SonderMind vs Thriveworks: Costs, therapists, and availability

Finding the right mental health platform shouldn't feel like a second job. Yet with so many options available, comparing costs, provider availability, and services across online therapy platforms can quickly become overwhelming — especially when you're already navigating the decision to seek online therapy.

SonderMind and Thriveworks are two platforms connecting people with therapy and psychiatry services nationwide. Both accept major insurance plans and offer flexible session formats, but they differ in network size, pricing, and how you access care. In this guide, we'll break down their features, costs, and strengths to help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

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, making it a strong option for online therapy that takes insurance.

SonderMind vs. Thriveworks: Differences at a glance

Here's a quick comparison of SonderMind and Thriveworks to help you see how they stack up — and if you want to find a therapist, you can also explore in-network options by specialty, availability, and location.

Average cost per session:

• SonderMind: Insurance copay of $0 to $55+; self-pay rates range from $45 to $183, depending on the session length and your state

• Thriveworks: Copays often range from $0 to $55; self-pay therapy sessions cost $160 to $240, and psychiatry appointments cost $210 to $375

Number of providers:

• SonderMind: 12,500+ licensed providers nationwide

• Thriveworks: 2,600+ clinicians

Modes of communication:

• SonderMind: Video, in-person, and phone (audio-only for self-pay patients)

• Thriveworks: Video sessions, in-person appointments, and messaging through a client portal

Services offered:

• SonderMind: Individual therapy, psychiatry, couples therapy, family therapy, and group counseling

• Thriveworks: Individual therapy, psychiatry and medication management, couples and marriage counseling, family therapy, and child and teen therapy

Insurance acceptance:

• SonderMind: In-network with most major plans, including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, United Healthcare, Medicare, and TRICARE West; it does not accept Medicaid

• Thriveworks: Accepts over 360 insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, and Tricare; it does not accept Medicaid

States covered:

• SonderMind: All 50 states for both therapy and psychiatry

• Thriveworks: Available in 49 states and Washington D.C.

Number of specialties offered:

• SonderMind: Over 40 specialized areas of care

• Thriveworks: Does not state a specific number but covers common needs like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma

Inclusivity and patient focus:

• SonderMind: Offers LGBTQ+ affirming care and teen and senior services

• Thriveworks: Provides LGBTQIA+ counseling and child and teen therapy for ages 0 to 17

Virtual-only or virtual + in-person availability:

• SonderMind: A hybrid model with both virtual and in-person sessions available

• Thriveworks: A hybrid model with over 340 physical office locations in addition to online therapy

SonderMind at a glance

Founded in 2014, SonderMind is a mental health platform that connects patients to a large network of over 12,500 licensed therapists and psychiatric providers. It operates in all 50 states, offering both virtual and in-person care. SonderMind focuses on matching you with a provider based on your specific needs, including your schedule, insurance plan, location, and treatment preferences. The platform positions itself as human-led care supplemented by technology, offering over 40 specialized areas of care for conditions like anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD.

SonderMind's matching process typically connects you with one or more providers within 48 hours, and most people have their first appointment scheduled in under two weeks. For those paying out-of-pocket, costs vary by state and session length, with intake sessions ranging from $90 to $183 and ongoing sessions from $45 to $154. The platform also includes a mobile app with self-guided resources, progress tracking, and daily reflections to support you between sessions.

Thriveworks at a glance

Thriveworks was founded in 2008 as a clinician-led mental health provider offering both therapy and psychiatry. Its network consists of over 2,600 clinicians practicing at more than 340 physical office locations across the country. Thriveworks provides in-person care and online therapy in 49 states and Washington, D.C. The platform accepts over 360 insurance plans and offers services for individuals, couples, and families, including children and teens.

Most new patients at Thriveworks can start therapy within a week of their initial contact. The platform offers flexible scheduling, including appointments on nights and weekends, and does not require a membership fee. For self-pay patients, initial therapy sessions cost $200 to $240, while psychiatry appointments start at $300 to $375. You can browse provider profiles online to find a match or call their support team for assistance.

Rula at a glance

Founded in 2019, Rula is a mental health platform that helps people find licensed therapists covered by insurance and schedule appointments through its platform. Rula connects patients to a nationwide network of 21,000+ licensed providers across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with care available via live video (Zoom) as well as in-person therapy appointments at provider-operated offices.

Rula offers individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, child therapy, teen therapy, and psychiatry (medication management) for people ages 13 and older. Patients can browse a curated list of in-network providers, filter by preferences like specialty, availability, and language, and book online — often with appointments available as soon as tomorrow. For many people using insurance, Rula says patients typically pay about $15 per session, and self-pay rates are $150 per session for individual therapy and $165 per session for couples or family therapy.

Clinical outcomes and how they compare

Clinical outcomes and evidence-based approaches are crucial for determining if a mental health platform can deliver measurable improvements. Both SonderMind and Thriveworks track patient progress and report positive results, though their methods and metrics differ.

SonderMind clinical outcomes

SonderMind reports that 84% of its patients experience a measurable reduction in symptoms within two months of starting treatment. The platform's outcomes are ranked among the top 20% of global outpatient care centers for quality and efficacy. SonderMind also states its approach is more effective at reducing anxiety and depression symptoms than results seen in randomized clinical trials. This is supported by strong engagement, with 73% of patients continuing treatment beyond the first two sessions.

Thriveworks clinical outcomes

Thriveworks reports that 75% of its patients with depression or anxiety feel better within three months of starting care. The platform also highlights the importance of the therapeutic relationship, with 96% of patients feeling truly supported and understood by their therapist.

Rula clinical outcomes

Rula measures success through both clinical progress and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Platform data shows that 93% of patients experience symptom improvement, 94% feel comfortable and at ease with their provider, and 98% were connected with someone who met their specific needs — all outcomes that surpass national benchmarks by over 10%.

Cost and insurance coverage

Both SonderMind and Thriveworks accept most major insurance plans and offer self-pay options, but they differ in their network breadth and pricing structures.

Insurance plans accepted

SonderMind insurance networks:

• Aetna

• Anthem

• BlueCross BlueShield

• Humana

• Kaiser

• United Healthcare

• Medicare and Medicare Advantage

• TRICARE West (TriWest Healthcare Alliance)

Thriveworks insurance networks:

• Aetna

• Ambetter

• Anthem

• BlueCross BlueShield

• Cigna

• Humana

• Optum

• Tricare

• UnitedHealthcare

• Medicare

Another option to consider is Rula, which is designed to make insurance use easier for mental healthcare. Therapists on Rula are in-network with many major plans, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Kaiser Permanente (by referral), Optum Behavioral Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare (including Medicare Advantage).

Out-of-pocket costs (with insurance)

With SonderMind, many patients pay a copay between $0 and $55+ per session when using their in-network insurance. Your final cost depends on your specific plan, copay, and deductible. Charges are applied after your insurance processes the claim, which typically takes 30 to 90 days.

At Thriveworks, many patients also pay between $0 and $55 per session in copays. Because the platform accepts over 360 insurance plans, there is a high likelihood of finding an in-network provider to help keep costs down. Your actual out-of-pocket expense will depend on your insurance plan's specific details.

HSA/FSA eligibility

Both SonderMind and Thriveworks accept health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) cards for payment. These accounts can be used to cover therapy costs as long as the treatment is considered medically necessary.

Self-pay pricing

SonderMind self-pay rates:

• Intake sessions: $90–$183

• 30-minute sessions: $45–$79

• 45-minute sessions: $70–$104

• 60-minute sessions: $85–$154

Thriveworks self-pay rates:

• Initial therapy sessions: $200–$240

• Follow-up therapy sessions: $160–$195

• Initial psychiatry appointments: $300–$375

• Follow-up psychiatry appointments: $210–$300

Mental health services offered

The range of services and therapeutic approaches a platform offers is important for finding care that matches your specific needs. Both SonderMind and Thriveworks provide evidence-based therapies, but they differ in the breadth of their available treatment options.

Treatment approaches offered by SonderMind

SonderMind providers deliver care across more than 40 specialized areas, with a focus on evidence-based methods and culturally responsive treatment.

Common therapy approaches include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)

• Psychodynamic approaches

• Humanistic therapy

• Family therapy approaches

• Trauma-informed care

Specialized treatment areas include:

• Anxiety and depression

• ADHD and OCD

• Trauma and PTSD

• Grief and loss

• Relationship issues and family conflict

SonderMind offers psychiatric care through board-certified psychiatrists (MD/DO) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP). You can access medication management on its own or alongside therapy sessions, with options for comprehensive initial assessments and brief follow-up visits.

Treatment approaches offered by Thriveworks

Thriveworks provides a broad range of mental health services designed for individuals, couples, families, and children. The platform offers individual therapy, psychiatry with medication management, and targeted counseling that addresses the unique needs of different age groups and relationship structures.

Common therapy approaches include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)

• Evidence-based psychotherapy

• Talk therapy

• Behavioral therapy

Specialized treatment areas:

• ADHD and Bipolar Disorder

• Anger management

• Anxiety and depression

• Grief and loss

• Relationship issues and stress

Rula treatment approaches offered

Rula connects patients with providers across 180+ clinical specialties and modalities, making it easier to find care that aligns with your needs and goals. Providers on Rula support a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, autism, trauma-related concerns like PTSD, and OCD.

Common modalities used by Rula providers include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT))

• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

• 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

Rula also offers medication management and psychiatry through board-certified psychiatrists (MD/DO) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP).

Inclusivity and specialized care

Finding a provider you trust and who understands your unique background is essential for making real progress in therapy. Both SonderMind and Thriveworks aim to create inclusive environments and match patients with providers who offer culturally competent and affirming care.

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 over 40 specialized areas of care, including trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

• Languages available: The number of languages offered is not specified, but the matching process considers patient preferences.

• Inclusivity factors: SonderMind provides LGBTQ+ affirming care with trained clinicians, as well as specialized services for teens and seniors.

Thriveworks inclusivity and specialization overview

• Licensure types: The network includes licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurse practitioners.

• Specializations offered: Specialties include ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, EMDR, and trauma.

• Languages available: Providers across the network speak multiple languages, including Russian, Spanish, Creole, French, and Arabic.

• Inclusivity factors: Thriveworks offers LGBTQIA+ counseling and specialized therapy for children and teens from ages 0 to 17.

Platform availability and access

How quickly you can see a provider, how easily you can schedule appointments, and the session formats available all impact your ability to get consistent care. Both platforms work to reduce wait times and offer flexible access, but they differ in their matching processes and geographic coverage.

Rula offers therapy in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with appointments available via live video (Zoom) — often as soon as tomorrow — and in-person therapy appointments at provider-operated offices.

How access works with SonderMind

• States served: SonderMind is available in all 50 states for both therapy and psychiatry services.

• Matching process: After you complete an intake form, SonderMind's matching team connects you with at least two providers within 48 hours. You can then decide which provider is the right fit and schedule your first appointment, which is typically within two weeks.

• Session formats: You can choose between video sessions, in-person appointments, or audio-only phone sessions (for self-pay patients).

• Scheduling: A direct scheduling feature lets you book appointments based on a provider's availability, with the option to schedule as soon as 24 hours in advance.

• App/portal experience: The SonderMind mobile app offers self-guided meditations, AI-powered reflections, and progress tracking tools to support you between sessions.

How access works with Thriveworks

• States served: Thriveworks has over 340 physical offices, with online therapy available in 49 states and Washington D.C.

• Matching process: You can browse provider profiles online or call the support team for help finding a match. Most people start therapy within one week.

• Session formats: You can choose between in-person sessions at one of their office locations or online video sessions.

• Scheduling: The platform offers flexible scheduling with appointments available on nights and weekends. You can book online or by phone and can reschedule or cancel for free up to 48 hours before your appointment.

• App/portal experience: Thriveworks doesn't have a mobile app, but you can message your provider through the client portal. A support team is also available seven days a week to help with scheduling and other questions.

What each platform does best

Identifying what each platform does well can guide you toward the right fit for your specific situation — whether you're focused on finding affordable sessions, accessing a wide range of specialists, meeting with someone face-to-face, or getting connected to care quickly.

SonderMind excels when you need:

• The largest provider network: With over 12,500 providers, you have more options for finding the right match.

• Faster matching: You can be matched with a provider in as little as 48 hours.

• Flexible self-pay pricing: Session costs can be as low as $45, offering more affordable options for shorter sessions.

• A comprehensive mobile app: The app provides self-guided resources and progress tracking for support between sessions.

Thriveworks excels when you need:

• Physical office access: With over 340 locations, it's a strong choice if you prefer in-person care in a professional setting.

• Broader insurance acceptance: The platform accepts over 360 insurance plans, increasing your chances of being covered.

• Weekend and evening availability: Flexible scheduling makes it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule.

• A quick start: Most people can begin therapy within one week of signing up.

Summary: Is SonderMind or Thriveworks right for you?

SonderMind and Thriveworks serve different needs. SonderMind is the stronger fit if you want a large provider network, a data-driven matching process, and a robust mobile app with between-session tools. Thriveworks is the better choice if you prefer in-person sessions at a physical clinic, need couples or family therapy, or want evening and weekend availability. Thriveworks also accepts a broader range of insurance plans, though neither platform accepts Medicaid.

Rula is another option worth considering. With 21,000+ providers across all 50 states, broad insurance acceptance, and both therapy and psychiatry available in one place, most insured patients pay around $15 per session with appointments often available as soon as the next day.

FAQs

How does getting started differ between SonderMind and Thriveworks?

SonderMind matches you with one or more providers within 48 hours after you complete an intake form, and most people schedule their first appointment within two weeks. Thriveworks lets you browse provider profiles online to choose your own match or call their support team for help, with most people starting therapy within one week of their initial contact.

How do SonderMind and Thriveworks compare on self-pay pricing for therapy and psychiatry?

SonderMind's self-pay rates for therapy range from $45 to $183 depending on session length and state, while Thriveworks charges $200 to $240 for initial therapy sessions and $160 to $195 for follow-ups. For psychiatry, SonderMind's rates range from $90 to $183 for intake sessions, while Thriveworks charges $300 to $375 for initial psychiatry appointments and $210 to $300 for follow-ups.

How does insurance coverage differ between SonderMind and Thriveworks?

SonderMind is in-network with most major insurance plans including Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, United Healthcare, Medicare, and TRICARE West, while Thriveworks accepts over 360 insurance plans including Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, and Tricare. Neither platform currently accepts Medicaid.

Why choose Rula for quality of care?

Rula combines measurable outcomes with broad access. Platform data shows 93% of patients feel better about their symptoms after receiving care, and the network of 21,000+ licensed providers covers 180+ clinical specialties and modalities. Rula offers therapy and psychiatry via live video (Zoom) and in-person appointments at provider-operated offices. Many patients using insurance typically pay about $15 per session.

Find care with Rula

Choosing between mental health platforms is an important decision — one that can shape how quickly you start making progress and how supported you feel along the way. Rula makes it simple to move forward with confidence. You can verify your insurance benefits in minutes, browse providers who match your specific needs and preferences, and often book your first appointment as soon as tomorrow. You'll see your estimated costs upfront, so there are no surprises — just a clear path to care that works with your insurance and fits your life.