How Much Does BetterHelp Cost (Australia)? The Pricing Of Online Therapy Sessions
BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that serves individuals around the world, including in Australia. Before getting started with such a platform, many people have questions about the cost. Keep reading to learn more about BetterHelp’s online mental health services and how BetterHelp’s pricing compares to that of traditional therapy providers in Australia.
How much are in-person therapy sessions in Australia?
According to the Australian Psychological Society (APS), the APS National Schedule of Suggested Fees are $318 for a 46- to 60-minute individual therapy session in a therapist’s office in 2025–2026. The APS notes that this is just a suggested fee and that independent psychologists can set their own rate.
Keep in mind that the cost of in-person therapy sessions can vary widely based on several factors, such as location and therapist experience. For example, a therapist in Sydney or Melbourne may charge more than a therapist in a smaller city or a rural area. Also consider that Master’s-level therapists may offer lower rates than psychologists do. In addition, note that Medicare rebates may help lower in-person therapy costs for eligible Australians.
How much does BetterHelp cost Australia residents?
Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. The BetterHelp cost can be more affordable than the cost of in-person therapy without independent health insurance coverage or another type of assistance.
What does online therapy with BetterHelp include?
A BetterHelp subscription allows individuals to participate in a weekly session with a qualified therapist via audio, video, live chat, or a combination of these, depending on which format the individual prefers. For example, video sessions allow people to still receive face-to-face contact with a credentialed mental health counselor. Or, the live chat option may be appealing to people who prefer to express their thoughts and emotions in writing.
BetterHelp also allows clients to reach out to their therapist at any time through in-app messaging, and their therapist will respond as soon as they are able. This feature may be helpful on days when individuals experience emotional challenges that they want to communicate in the moment instead of waiting until their next therapy session.
Additional tools and resources that come with a BetterHelp subscription
A monthly subscription to BetterHelp also includes the ability to take advantage of a variety of additional, optional tools. For instance, online journaling prompts and worksheets support clients in writing about their mental health journey. Also, clients can join group webinars, sometimes called “groupinars,” to learn more about various mental health support topics, and a variety of different weekly support groups are also available to subscribers.
How does BetterHelp verify therapists?
BetterHelp has a team that verifies that each therapist on the platform has met the educational requirements needed to practice therapy in their country and region. The team verifies each therapist’s license with the competent authority, such as the Australian Register of Counsellors & Psychotherapists or the Psychology Board of Australia for psychologists. The team also verifies that all BetterHelp therapists have at least three years of clinical experience, although most providers on the platform have more experience than this.
The effectiveness of online therapy vs. in-person therapy for mental health
In recent years, numerous peer-reviewed studies have suggested that online therapy services can often be effective for addressing a variety of mental disorders. For example, one systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may often be even more effective than in-person therapy for symptoms of depression.
Takeaway
How much does BetterHelp cost Australia residents?
In Australia, BetterHelp costs between $90 and $120 per week, billed weekly or every four weeks. Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.
What is included in a BetterHelp subscription?
In addition to one weekly session, BetterHelp users can contact their therapist at any time via in-app messaging, and their therapist will reply as soon as they can. Clients can also take advantage of additional optional tools, like online journaling prompts, worksheets, virtual classes, and support groups.
Are all BetterHelp therapists credentialed?
All BetterHelp therapists are fully qualified to provide evidence-based mental health care. BetterHelp verifies the credentials of every therapist on the platform. In addition, all therapists have at least three years of clinical experience.
Is BetterHelp more affordable than in-person therapy sessions?
BetterHelp can be more affordable than in-person therapy without insurance coverage. However, costs can vary by location and therapist credentials and experience.
What mental health conditions do BetterHelp therapists treat?
BetterHelp therapists can treat a diverse array of symptoms. Research suggests that online therapy can often be effective for addressing symptoms of conditions like depression, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder, among other disorders. Also, individuals don’t have to have a diagnosed mental illness to benefit from online therapy at BetterHelp. Please note that your BetterHelp therapist won't be able to make any official diagnosis, to fulfill any court order, or prescribe medication.
If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.
Is there free therapy available in Australia?
The Australian government funds Medicare Mental Health, which offers free mental health services. No referral is needed to begin receiving support from Medicare Mental Health.
How much does online therapy cost in Australia?
The cost of online therapy in Australia can depend on many factors, such as location and therapist credentials. To receive online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $90 and $120 per week, billed weekly or every four weeks.
What if I can't afford BetterHelp therapy?
While the cost of BetterHelp (compared to other online platforms and in-person therapy) tends to be more affordable, the platform also offers financial aid to those who qualify. You can contact the BetterHelp support team for more information. Online counseling can be a convenient and effective alternative to in-person sessions, and the sign-up process for BetterHelp is quick and easy–just a brief questionnaire prior to being matched with a therapist and attending your first session.
Most people can be matched with a suitable provider within 48 hours, depending on therapist availability, and they can attend sessions via video call, audio call, or online chat. All they need is a personal device and a strong internet connection. Users can switch therapists at any time, enabling them to connect with a different therapist, counselor, or social worker who may be better suited to address their mental health goals if needed. Online therapy can help people develop healthy coping strategies and work through mental health challenges.
Does insurance cover therapy in Australia?
In many cases, Australians can receive up to 10 free therapy sessions with Australian therapists through Medicare. They may also receive rebates for psychiatric care through individual health insurance plans.
How to get a mental health care plan in Australia?
To get a mental health care plan in Australia, you must be diagnosed with a mental health disorder. It’s recommended to book an appointment with your GP to discuss your mental health. If they diagnose you with a mental health condition, they may refer you to a mental health professional for treatment. Under the Better Access Initiative, you may receive up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions each calendar year.
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