond to a question can be dangerous. You can call Talkiatry and have them send your doctor a message, but then it makes you feel like you’re bothering your doctor by having the company contact him directly. I just wish there was a direct line to my doctor instead of using the patient portal.”
Specs
| Price | Varies by insurance |
| Insurance | Yes |
| Session type | Video |
| Platforms | Online, third-party mobile app |
| Ages | 5+ years old |
Best online therapy for younger teens: Amwell
Key product features
What you should know
Amwell’s telehealth services can connect you with doctors, therapists, psychiatrists, and other specialists to help you get care for a wide range of medical and mental health needs.
- Many online therapy platforms will only see adolescents ages 13 years and older, but Amwell can treat children as young as 10 years old.
- Cost will depend on insurance coverage, type of service, and provider qualifications.
- You can pay out of pocket if you don’t have insurance coverage.
- You can review provider biographies and reviews before booking an appointment.
Why we like Amwell as best for younger adolescents
Amwell’s therapy services are unique in that the therapists can treat children as young as 10 years old. Many of the online therapy platforms we tested could only treat adolescents ages 13 years and older. Studies show that half of all mental health disorders start by age 14, and early intervention can have significant benefits for children and their families. ( 11 , 12 )
Amwell’s telehealth platform connects you with providers based on your location, insurance coverage, and type of services you’re seeking. If don’t have insurance coverage, you can pay out-of-pocket for services.
We didn’t find the Amwell website as straightforward as other online therapy platforms. We had a lot of questions about how we would find a therapist and attend appointments. However, it felt easier to navigate once we created an account on the treatment platform. Registration took less than a minute to complete. For teen therapy, a parent must create an account for their child.
During the registration process, I got a message saying my insurance couldn’t be contacted, so verification would be completed when I started my visit. Admittedly, I felt uneasy not knowing my exact coverage before scheduling an appointment.
However, the rest of the process to find a therapist and book an appointment went smoothly. When we selected adolescent therapy as our appointment type, we could schedule an appointment by date or based on provider choice. We liked that we could review the therapist profile, appointment cost, and patient ratings before scheduling a visit.
Therapy visits are typically 45 minutes long and conducted via video or phone call. You can attend sessions on a computer or through the mobile app.
What customers are saying
On Trustpilot, 64% of reviews give five stars.
“I am impressed with the therapist I see through Amwell. She has been helping me a great deal. I look forward to our meetings and appreciate the quality and effectiveness of the homework assigned. She is well-versed in PTSD and depression. I am grateful to have found her.”
“customer LW,” Verified Trustpilot Reviewer
Amwell helped Trustpilot user Jennifer Johnson-Ament start their telehealth experience on a positive note: “This was my first experience with telemedicine, and I am thoroughly impressed! I could set up my account, verify insurance, and have a virtual visit within ten minutes.”
Amwell customers with negative experiences cite billing and insurance coverage issues.
In a Trustpilot review, Michele L. shares, “The only reason they are getting two stars is because the physicians and therapists I have utilized have been wonderful. Billing has not been. I am supposed to have a $0 co-pay, but I keep having issues with it. Amwell can’t correct it even after numerous three-way calls between them and my insurance.”
Specs
| Price | Varies by insurance |
| Insurance | Yes |
| Session type | Video |
| Platforms | Online, mobile app |
| Ages | 10 to 17 years old |
Best online therapy for teens and families: Thriveworks
Key product features
What you should know
Thriveworks connects you with a local mental health professional who can provide therapy or psychiatry services based on your needs. You can find providers specializing in child, teen, couples, or family therapy.
- Detailed provider bios allow teens to choose a provider who matches their needs and preferences well.
- Most insurance copays fall between $0 and $50.
- Thriveworks is an excellent option for families who want to work through their concerns together.
Why we like Thriveworks as best for families
Thriveworks’ network of providers includes therapists who specialize in family therapy. Being able to attend therapy together is significant since studies show teens are more likely to stick with and complete treatment when they attend as a family. ( 13 ) Having family members present for therapy demonstrates a natural source of support and understanding for the teen.
“It’s not a perfect science, but parents and siblings who engage in therapy show unconditional support for the person attending therapy, which can lead to positive outcomes.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
To find a Thriveworks provider near you, select the type of therapy you’d like to receive and search by location. Thriveworks has offices in 49 states and D.C. Unfortunately, if you live in Vermont, you will not find any clinics in the directory.
While four locations are listed in my state, I couldn’t find any providers available for any type of therapy. When I spoke with customer service, they explained that this indicated all appointment slots are currently booked for providers in my area. They said I could expect more appointments to open within the next few days.
I appreciated that they offered to monitor appointment availability and call me when they saw openings. However, when I checked back days later, I still could not find any available providers, which made me wonder how challenging it would be for me to book follow-up appointments if I ever got in with a therapist. This issue may be unique to my location, as I found many providers when I searched a nearby state.
Before selecting a provider, you can view their in-depth profile to learn more about their experience and specialties. Additionally, you can see all the available appointments they offer. I was impressed to find providers who offered same-day, evening, and weekend appointments.
Many therapists offer families the option to attend sessions in person or online. Family schedules are busy, so we appreciate the flexibility in scheduling. You access online sessions through a secure link, so you only need a device with an internet connection, a camera, and a microphone.
Finally, signing up for a Thriveworks account is very easy. You simply provide your email address, and you have immediate access to your dashboard. The online platform allows you to see appointments, manage billing, find a provider, and engage in wellness activities.
What customers are saying
Thriveworks has low ratings on Trustpilot and Better Business Bureau. Most reviewers acknowledge that the therapists are excellent, but they’ve had billing and customer service issues.
Zvon Eller is a Trustpilot reviewer who gave Thriveworks five stars, saying, “Thriveworks has been the best source of therapy I have ever had. I initially had a great therapist I was able to talk to, which is part of my issue—talking. I decided to stop therapy, but I realized that I needed more. I was initially doing it remotely but decided to do it in person instead. I thought if they had one great therapist, they might have more. I was right. My second therapist was also very effective. If it wasn’t for my two therapists, I don’t know how I’d be doing. Actually, I do know, but it’s not as good. I highly recommend Thriveworks.”
Specs
| Price | $0 to $50 copay |
| Insurance | Yes |
| Session type | Video, phone, in-person |
| Platforms | Online |
| Ages | 0+ years old |
How we test online therapy for teens
Every Fortune teletherapy review is built on comprehensive evaluations by reviewers with first-hand mental health experience. Mental health experts then review the information to ensure accuracy. All of the claims are backed by scientific evidence. Read more about Fortune’s teletherapy testing methodology for more information on each testing criterion.
Therapist quality—30%
A top-notch teletherapy service should feel both personal and professional, not impersonal or generic. It should connect users with certified and experienced therapists, not unqualified individuals. Here’s what we look for:
- Expertise
- Personalization
- Interaction quality
Accessibility and convenience—30%
Teletherapy directly impacts an individual’s ability to seek, engage with, and benefit from mental health services. Whether it’s a scheduling issue, lack of transportation, or being physically unable to see a therapist in person, everyone’s situation is different. Teletherapy is here to help change that. With the convenience of teletherapy being a significant advantage, we evaluate:
- Ease of use
- Availability
- Platform reliability
Cost and value—20%
Unfortunately, mental health services are not a financial privilege for most people who don’t have insurance that covers it. In an era where mental health care is more necessary, yet often more expensive than ever, assessing the cost-effectiveness of teletherapy services becomes not just relevant but essential.
Here’s what we factor into a teletherapy’s cost and value rating:
- Pricing transparency
- Insurance and coverage
- Value for money
Support and resources—10%
Good mental health habits don’t end after each session. It’s a constant task we must continue to practice. Access to additional support and resources is invaluable for clients seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health issues, learn additional coping strategies, or continue therapeutic work in between sessions. Beyond the therapy sessions, additional support can enhance the therapeutic experience.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Supplementary materials
- Customer support
- Aftercare
Privacy and security—10%
While teletherapy is an incredibly convenient way to seek mental health, it poses some risks. Maintaining client confidentiality and data security is paramount in teletherapy. As clients entrust teletherapy services with their mental health information, stories, and vulnerabilities, the responsibility of these platforms to protect such information is paramount.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Compliance with HIPAA and data protection laws
- Encryption and security measures
- Anonymity options
What to consider when choosing an online therapist for teens
Finding the right therapist for your teen can feel like an overwhelming task, and finding a good fit may take some trial and error. We’ve outlined some important considerations below to help make the therapist search easier for you.
Price
Cost remains one of the biggest barriers to receiving mental health care, so this can be a good starting point for finding therapy for your teen. ( 14 ) Consider contacting your insurance company before you start your search. They can help you understand what type of treatment, if any, is covered under your benefits. Additionally, they may be able to direct you to preferred providers or platforms to help you save time searching.
Another consideration is whether you prefer to enroll in a subscription plan for ongoing support or take it one session at a time. Some platforms bill for monthly services with a set number of sessions per week, while others require no commitment.
Session format
Your teen will be more likely to participate in therapy sessions if they are delivered in a comfortable format. Talk to your teen about how they’d prefer to communicate with their provider—video, phone, live chat, or messaging—and if they’d like access to any additional resources through their therapy platform.
Scheduling
If your teen is interested in live sessions with their therapist, scheduling will be essential to your selection process. Most teens attend school during standard business hours and may have practices and activities outside of those hours. You may need to find a provider who offers evening or weekend appointment times.
Therapist connection
Developing a strong connection with a therapist can be vital to seeing success in therapy. Teens should feel comfortable enough with their providers to speak openly and honestly about their experiences and challenges. Whenever possible, invite your teen to review provider profiles and participate in meet-and-greet conversations so they can help decide who feels like a good fit for them.
Who would benefit from online therapy?
Adolescence can be a time of stress, change, and self-discovery. It’s a critical time to prioritize mental health, and any teen can benefit from participating in therapy, even if they aren’t outwardly showing signs of mental health concerns. However, if you notice any of the following, it may be an indicator that it’s an appropriate time to seek therapy for your teen:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, or fearful
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Withdrawing from friends or family
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Increased anger or defiance
- Decrease in school performance
- Alcohol or substance abuse
What to expect from online teen therapy
Online therapy can provide teens with support and guidance to help them work through challenging experiences and emotions.
Therapists and teens will start by engaging in conversations to help build rapport, identify areas for improvement, and develop therapy goals. These conversations may happen through video conferences, phone calls, messaging, or any combination.
Counselors create a safe space for teens to talk openly about their experiences and struggles as therapy continues. They also help teens learn more about their emotions, behaviors, thoughts, and choices. This increased self-awareness can lead to growth in communication, coping, and decision-making skills.
There’s often a focus on helping the teen learn new skills, such as mindfulness, positive self-talk, and calm breathing. Additionally, they’ll better understand how to lean into their strengths while building confidence and courage.
FAQs
Does online therapy for teens provide medication?
To receive medication management, you must choose a platform that offers psychiatry services alongside therapy. Our roundup outlined some of our top choices for online therapy services that provide medication management.
Is online therapy for teens effective?
Therapy can provide a safe space for teens to discuss their struggles and express their feelings. Online therapy services can be a convenient way for teens to engage in mental health support in a format that feels familiar to them. Additionally, research indicates teletherapy can be as effective as in-person therapy at reducing teens’ mental health symptoms. ( 15 )
Can parents participate in online therapy for teens?
Parents can often attend part or all of the first therapy session to meet the therapist and provide consent for treatment. While they may receive periodic updates after that, parents should allow them to engage in therapy independently since a parent’s presence may make a teen feel less comfortable opening up to their therapist.
Does insurance cover online therapy for teens?
Insurance coverage for online therapy for teens varies based on individual benefits, type of services, and provider qualifications. It’s also important to note that only specific online therapy platforms accept insurance.
How much does online teen therapy cost?
Online teen therapy costs depend on many factors, such as location, insurance coverage, type of therapy, provider qualifications, and whether the therapy platform bills per session or offers a subscription plan.
Our experts
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC
Rychel is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Kansas. She owns a private practice specializing in anxiety treatment and social skills development. Rychel also enjoys extensive road trips and spending time with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Corey Jungwirth, NBC-HWC
Fortune Recommends Staff Writer
About Author
Corey Jungwirth is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach with over 11 years of experience working in health and wellness. Additionally, she has earned certifications as a Behavioral Health Coach and Lifestyle Medicine Coach. For over five years, Corey has enjoyed combining her wellness knowledge with her passion for writing. When she’s not writing about it, Corey enjoys engaging in her own health by running, taking Peloton classes, and playing soccer and volleyball. She also enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and being outdoors as often as possible. Corey lives in a cozy home in the woods in Wisconsin with her two kids, husband, and dog, Kona.