The Best Online Therapy Services for Depression We Tried and Tested

Online therapycompanies offer access to a therapist via live chat, phone call, or video call. Some platforms also offer asynchronous messaging between users and therapists, which can be helpful to those struggling with depression who might need some extra support between sessions. To help you find the best online services, weresearched and tested 55 different online therapy companiesand 27 online therapy directories and surveyed 100 users of each company and directory. Based on this information, we compiled a list of the best online help for depression.

12 Best Online Therapy Services for DepressionMost Comprehensive:BrightsideBest on a Budget:Open Path CollectiveBest for Psychiatry:TalkiatryBest for LGBTQIA+:National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color NetworkBest for Couples:ReGainBest for Substance Use:MonumentBest for Peer Counseling:Peer CollectiveBest for Finding a Therapist:TherapyDenBest for Free:7 CupsBest for Black Communities:Therapy For Black GirlsBest Directory:GoodTherapyBest With Insurance:Teladoc

82Companies reviewed8,400Total users surveyed350Data points analyzedWe surveyed 100 users from 55 online therapy companies and 27 therapist directories to understand their experiences with these services. Then, we tested the services ourselves across multiple states, conducted comprehensive data collection research, and evaluated our results with the help of a licensed therapist.

82Companies reviewed8,400Total users surveyed350Data points analyzed

82Companies reviewed

Companies reviewed

8,400Total users surveyed

Total users surveyed

350Data points analyzed

Data points analyzed

Our Online Therapy MethodologyCurious about the extensive work we did to research and evaluate online therapy companies? Take a look at ouronline therapy methodology.

Our Online Therapy Methodology

Curious about the extensive work we did to research and evaluate online therapy companies? Take a look at ouronline therapy methodology.

The Best Online Therapy Services for Depression We Tried and TestedView AllThe Best Online Therapy Services for Depression We Tried and TestedOur Top PicksBrightsideOpen Path CollectiveTalkiatryNational Queer and Trans Therapists of Color NetworkReGainMonumentPeer CollectiveTherapyDen7 CupsTherapy For Black GirlsGoodTherapyTeladocSee More (9)Compare ProvidersGuide to ChoosingIs Online Therapy for Depression Right For You?FAQsMethodology

The Best Online Therapy Services for Depression We Tried and TestedView All

View All

The Best Online Therapy Services for Depression We Tried and Tested

Guide to Choosing

Is Online Therapy for Depression Right For You?

FAQs

Methodology

Most Comprehensive:Brightside

Price:$95-$349 per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication Management, PsychiatryLearn More

Learn More

Why We Chose It

Brightside specializes in providing high-quality telehealth therapy and medication management for those suffering from depression. Beyond evidence-based therapeutic techniques, it also offers skill-building lessons and symptom trackers to empower users. We are especially impressed with its competitive pricing and quality of care.

Pros & Cons

ProsOffers both psychiatry and therapyProvides self-care lessons to help you heal on your ownHas three different plans to choose fromEmploys quality clinicians with expertise in depressionConsSessions are somewhat shortCan’t choose your own providerNot the best for long-term care

ProsOffers both psychiatry and therapyProvides self-care lessons to help you heal on your ownHas three different plans to choose fromEmploys quality clinicians with expertise in depression

Offers both psychiatry and therapy

Provides self-care lessons to help you heal on your own

Has three different plans to choose from

Employs quality clinicians with expertise in depression

ConsSessions are somewhat shortCan’t choose your own providerNot the best for long-term care

Sessions are somewhat short

Can’t choose your own provider

Not the best for long-term care

Our Testing

We had four people tryBrightside Healthfrom North Carolina, New York, and California for individual therapy and found the platform to be a good resource for people suffering from mild to moderate depression or anxiety; in fact, it specializes in these conditions, including bothmajor depressive disorderandbipolar depression. With a special focus on data-driven results, Brightside takes pride in helping patients feel better fast using an integrative approach of therapy, self-guided lessons, and medication.Most therapists were warm and relatable and made us feel at ease. Over time we found that we gained new approaches to tackling certain situations and thought processes. We certainly benefited from the platform’s comprehensive approach. Thecognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)-based self-care lessons that are a part of the subscription expanded the usefulness of our therapy sessions. We could use the lessons to reflect on what had happened in the session or bring up what we learned the next time we saw our therapist. We liked that the answers to our lessons were available no matter which therapist we saw, so there was documentation of what we’d been working on.“We were able to establish a rapport pretty quickly. It did take me some time to open up, but [my therapist] assured me that’s normal and we can work at my pace."—Brightside Health tester, who had never tried online therapy beforeWe also loved how knowledgeable and experienced our clinicians were. We got a clear sense that they were experts in the issues we were working on. Unfortunately, not every therapist impressed us. One was late to our session and even had the wrong information about us. While this unprofessional behavior was disappointing, our overall impression of Brightside was overwhelmingly positive.

Most therapists were warm and relatable and made us feel at ease. Over time we found that we gained new approaches to tackling certain situations and thought processes. We certainly benefited from the platform’s comprehensive approach. Thecognitive behavioral therapy(CBT)-based self-care lessons that are a part of the subscription expanded the usefulness of our therapy sessions. We could use the lessons to reflect on what had happened in the session or bring up what we learned the next time we saw our therapist. We liked that the answers to our lessons were available no matter which therapist we saw, so there was documentation of what we’d been working on.

“We were able to establish a rapport pretty quickly. It did take me some time to open up, but [my therapist] assured me that’s normal and we can work at my pace."—Brightside Health tester, who had never tried online therapy before

“We were able to establish a rapport pretty quickly. It did take me some time to open up, but [my therapist] assured me that’s normal and we can work at my pace.”

—Brightside Health tester, who had never tried online therapy before

We also loved how knowledgeable and experienced our clinicians were. We got a clear sense that they were experts in the issues we were working on. Unfortunately, not every therapist impressed us. One was late to our session and even had the wrong information about us. While this unprofessional behavior was disappointing, our overall impression of Brightside was overwhelmingly positive.

Plans & Pricing

What Users Say

We surveyed 100 users of Brightside:88% rated Brightside as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at Brightside99% are likely or very likely to recommend Brightside to a friend or someone like them68% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Brightside:

Best on a Budget:Open Path Collective

Price:$30 to $80 per session, one-time membership fee of $65Is Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Children’s Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Teen CounselingLearn More

Open Path Collective, an online therapy directory, connects users with therapists offering affordable sliding-scale rates. All therapists must offer the same low range of rates, making the process of finding a therapist to treat your depression easy as long as you can pay the fees (which are much lower than most online therapy companies).

ProsProviders offer low, sliding-scale ratesEmphasis on diversity and inclusionCompany committed to accessible therapyMembership fee is one-time onlyConsSome therapists may be pre-licensed (students)Therapist availability not regularly updatedProviders do not accept insurance

ProsProviders offer low, sliding-scale ratesEmphasis on diversity and inclusionCompany committed to accessible therapyMembership fee is one-time only

Providers offer low, sliding-scale rates

Emphasis on diversity and inclusion

Company committed to accessible therapy

Membership fee is one-time only

ConsSome therapists may be pre-licensed (students)Therapist availability not regularly updatedProviders do not accept insurance

Some therapists may be pre-licensed (students)

Therapist availability not regularly updated

Providers do not accept insurance

We tested the online therapy directoryOpen Path Collectivetwice in New York for individual therapy and loved how accessible and user-friendly the platform was. We found it to be a good resource for people seeking help for a variety of mental health issues, including depression or, in our case, grief and loss (which can be related).

At the same time, getting ahold of someone who is actually available can be a bit of a challenge. We emailed four providers, and only two responded, with one saying they weren’t accepting new patients despite what it said on their profile. Seeing Open Path encourage clinicians to keep their bio pages updated would be nice. That said, we were thrilled to find a proficient provider in a modality we loved (art therapy) at an incredibly affordable rate. Our most recent testing held up just as well. Even with filters that included the less-common ask of in-person sessions, we were provided with just as many therapists as before; and this number expanded exponentially once we included telehealth as well.

We surveyed 100 users of Open Path Collective:97% rated Open Path Collective as very good or excellent overall92% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at Open Path Collective99% are likely or very likely to recommend Open Path Collective to a friend or someone like them58% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Open Path Collective:

Best for Psychiatry:Talkiatry

Price:Depends on your insuranceIs Insurance Accepted?:Yes. BCBS, Optum, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Medicare, and othersType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication Management, PsychiatryLearn More

ProsTreats depression with medication and therapyLong session timesSessions feel integrative/holisticOffers services for children and adolescentsAccepts a wide range of insurance plansConsOnly available to people who have insuranceCannot find out pricing prior to sign-upCan only see a Talkiatry therapist if you’re seeing a Talkiatry psychiatrist

ProsTreats depression with medication and therapyLong session timesSessions feel integrative/holisticOffers services for children and adolescentsAccepts a wide range of insurance plans

Treats depression with medication and therapy

Long session times

Sessions feel integrative/holistic

Offers services for children and adolescents

Accepts a wide range of insurance plans

ConsOnly available to people who have insuranceCannot find out pricing prior to sign-upCan only see a Talkiatry therapist if you’re seeing a Talkiatry psychiatrist

Only available to people who have insurance

Cannot find out pricing prior to sign-up

Can only see a Talkiatry therapist if you’re seeing a Talkiatry psychiatrist

We surveyed 100 users of Talkiatry:86% rated Talkiatry as very good or excellent overall87% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent96% said that most or all of their needs were met at Talkiatry95% are likely or very likely to recommend Talkiatry to a friend or someone like them71% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Talkiatry:

Best for LGBTQIA+:National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network

The National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network is a diverse online therapy directory that highlights LGBTQ+ therapists of color, simplifying the process of receiving culturally inclusive care for therapy seekers with depression. You can connect to culturally informed therapists across the country in minutes.

ProsSpecialized focus on BIPOC LGBTQ+ communitiesClear commitment to marginalized communitiesYou pick your therapistWide variety of therapists with a breadth of specialtiesImpressive range of services offeredConsWebsite isn’t user-friendlyTherapist bios can be shortFew search filters

Specialized focus on BIPOC LGBTQ+ communities

Clear commitment to marginalized communities

You pick your therapist

Wide variety of therapists with a breadth of specialties

Impressive range of services offered

ConsWebsite isn’t user-friendlyTherapist bios can be shortFew search filters

Website isn’t user-friendly

Therapist bios can be short

Few search filters

We tried theNational Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network(NQTTCN) for individual therapy from Kentucky and found it to be a refreshingly easy and seamless experience. What’s more, our clinician was culturally affirming and created a safe space we haven’t found on other platforms. Both the user-friendliness and the quality of care make the platform a good choice for people with depression.

While it took some time to filter for the right provider, ultimately, finding the right therapist was incredibly fast and easy. Once we reached out to a provider, we received a reply within an hour and scheduled a session in less than a week. Our therapist was kind and competent and avoided making assumptions about us based on our identities. Our session was different from what we’d experienced with other platforms; it was affirming and positive, and we felt an authentic connection with our provider.

We surveyed 100 users of National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network:93% rated National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent99% said that most or all of their needs were met at National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network96% are likely or very likely to recommend National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network to a friend or someone like them49% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network:

Best for Couples:ReGain

Price:$260-$360+ per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Individual TherapyLearn More

ReGain offers virtual therapy for individuals and couples who are looking to strengthen their relationships. It is an excellent option for couples in which one or both parties are experiencing depression and need extra support, thanks to its roster of licensed therapists who are trained to treat a variety of issues.

ProsDesigned for couplesTherapists use diverse modalitiesAll therapists are licensedCan message therapist between sessionsEasy to switch therapistsConsBills on a monthly basisDoes not accept insuranceSessions are short

ProsDesigned for couplesTherapists use diverse modalitiesAll therapists are licensedCan message therapist between sessionsEasy to switch therapists

Designed for couples

Therapists use diverse modalities

All therapists are licensed

Can message therapist between sessions

Easy to switch therapists

ConsBills on a monthly basisDoes not accept insuranceSessions are short

Bills on a monthly basis

Does not accept insurance

Sessions are short

“My husband and I both work 9-5 so we are unavailable during the day for the most part. [Our therapist] was very willing to work with us to find a time that best suits us even if that time was out of her typical schedule."—ReGain tester, who tried couples therapy

—ReGain tester, who tried couples therapy

The short session times left something to be desired, though. At just 30 to 45 minutes, we struggled alongside our partner to be seen and heard. With barely enough time to broach tough topics, we found ourselves actually fighting more when we didn’t get the chance to fully resolve an issue during the session. Making the most of ReGain requires careful planning of which issues you’ll be bringing up (not exactly the point of therapy) or finding a therapist with availability multiple times per week.

Insurance Accepted:No, and does not accept payment through flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs)Subscription Required:YesOut-of-Pocket Costs:$65 to $90 per week, billed on a monthly basis

We surveyed 100 users of ReGain:87% rated ReGain as very good or excellent overall93% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at ReGain98% are likely or very likely to recommend ReGain to a friend or someone like them47% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of ReGain:

Read the FullReGain Online Therapy Review

Best for Substance Use:Monument

Price:Starts at $15+ per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Peer SupportLearn More

Monument provides therapy, peer support, and medication management options to individuals struggling with their relationship with alcohol, including those also dealing with depression. It accepts insurance and offers multiple pricing plans, making help accessible to more people.

ProsAccess to licensed therapists and physiciansProvides chat forums and peer support groupsCan access medicationAccepts insuranceCan join for just $15 per monthConsTherapy and medication management not available in all 50 statesFocus is on alcohol addictionOnly prescribes two medications

ProsAccess to licensed therapists and physiciansProvides chat forums and peer support groupsCan access medicationAccepts insuranceCan join for just $15 per month

Access to licensed therapists and physicians

Provides chat forums and peer support groups

Can access medication

Accepts insurance

Can join for just $15 per month

ConsTherapy and medication management not available in all 50 statesFocus is on alcohol addictionOnly prescribes two medications

Therapy and medication management not available in all 50 states

Focus is on alcohol addiction

Only prescribes two medications

We did not tryMonument, since we felt it would be unethical to ask someone struggling with addiction to try a counseling service short-term, but we feel confident recommending it because of the targeted support it offers to people struggling withalcohol use disorder(AUD), which is oftencomorbid with depression.Not only can users access licensed therapists, but they also get peer support and medication for AUD if necessary.

We love Monument’s holistic approach. Users get physician appointments and individual therapy services, as well as medication management, all included in their monthly subscription price. There are two options for medication:disulfiramornaltrexone, both of which specifically treat AUD. Plus, there are numerous support groups with their own specific focus, such as Navigating Sobriety or Moderation for Women, Utilizing Self-Care to Reach Our Goals, and Group Meditation. These offerings go well beyond the traditional 12-step abstinence approach.

We surveyed 100 users of Monument:84% rated Monument as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at Monument95% are likely or very likely to recommend Monument to a friend or someone like them63% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Monument:

Best for Peer Counseling:Peer Collective

Price:$22 per 30 minute session, $32 per 60 minutes, $100 for 4 hours of credit ($25/hr)Is Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Peer SupportLearn More

Peer Collective provides affordable support with thoroughly vetted peers for those struggling with depression. It’s an accessible way to get a listening ear for the issues causing your depression.

Free first session

Rigorous vetting process for peer counselors

Each counselor has experience with relevant issues

Low cost per session

ConsPeer counselors are not licensed professionalsNot a substitute for professional treatment of depressionNo medication management

Peer counselors are not licensed professionals

Not a substitute for professional treatment of depression

No medication management

We testedPeer Collectivefrom California for individual peer counseling and found it to be an exceptional resource for those struggling with a variety of issues, including depression. The platform was well-run, everything was on time, and our counselors were professional and caring.We found the platform to be better run and provide a better experience than many online therapy platforms we’ve tried. Counselors were always punctual, we got a phone number to call if there were any technical errors or delays, and switching counselors was exceptionally easy. The counselors may not have been therapists, but they were well-prepared for our sessions and were more professional than many clinicians we have worked with. We left sessions feeling less alone in our problems, with ideas and tools to help us navigate challenging situations. For someone with depression, getting support from another person who has dealt with similar issues and has lived experience with the same kinds of symptoms and challenges can be especially bolstering and instill hope.Choosing a counselor was also a good experience. While we only had a handful to choose from, we appreciated that they listed personal details in their bios that demonstrated what they’d experienced and how they’d navigated their own healing journeys. It did take a moment to adjust to counselors not being therapists. There were awkward moments when we expected the counselor to jump in with more guidance, but then we remembered that peer counseling runs a little differently. Overall, our experience was wonderful.

We found the platform to be better run and provide a better experience than many online therapy platforms we’ve tried. Counselors were always punctual, we got a phone number to call if there were any technical errors or delays, and switching counselors was exceptionally easy. The counselors may not have been therapists, but they were well-prepared for our sessions and were more professional than many clinicians we have worked with. We left sessions feeling less alone in our problems, with ideas and tools to help us navigate challenging situations. For someone with depression, getting support from another person who has dealt with similar issues and has lived experience with the same kinds of symptoms and challenges can be especially bolstering and instill hope.

Choosing a counselor was also a good experience. While we only had a handful to choose from, we appreciated that they listed personal details in their bios that demonstrated what they’d experienced and how they’d navigated their own healing journeys. It did take a moment to adjust to counselors not being therapists. There were awkward moments when we expected the counselor to jump in with more guidance, but then we remembered that peer counseling runs a little differently. Overall, our experience was wonderful.

Insurance Accepted:No, since these are peer support sessions and not formal therapy, Peer Collective is not in-network with any insurance providers and is unable to provide a superbill for reimbursement.Subscription Required:NoOut-of-Pocket Costs:Thirty-minute sessions cost $22 each while hour-long sessions are $32 each, or you can pay for 4 hours upfront for $100 ($25 per hour). Additionally, you can have a trial session for as low as 50 cents. The company provides immediate refunds should users not be satisfied with their sessions.

We surveyed 100 users of Peer Collective:89% rated Peer Collective as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent100% said that most or all of their needs were met at Peer Collective99% are likely or very likely to recommend Peer Collective to a friend or someone like them61% were seeking support for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Peer Collective:

Best for Finding a Therapist:TherapyDen

Price:Free to use, session fees vary based on the providerIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Children’s Therapy, Couples Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication ManagementLearn More

TherapyDen, an online therapy directory, allows therapy seekers to personalize their search results to find the right match in a therapist who can treat depression.It’s a user-friendly platformcontaining both in-person and online therapists.

ProsWide variety of search optionsInclusive for allEasy to useOnline and in-person therapists availableSome therapists take insuranceHas caring, experienced cliniciansConsDoes not specify therapist’s availabilityNot the largest therapist directory out thereWebsite layout is crowded

ProsWide variety of search optionsInclusive for allEasy to useOnline and in-person therapists availableSome therapists take insuranceHas caring, experienced clinicians

Wide variety of search options

Inclusive for all

Easy to use

Online and in-person therapists available

Some therapists take insurance

Has caring, experienced clinicians

ConsDoes not specify therapist’s availabilityNot the largest therapist directory out thereWebsite layout is crowded

Does not specify therapist’s availability

Not the largest therapist directory out there

Website layout is crowded

We tested the online therapy directoryTherapyDenfrom Kansas and found it to be a great option for those seeking very specific traits in a therapist who can treat depression. It’s a user-friendly website that helps people get support quickly from a variety of counselors.

There are a few irksome issues on the website, though. For example, we didn’t like that clicking back after a therapist’s bio took us to the first page of results rather than where we were. This can slow down the process of finding a provider. There were also fewer providers listed in the directory than can be found in others. When we tested TherapyDen from Kansas, it was somewhat difficult to find whether the therapists who came up in our search were accepting new clients; but in our most recent testing (in May of 2024), we were happy to see that this information was available on the therapists' bios.

We surveyed 100 users of TherapyDen:87% rated TherapyDen as very good or excellent overall87% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent91% said that most or all of their needs were met at TherapyDen96% are likely or very likely to recommend TherapyDen to a friend or someone like them54% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of TherapyDen:

Best for Free:7 CupsPrice:Free peer services available; online therapy is $159–$299 per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Peer SupportLearn MoreWhy We Chose It7 Cups offers a free peer-to-peer chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as affordable individual online therapy. Both peer “listeners” and mental health professionals at 7 Cups are well-versed in symptoms of depression.Pros & ConsProsFree peer-to-peer chatOffers modules for specific issuesOffers text therapyAvailable 24/7Affordable option for online therapyConsChat does not involve licensed professionalsDoes not accept insuranceNo medication managementOur TestingWe tested7 Cupsfor individual therapy from Missouri and found it to be a good option for people needing free support for a variety of mental health issues, including mild depression. Users opting for the free version have a range of resources to choose from. If needed, they can upgrade to receive text-based therapy for $159 per month or live talk therapy for $299 per month with a licensed mental health professional.We liked how easy it was to get started. Sign-up was fast and straightforward, and we were able to start using the platform right away. The free version got us live discussions, peer forums, self-help guides, mindfulness exercises, and educational, activity-based modules designed for specific issues, including depression. When we upgraded to premium support, we got access to even more tools and resources. We opted to get therapy as well, and while our clinician was all the way in South Africa, we got timely responses, which was nice.That said, peer support can be hit or miss. We loved one of our peer listeners, who offered non-judgemental listening and motivation. But another? Not so much. This person gave us advice that didn’t seem very professional. It made us question the vetting process of the platform. Just know that the level of care you receive can vary widely.Plans & PricingInsurance Accepted:NoSubscription Required:Not for peer support, but required in order to see a licensed mental health providerOut-of-Pocket Costs: The forums, private chat rooms, and online volunteer chat are free to use. There is also a premium version with additional resources for $12.95 per month. If you want traditional therapy with a licensed mental health professional, 7 Cups offers messaging therapy (therapist reads daily messages and responds Monday to Friday) for $159 per month or weekly 45-minute live online talk therapy sessions for $299 per month. All therapy subscriptions also include access to the premium resources.What Users SayWe surveyed 100 users of 7 Cups:91% rated 7 Cups as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at 7 Cups94% are likely or very likely to recommend 7 Cups to a friend or someone like them47% were seeking treatment for depression

Best for Free:7 Cups

Price:Free peer services available; online therapy is $159–$299 per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Peer SupportLearn MoreWhy We Chose It7 Cups offers a free peer-to-peer chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as affordable individual online therapy. Both peer “listeners” and mental health professionals at 7 Cups are well-versed in symptoms of depression.Pros & ConsProsFree peer-to-peer chatOffers modules for specific issuesOffers text therapyAvailable 24/7Affordable option for online therapyConsChat does not involve licensed professionalsDoes not accept insuranceNo medication managementOur TestingWe tested7 Cupsfor individual therapy from Missouri and found it to be a good option for people needing free support for a variety of mental health issues, including mild depression. Users opting for the free version have a range of resources to choose from. If needed, they can upgrade to receive text-based therapy for $159 per month or live talk therapy for $299 per month with a licensed mental health professional.We liked how easy it was to get started. Sign-up was fast and straightforward, and we were able to start using the platform right away. The free version got us live discussions, peer forums, self-help guides, mindfulness exercises, and educational, activity-based modules designed for specific issues, including depression. When we upgraded to premium support, we got access to even more tools and resources. We opted to get therapy as well, and while our clinician was all the way in South Africa, we got timely responses, which was nice.That said, peer support can be hit or miss. We loved one of our peer listeners, who offered non-judgemental listening and motivation. But another? Not so much. This person gave us advice that didn’t seem very professional. It made us question the vetting process of the platform. Just know that the level of care you receive can vary widely.Plans & PricingInsurance Accepted:NoSubscription Required:Not for peer support, but required in order to see a licensed mental health providerOut-of-Pocket Costs: The forums, private chat rooms, and online volunteer chat are free to use. There is also a premium version with additional resources for $12.95 per month. If you want traditional therapy with a licensed mental health professional, 7 Cups offers messaging therapy (therapist reads daily messages and responds Monday to Friday) for $159 per month or weekly 45-minute live online talk therapy sessions for $299 per month. All therapy subscriptions also include access to the premium resources.What Users SayWe surveyed 100 users of 7 Cups:91% rated 7 Cups as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at 7 Cups94% are likely or very likely to recommend 7 Cups to a friend or someone like them47% were seeking treatment for depression

Price:Free peer services available; online therapy is $159–$299 per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:NoType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Peer SupportLearn More

7 Cups

Why We Chose It7 Cups offers a free peer-to-peer chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as affordable individual online therapy. Both peer “listeners” and mental health professionals at 7 Cups are well-versed in symptoms of depression.Pros & ConsProsFree peer-to-peer chatOffers modules for specific issuesOffers text therapyAvailable 24/7Affordable option for online therapyConsChat does not involve licensed professionalsDoes not accept insuranceNo medication managementOur TestingWe tested7 Cupsfor individual therapy from Missouri and found it to be a good option for people needing free support for a variety of mental health issues, including mild depression. Users opting for the free version have a range of resources to choose from. If needed, they can upgrade to receive text-based therapy for $159 per month or live talk therapy for $299 per month with a licensed mental health professional.We liked how easy it was to get started. Sign-up was fast and straightforward, and we were able to start using the platform right away. The free version got us live discussions, peer forums, self-help guides, mindfulness exercises, and educational, activity-based modules designed for specific issues, including depression. When we upgraded to premium support, we got access to even more tools and resources. We opted to get therapy as well, and while our clinician was all the way in South Africa, we got timely responses, which was nice.That said, peer support can be hit or miss. We loved one of our peer listeners, who offered non-judgemental listening and motivation. But another? Not so much. This person gave us advice that didn’t seem very professional. It made us question the vetting process of the platform. Just know that the level of care you receive can vary widely.Plans & PricingInsurance Accepted:NoSubscription Required:Not for peer support, but required in order to see a licensed mental health providerOut-of-Pocket Costs: The forums, private chat rooms, and online volunteer chat are free to use. There is also a premium version with additional resources for $12.95 per month. If you want traditional therapy with a licensed mental health professional, 7 Cups offers messaging therapy (therapist reads daily messages and responds Monday to Friday) for $159 per month or weekly 45-minute live online talk therapy sessions for $299 per month. All therapy subscriptions also include access to the premium resources.What Users SayWe surveyed 100 users of 7 Cups:91% rated 7 Cups as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at 7 Cups94% are likely or very likely to recommend 7 Cups to a friend or someone like them47% were seeking treatment for depression

7 Cups offers a free peer-to-peer chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as affordable individual online therapy. Both peer “listeners” and mental health professionals at 7 Cups are well-versed in symptoms of depression.

ProsFree peer-to-peer chatOffers modules for specific issuesOffers text therapyAvailable 24/7Affordable option for online therapyConsChat does not involve licensed professionalsDoes not accept insuranceNo medication management

ProsFree peer-to-peer chatOffers modules for specific issuesOffers text therapyAvailable 24/7Affordable option for online therapy

Free peer-to-peer chat

Offers modules for specific issues

Offers text therapy

Available 24/7

Affordable option for online therapy

ConsChat does not involve licensed professionalsDoes not accept insuranceNo medication management

Chat does not involve licensed professionals

We tested7 Cupsfor individual therapy from Missouri and found it to be a good option for people needing free support for a variety of mental health issues, including mild depression. Users opting for the free version have a range of resources to choose from. If needed, they can upgrade to receive text-based therapy for $159 per month or live talk therapy for $299 per month with a licensed mental health professional.We liked how easy it was to get started. Sign-up was fast and straightforward, and we were able to start using the platform right away. The free version got us live discussions, peer forums, self-help guides, mindfulness exercises, and educational, activity-based modules designed for specific issues, including depression. When we upgraded to premium support, we got access to even more tools and resources. We opted to get therapy as well, and while our clinician was all the way in South Africa, we got timely responses, which was nice.That said, peer support can be hit or miss. We loved one of our peer listeners, who offered non-judgemental listening and motivation. But another? Not so much. This person gave us advice that didn’t seem very professional. It made us question the vetting process of the platform. Just know that the level of care you receive can vary widely.

We liked how easy it was to get started. Sign-up was fast and straightforward, and we were able to start using the platform right away. The free version got us live discussions, peer forums, self-help guides, mindfulness exercises, and educational, activity-based modules designed for specific issues, including depression. When we upgraded to premium support, we got access to even more tools and resources. We opted to get therapy as well, and while our clinician was all the way in South Africa, we got timely responses, which was nice.

That said, peer support can be hit or miss. We loved one of our peer listeners, who offered non-judgemental listening and motivation. But another? Not so much. This person gave us advice that didn’t seem very professional. It made us question the vetting process of the platform. Just know that the level of care you receive can vary widely.

Insurance Accepted:NoSubscription Required:Not for peer support, but required in order to see a licensed mental health providerOut-of-Pocket Costs: The forums, private chat rooms, and online volunteer chat are free to use. There is also a premium version with additional resources for $12.95 per month. If you want traditional therapy with a licensed mental health professional, 7 Cups offers messaging therapy (therapist reads daily messages and responds Monday to Friday) for $159 per month or weekly 45-minute live online talk therapy sessions for $299 per month. All therapy subscriptions also include access to the premium resources.

We surveyed 100 users of 7 Cups:91% rated 7 Cups as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at 7 Cups94% are likely or very likely to recommend 7 Cups to a friend or someone like them47% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of 7 Cups:

Best for Black Communities:Therapy For Black Girls

Price:Free to useIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Children’s Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual TherapyLearn More

Therapy for Black Girls connects Black women and women-identifying therapy-seekers with providers who share and understand their identity while being able to treat depression. The directory features extensive search filters to help narrow down the type of care on offer even further. And although the directory focuses on Black women, anyone struggling with depression can use this directory to find a BIPOC provider.

ProsFocuses on therapy for the Black communityCommitted to inclusivityHas a breadth of search filtersHas a user-friendly websiteFeatures a podcast and online communityTherapists available in all 50 statesConsNo search filter for spiritualityOnly features women-identifying therapistsProviders are not required to list their fees in their bio

Focuses on therapy for the Black community

Committed to inclusivity

Has a breadth of search filters

Has a user-friendly website

Features a podcast and online community

Therapists available in all 50 states

ConsNo search filter for spiritualityOnly features women-identifying therapistsProviders are not required to list their fees in their bio

No search filter for spirituality

Only features women-identifying therapists

Providers are not required to list their fees in their bio

We liked that finding a therapist in the directory was a relatively smooth and fast process. There were plenty of search filters (though we missed seeing one for spirituality), and we got to choose from a variety of providers with open availability who accepted a range of insurance options. (This held true for our most recent testing of this directory, in May of 2024; even when we searched for providers who accepted an uncommon insurance plan, we were still presented with 17 options.) The therapist we ultimately chose gave us a free consultation and booked us for the same time each week, providing continuity. In our session, we felt seen, heard, and deeply understood.

We surveyed 100 users of Therapy For Black Girls:94% rated Therapy For Black Girls as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent94% said that most or all of their needs were met at Therapy For Black Girls98% are likely or very likely to recommend Therapy For Black Girls to a friend or someone like them64% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Therapy For Black Girls:

Best Directory:GoodTherapy

Price:FreeIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Teen CounselingLearn More

Good Therapy

GoodTherapy is a large, reputable therapist directory with a variety of providers specializing in depression. You can find clinicians who treat depression with a large range of specialties, modalities, and philosophies, including uncommon ones.

ProsLarge number of providers listedDetailed therapist biosHelpful search filtersTherapists with unusual specialties offeredFeatures quality cliniciansOffers group therapy, psychiatry, coaching, and moreConsSearch filter can be glitchyWebsite can feel overwhelmingDoes not provide online therapy on the website

Large number of providers listed

Detailed therapist bios

Helpful search filters

Therapists with unusual specialties offered

Features quality clinicians

Offers group therapy, psychiatry, coaching, and more

ConsSearch filter can be glitchyWebsite can feel overwhelmingDoes not provide online therapy on the website

Search filter can be glitchy

Website can feel overwhelming

Does not provide online therapy on the website

We testedGoodTherapy, our choice for best online therapy directory, from Michigan and New York for individual therapy and were impressed with how easy it was to find a qualified, caring therapist we were thrilled to work with. This made us confident that we would be able to find a provider who could successfully treat depression.

We surveyed 100 users of GoodTherapy:84% rated GoodTherapy as very good or excellent overall86% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at GoodTherapy97% are likely or very likely to recommend GoodTherapy to a friend or someone like them54% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of GoodTherapy:

Best With Insurance:Teladoc

Price:$119 - $299Is Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Psychiatry, Teen CounselingLearn More

Teladoc is in-network with a wide range of insurance plans, making virtual treatment for depression all the more accessible. It offers both therapy and psychiatry to support people who need extra help.

ProsAccepts insuranceCan choose your own therapistAccepts some Medicare and Medicaid plansTherapists have night and weekend availabilityExtensive search filters helped us find a good fitConsHave to sign up to see if your insurance is acceptedCannot view therapists until after sign-upWebsite can be confusing

ProsAccepts insuranceCan choose your own therapistAccepts some Medicare and Medicaid plansTherapists have night and weekend availabilityExtensive search filters helped us find a good fit

Can choose your own therapist

Accepts some Medicare and Medicaid plans

Therapists have night and weekend availability

Extensive search filters helped us find a good fit

ConsHave to sign up to see if your insurance is acceptedCannot view therapists until after sign-upWebsite can be confusing

Have to sign up to see if your insurance is accepted

Cannot view therapists until after sign-up

Website can be confusing

We asked five people to tryTeladocfrom Missouri, New York, Texas, and Ohio for individual therapy and can confidently recommend it for those seeking depression treatment from therapists who take insurance. Clinician quality was high, and we were able to find a variety of providers who accepted various payment options and schedules that worked well with ours.We were excited to see all the options and filters that allowed us to get specific in our search. Unlike with other online platforms, we could also choose our provider, which we preferred to a matching system. All too often, therapy-seekers have to turn down a good match simply because they can’t make sessions during a work day. It’s also nice that Teladoc offers psychiatry, which can be helpful for those who need extra support for their depression. It’s worth noting, however, that in one case the provider kept the camera off for video sessions, which we found disappointing. Despite this, there was helpful guidance provided in the sessions.“I like that [my therapist] was action-based and that even during the intake it felt like a comfortable conversation. She made good observations that helped me look at my situation differently. This definitely helped me feel heard and connect more."—Teladoc tester, seeking support after the stress of surgery and work/life balance challengesThere were a few providers who rubbed us the wrong way, though. One ended the session a full 20 minutes early. Another canceled minutes before our session was about to begin. In our opinion, these are examples of very unprofessional behavior, and Teladoc should work to ensure clinicians meet higher standards of care. That said, nearly every online platform we tried has included at least one similar experience.

We were excited to see all the options and filters that allowed us to get specific in our search. Unlike with other online platforms, we could also choose our provider, which we preferred to a matching system. All too often, therapy-seekers have to turn down a good match simply because they can’t make sessions during a work day. It’s also nice that Teladoc offers psychiatry, which can be helpful for those who need extra support for their depression. It’s worth noting, however, that in one case the provider kept the camera off for video sessions, which we found disappointing. Despite this, there was helpful guidance provided in the sessions.

“I like that [my therapist] was action-based and that even during the intake it felt like a comfortable conversation. She made good observations that helped me look at my situation differently. This definitely helped me feel heard and connect more."—Teladoc tester, seeking support after the stress of surgery and work/life balance challenges

—Teladoc tester, seeking support after the stress of surgery and work/life balance challenges

There were a few providers who rubbed us the wrong way, though. One ended the session a full 20 minutes early. Another canceled minutes before our session was about to begin. In our opinion, these are examples of very unprofessional behavior, and Teladoc should work to ensure clinicians meet higher standards of care. That said, nearly every online platform we tried has included at least one similar experience.

We surveyed 100 users of Teladoc:94% rated Teladoc as very good or excellent overall89% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent94% said that most or all of their needs were met at Teladoc98% are likely or very likely to recommend Teladoc to a friend or someone like them68% were seeking treatment for depression

We surveyed 100 users of Teladoc:

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Guide to Choosing the Best Online Therapy for Depression

There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing which online counseling is best. These include:

Online counseling and medication management have many benefits, such as widespread accessibility, eliminating the need to travel, and flexible scheduling. It can be a good alternative to in-person services for individuals who are dealing with a recent life transition, mild to moderate depressive symptoms, or chronic depression. Online medication management is also helpful for those who want to continue taking an antidepressant but need a more flexible and affordable option.

Online therapy and online psychiatry services are not for people in crisis, diagnosed with a severe mood disorder, experiencing psychosis, or who have imminent safety issues.

What If I’m Having Thoughts of Harming Myself?

If you are having thoughts of harming yourself and online crisis resources are not helping, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, there are products and services available in supportive peer networks. Peer Collective, our top pick for peer counseling, is a good example of one-on-one peer connection. You also may find networks online or in your community, but be sure you choose a reputable forum with people and methods you trust.Yes. TheSuicide and Crisis Lifeline, 988, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “HOME” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. Beyond the crisis setting, there are online peer counseling sites available, although those involve trained peer listeners rather than licensed mental health professionals. You also can see if no-cost help is available through yourinsurance coverage. Some providers offer sliding scale rates.Online therapy for depression provides emotional support and access to coping solutions that may limit the impact of depressive symptoms in your life. Online therapy and medication management can help but for those diagnosed with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, in-person services are a better option.Online help for depression involves speaking with a therapist or psychiatrist via video, audio, messaging, or live chat. Online therapy provides the same treatment as in-person therapy, but it can be more accessible for individuals who need a flexible schedule or lower costs per session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are products and services available in supportive peer networks. Peer Collective, our top pick for peer counseling, is a good example of one-on-one peer connection. You also may find networks online or in your community, but be sure you choose a reputable forum with people and methods you trust.

Yes. TheSuicide and Crisis Lifeline, 988, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “HOME” to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. Beyond the crisis setting, there are online peer counseling sites available, although those involve trained peer listeners rather than licensed mental health professionals. You also can see if no-cost help is available through yourinsurance coverage. Some providers offer sliding scale rates.

Online therapy for depression provides emotional support and access to coping solutions that may limit the impact of depressive symptoms in your life. Online therapy and medication management can help but for those diagnosed with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, in-person services are a better option.

Online help for depression involves speaking with a therapist or psychiatrist via video, audio, messaging, or live chat. Online therapy provides the same treatment as in-person therapy, but it can be more accessible for individuals who need a flexible schedule or lower costs per session.

To curate this list of the best online help for depression, we researched, tested, and surveyed 100 users of 55 online therapy providers and 100 users of 27 online therapy directories. During the vetting process, we gave special attention to the online providers that prioritized inclusion, easy access to therapy, and affordability, whether through accepting insurance, offering sliding scale fees, or offering low-cost subscription plans. We also looked for providers that were available nationwide, were HIPAA-compliant, and covered a range of services, including medication management and specialty therapies.

Woman researching on laptop

Article SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Institute of Mental Health.Major depression.National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Understanding alcohol use disorder.

Article Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Institute of Mental Health.Major depression.National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Understanding alcohol use disorder.

National Institute of Mental Health.Major depression.National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Understanding alcohol use disorder.

National Institute of Mental Health.Major depression.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Understanding alcohol use disorder.

Hannah Owens, LMSW

Amanda Tust

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Our Online Therapy Methodology#

Most Comprehensive:Brightside#

Best on a Budget:Open Path Collective#

Best for Psychiatry:Talkiatry#

Best for LGBTQIA+:National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network#

Best for Couples:ReGain#

Best for Substance Use:Monument#

Best for Peer Counseling:Peer Collective#

Best for Finding a Therapist:TherapyDen#

Best for Free:7 Cups#

Best for Black Communities:Therapy For Black Girls#

Best Directory:GoodTherapy#

Best With Insurance:Teladoc#

Guide to Choosing the Best Online Therapy for Depression#

What If I’m Having Thoughts of Harming Myself?#

Frequently Asked Questions#