BetterHelp offers subscription-based virtual therapy with flexible communication options (messaging, chat, phone, video) at $70–$100/week, but has limited insurance acceptance and no psychiatry services.
SonderMind provides comprehensive care including therapy, psychiatry, and medication management through a hybrid virtual/in-person model with broad insurance coverage across most major plans.
Inclusivity and specialized care differ. BetterHelp offers over 20 clinical specialties with teen services available through a sister site, while SonderMind provides 40+ specialized areas including LGBTQ+ affirming care, culturally-sensitive support for BIPOC communities, and dedicated services for teens, seniors, and children.
Access speed differs significantly. Therapist matching via BetterHelp happens within a few hours to a couple of days, while SonderMind matches within 48 hours with first appointments typically within a week.
Rula is another option to consider. Rula combines therapy and psychiatry across a network of 21,000+ providers, accepting most major insurance plans and offering virtual and in-person care with clear upfront costs — often around $15 per session with insurance.
Getting the support you deserve through online therapy shouldn't feel like another obstacle between you and the care you need. Yet with so many options available, choosing between services like BetterHelp and SonderMind requires understanding real differences — from insurance coverage and cost to the types of treatment offered and how quickly you can start.
In this guide, we'll compare these two platforms across features, pricing, clinical outcomes, and accessibility. Whether you need flexible messaging-based therapy or comprehensive care that includes psychiatry, understanding what each service does best can help you make a confident decision about your mental health.
You could also consider Rula when exploring mental healthcare options. Rula works with a nationwide network of over 21,000 licensed providers, accepts most major insurance plans, and offers both therapy and psychiatry through virtual and in-person appointments. With insurance, many patients pay around $15 per session.
BetterHelp vs. SonderMind: Differences at a glance
While both platforms connect you with licensed mental health professionals online, BetterHelp and SonderMind take different approaches to insurance, pricing, services, and more. Below, we break down the core differences to help you determine which platform is the better match as you find a therapist for your needs.
Average cost per session:
BetterHelp: $70-$100 per week for a subscription; average copay is $23 per session
SonderMind: Self-pay rates range from $45 to $183 per session; copay varies by plan
Number of providers:
BetterHelp: 35,000 therapists nationwide
SonderMind: 12,500+ licensed providers nationwide
Modes of communication:
BetterHelp: In-app messaging, live chat, live phone sessions, and live video sessions
SonderMind: Video sessions, in-person sessions, and phone sessions (for self-pay patients only)
Services offered:
BetterHelp: Individual therapy; couples and teen therapy are available through sister companies
SonderMind: Therapy, psychiatry, medication management, family therapy, couples therapy, and group counseling
Insurance acceptance:
BetterHelp: Partnered with major insurance carriers in 17 states
SonderMind: In-network with most major plans, including Medicare and Medicare Advantage; does not accept Medicaid
States covered:
BetterHelp: All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
SonderMind: All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Number of specialties offered:
BetterHelp: 20+ clinical specialties
SonderMind: 40+ specialized areas of care
Inclusivity and patient focus:
BetterHelp: No dedicated inclusivity programs publicly outlined, though patients can specify identity preferences when selecting providers
SonderMind: Offers integrated services for teens, seniors, and children, plus dedicated resources for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities
Virtual-only or virtual + in-person availability:
BetterHelp: Virtual-only platform
SonderMind: Hybrid model offering both virtual and in-person care
The care you need, when you need it
Learn how Rula can support your mental health journey
BetterHelp at a glance
Founded in 2013, BetterHelp is a subscription-based online therapy platform connecting patients with a network of 35,000 licensed therapists across all 50 states. Sessions are delivered virtually through messaging, live chat, phone, or video, with subscriptions ranging from $70 to $100 per week and including one live session plus unlimited messaging.
To get started, you complete a questionnaire and are typically matched with a therapist within a few hours to a couple of days. You can switch providers at any time at no additional cost.
SonderMind at a glance
Founded in 2014, SonderMind is a mental health platform that offers both virtual and in-person care through its network of over 12,500 licensed providers. The platform provides comprehensive services, including therapy, psychiatry, and medication management, across all 50 states.
SonderMind operates primarily on an insurance-first model and is in-network with most major plans, including Medicare. For those paying out-of-pocket, self-pay rates vary by state and session length, ranging from $45 to $183. After filling out an intake form, patients are typically matched with providers within 48 hours and can schedule their first appointment within a week.
Rula at a glance
Founded in 2019, Rula is a mental health platform that helps people find licensed therapists covered by insurance and schedule care through its platform. It connects patients with a nationwide network of 21,000+ licensed providers across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with options for both telehealth (live video via Zoom) and in-person therapy at provider-operated offices.
Rula offers individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, child therapy (for ages 5+), teen therapy, and psychiatry (medication management) for ages 13 and older. Patients can browse a curated list of in-network providers, filter by preferences like specialty and language, and book online, with Rula confirming an estimated out-of-pocket cost before the first appointment. Using insurance, patients typically pay about $15 per session (though costs can vary), and appointments are often available as soon as tomorrow.
Clinical outcomes and how they compare
When you're choosing a mental health platform, it helps to know whether it actually works. Understanding the clinical outcomes each service reports can help you see which platform has a track record of making a meaningful difference in people's mental health.
BetterHelp clinical outcomes
According to BetterHelp's 2024 outcomes data, 72% of BetterHelp patients experience a reduction in symptoms. The data also shows that 69% achieve reliable improvement and 62% reach symptom remission.
SonderMind clinical outcomes
SonderMind focuses on measurement-based care, routinely tracking treatment progress with clinical assessments like the GAD-7 for anxiety and PHQ-9 for depression. This approach has yielded strong results, with 84% of patients seeing a measurable reduction in symptoms within two months. The platform's outcomes rank among the top 20% of global outpatient care centers, and 73% of patients continue treatment beyond the first two sessions.
Rula clinical outcomes
Rula also publishes outcomes data focused on symptom improvement and provider fit. Across the platform, 93% of patients report feeling better, 94% feel comfortable with their provider, and 98% say they found a provider who met their needs — results that outpace national benchmarks by more than 10% on average.
Cost and insurance coverage
BetterHelp operates primarily as a subscription service with limited insurance acceptance, while SonderMind functions as an insurance-first platform with broad in-network coverage. Learn more about how each platform handles insurance and what you can expect to pay below.
Insurance plans accepted
BetterHelp works with select insurance carriers in 17 states, but the specific plans and details are not publicly listed.
SonderMind, on the other hand, is in-network with many major insurance plans, including:
Aetna
Anthem
BlueCross BlueShield
Humana
Kaiser
TRICARE West
United Healthcare
The platform also works with employee assistance programs (EAP) and accepts Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
If you’re also considering Rula, it’s built to make using insurance simpler: therapists on Rula are in-network with many major plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Kaiser Permanente Optum Behavioral Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare — and Rula provides a personalized cost estimate before your first appointment.
Out-of-pocket costs (with insurance)
For the limited plans BetterHelp accepts, patients can expect an average copay of about $23 per session. Insurance availability remains highly dependent on your plan and location.
With SonderMind, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific insurance plan, including your copay and deductible. Charges are applied after your insurance company processes a claim, which typically takes 30 to 90 days.
HSA/FSA eligibility
Both BetterHelp and SonderMind make it easy to pay for care using pre-tax funds. The platforms accept health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) cards for payment, providing another way to manage the cost of your mental healthcare.
Self-pay pricing
BetterHelp's subscription model costs $70-$100 per week, billed either weekly or every four weeks. This subscription includes one live session weekly (available via video, phone, or chat) and unlimited messaging with your therapist. Discounted rates may be available for some patients based on financial need.
SonderMind's self-pay pricing varies by session type and location:
Intake sessions: $90-$183
30-minute sessions: $45-$79
45-minute sessions: $70-$104
60-minute sessions: $85-$154
Mental health services offered
The range of services a platform offers determines whether you can get comprehensive care for your specific needs in one place. Understanding what each platform provides helps ensure you choose a service that can support your complete mental health journey.
Treatment approaches offered by BetterHelp
BetterHelp's care is centered on individual talk therapy using evidence-based approaches. While the platform does not offer psychiatry, its therapists are equipped to help with a wide range of common mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, OCD, and more.
Common therapy modalities include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Mindfulness-based approaches (e.g., MBCT)
Psychodynamic therapy
Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT)
Motivational interviewing (MI)
Exposure-based therapies for anxiety and OCD (e.g., ERP)
Person-centered/humanistic therapy
Attachment-based and narrative therapies
Treatment approaches offered by SonderMind
SonderMind provides comprehensive services, integrating therapy and psychiatry in one platform. Its measurement-based care approach allows providers to track progress and tailor treatment plans using clinical assessments.
Common therapy approaches:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic approaches
Humanistic therapy
Family therapy approaches
Trauma-informed care
Sondermind also provides medication management through MDs and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Medication management is available as a standalone service or can be combined with therapy.
Treatment approaches offered by Rula
With a nationwide network covering 180+ clinical specialties and evidence-based modalities, Rula connects you with providers who understand your unique circumstances and treatment goals.
Therapeutic modalities available through Rula's network include:
Trauma-focused therapy, including EMDR and prolonged exposure
Internal family systems (IFS)) and attachment-based approaches
Couples and family therapies, such as the Gottman Method and emotionally focused therapy (EFT))
Mindfulness-based and somatic therapies
Providers on Rula address diverse mental health concerns — from anxiety and depression to trauma and PTSD, ADHD, relationship difficulties, parenting stress, and beyond.
Beyond talk therapy, Rula also provides medication management through licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) for individuals ages 13 and up.
Inclusivity and specialized care
Finding a provider who understands your unique background, identity, and experiences is essential for effective therapy. Inclusivity factors like LGBTQ+ affirming care and cultural competency can significantly impact your comfort and treatment outcomes.
BetterHelp inclusivity and specialization overview
Licensure types: BetterHelp's network consists of licensed therapists and mental health professionals. The platform does not include psychiatrists.
Specializations offered: The platform covers over 20 clinical specialties, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and parenting issues. Teen counseling for ages 13 to 19 is available through its sister site, Teen Counseling.
Languages available: The platform's international presence suggests some language diversity, but a specific list of supported languages is not provided.
Inclusivity factors: BetterHelp provides LGBTQIA+ community counseling through a subsidiary and lets you specify preferences for therapists from particular backgrounds when you're being matched.
SonderMind inclusivity and specialization overview
Licensure types: SonderMind's network includes licensed therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists (MDs and DOs), and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs).
Specializations offered: The platform offers care in over 40 specialized areas, including trauma, ADHD, and OCD. It also provides dedicated services for teens, seniors, and children.
Languages available: Specific information on language diversity among providers is not documented.
Inclusivity factors: SonderMind offers LGBTQ+ affirming care with clinicians trained in LGBTQ-focused approaches and provides dedicated resources for BIPOC communities.
The care you need, when you need it
Learn how Rula can support your mental health journey
Platform availability and access
How quickly you can access care and the logistics of attending sessions can significantly impact your ability to start and maintain treatment. If you’re considering Rula, it’s available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with appointment-based care offered via live video (Zoom) and in-person therapy at provider-operated offices.
How access works with BetterHelp
States served: BetterHelp is available throughout the U.S., with localized markets in the UK, Australia, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Matching process: After you complete an intake questionnaire, BetterHelp matches you with a therapist based on your responses. The process can take up to two days. You can also switch providers at any time.
Session formats: All sessions are virtual, with flexible options including in-app messaging, live chat, live phone calls, and live video. You can use different formats at different times based on your preference.
Scheduling: Scheduling is flexible, as therapists set their own hours. You can often find availability for late-night, weekend, or holiday sessions by viewing a therapist's schedule and picking a time that works for you.
App/portal experience: The platform is available via a mobile app (iOS and Android) and website. It includes tools like a digital journal, goal and habit trackers, and worksheets to support your progress between sessions.
How access works with SonderMind
States served: SonderMind operates in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., though the availability of psychiatric practitioners can vary by state.
Matching process: You complete an intake form with your preferences and insurance details, and SonderMind matches you with at least two providers within 48 hours. You can typically schedule your first appointment within a week.
Session formats: SonderMind offers a hybrid model with both virtual video sessions and in-person appointments. Phone sessions are also available for self-pay patients.
Scheduling: The platform features direct scheduling, allowing you to select an appointment time directly from a provider's calendar. You can typically schedule sessions up to 24 hours in advance.
App/portal experience: The SonderMind mobile app serves as a wellness companion, offering self-guided meditations, AI-powered reflections, and progress tracking. You can also use it to manage appointments and communicate with your provider.
What each platform does best
Whether you prioritize flexible communication, fast access, comprehensive insurance coverage, or specific treatments, understanding each platform's advantages helps you find the right fit.
BetterHelp excels in:
Communication flexibility: Offers a unique combination of messaging, live chat, phone, and video sessions
Subscription simplicity: Provides predictable weekly or monthly pricing with a live session and unlimited messaging included
Large provider network: With 35,000 therapists, it offers extensive choice and availability
Ease of switching providers: Change therapists at any time for any reason at no extra cost
International availability: Serves all 50 U.S. states plus several international markets
SonderMind excels in:
Comprehensive insurance coverage: In-network with most major insurance plans, including Medicare
Integrated care services: Offers therapy, psychiatry, and medication management on a single platform
Hybrid care model: Provides the flexibility of both virtual and in-person sessions
Strong clinical outcomes: 84% of patients see symptom reduction, with outcomes ranking in the top 20% globally
Fast access to care: Matches patients with providers in under 48 hours, with first appointments scheduled within a week
Summary: Is BetterHelp or SonderMind right for you?
BetterHelp and SonderMind take different approaches to mental healthcare, which shapes everything from how you access services to what types of treatment you can receive. BetterHelp is a subscription-based, virtual-only platform with 35,000 therapists offering individual therapy through flexible communication methods. Its model provides predictable pricing and the ability to switch therapists easily, but it does not offer psychiatry, medication management, or in-person options, and its insurance acceptance is limited.
In contrast, SonderMind operates on an insurance-first, hybrid model that combines virtual and in-person care. Its network of 12,500+ providers offers comprehensive services, including therapy, psychiatry, and medication management. SonderMind is in-network with most major insurance plans, provides faster access to care, and uses a measurement-based approach to track outcomes.
You could also consider Rula as another option. Rula connects patients with a nationwide network of 21,000+ licensed providers for therapy and psychiatry, with appointments available via live video and in-person in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. With in-network coverage across many major insurance plans, upfront cost estimates before your first visit, and typical costs around $15 per session when using insurance, Rula can be a strong fit if you want comprehensive care with insurance support and fast access.
FAQs
How quickly can I be matched with a provider on BetterHelp vs. SonderMind?
BetterHelp typically matches you with a therapist within a few hours to a few days. SonderMind matches you with one or more providers within 48 hours, and you can typically schedule your first appointment within a week.
Can BetterHelp or SonderMind providers prescribe medication?
BetterHelp therapists cannot prescribe medication or provide psychiatric care, as the platform does not include psychiatrists in its network. SonderMind offers both therapy and psychiatry services, with psychiatric providers (MDs, DOs, and PMHNPs) who can evaluate symptoms, provide diagnoses, and prescribe medication as part of your treatment plan.
Why choose Rula for quality of care?
Rula reports strong outcomes, with 93% of patients saying they feel better about their symptoms after receiving care. It also offers a large network of 21,000+ licensed providers across 180+ specialties, with therapy and psychiatry available via live video and in-person therapy at provider offices. Rula accepts many major insurance plans and provides an upfront cost estimate, with many patients paying around $15 per session with insurance.
Find care with Rula
Choosing the right mental health platform matters — it shapes your experience and your ability to make real progress. With Rula, getting started is straightforward: verify your insurance benefits in minutes, browse providers who match your specific needs and preferences, and see your estimated costs upfront before booking. Many patients can schedule their first appointment as soon as tomorrow, whether you're looking for therapy, psychiatry, or both.
When you're ready to move forward, Rula is here to guide you to care that works with your insurance and fits your life.
Rula Health
Rula’s editorial process
Rula’s editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
