Short answer — there’s no one “best” for everyone. It depends on what you need (ADHD vs depression vs complex psychiatric illness), whether you want to use insurance, and whether you need controlled substances. Here are strong options by use case and why they stand out: Brightside Health — Best for evidence-based medication management for depression and anxiety. Uses measurement-based care, coordinated therapy options, and regular follow-ups to adjust meds. Good for ongoing, outcomes-focused care. Doctor On Demand (Urgent Care/Behavioral Health by operating company) — Best if you want psychiatrists who take insurance. Established telehealth provider with board-certified psychiatrists and the ability to bill many major insurers and Medicare/Medicaid in some states. Done — Best focused service for ADHD medication management. Specializes in ADHD, offers repeat prescribing of stimulants with structured monitoring and relatively fast start times. Talkspace (Talkspace Medical) — Good if you want combined therapy + psychiatric medication management in one platform. Convenient messaging/video and care continuity; helpful for people who want an integrated approach. Teladoc / Amwell / MDLive — Best if you want broad national coverage and multi-specialty telehealth including psychiatry. Often integrated with insurers and employers and useful if you prefer a big, established telemedicine company. Quick safety/selection tips Controlled substances: many platforms restrict or require in-person evaluation or state-specific rules for stimulants and benzodiazepines. If you need those meds, ask upfront if they prescribe them in your state. Complexity: if you have bipolar disorder, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, or complicated medical issues, an in-person psychiatrist or local specialist is usually safer. Insurance vs self-pay: check whether the service accepts your insurance (or offers sliding-scale) — some high-quality services are cash-only subscriptions. Labs and monitoring: ask how the platform handles labs (e.g., lithium, drug screens) and communication with your PCP. Crisis: if you are in immediate danger or suicidal, call local emergency services or 988 (US) right away. If you tell me what condition you’re seeking medication for, what state you live in, and whether you want to use insurance, I can recommend the single best option for your situation.
Read full answer with sources →Online therapy
Virtual therapy and psychiatry platforms matching patients with licensed clinicians.
| # | Brand | AI visibility | Trend | Avg position | Mentions | History |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 86.5% | ▲ 3.2 pp | 2.9 | 45 | ||
| 2 | 75.0% | ▲ 1.7 pp | 1.8 | 39 | ||
| 3 | 28.8% | ▼ 1.2 pp▲ 1 place | 3.3 | 15 | ||
| 4 | 26.9% | ▼ 6.4 pp▼ 1 place | 4.5 | 14 | ||
| 5 | 25.0% | ▼ 1.7 pp | 4.2 | 13 | ||
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Selling online therapy? See the answers you are losing.
The free AI Visibility Audit maps every question above to your brand: where you show up, where competitors win, and which sources decide it.
Visibility by engine
Share of each engine's answers mentioning the brand, latest day.
| Brand | ChatGPT | Claude | Perplexity | Google AI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Talkspace | 100% | 85% | 69% | 92% |
| BetterHelp | 85% | 85% | 54% | 77% |
| Cerebral | 15% | 62% | 8% | 31% |
| Amwell | 62% | 0% | 0% | 46% |
| Open Path Collective | 39% | 46% | 15% | 0% |
| Psychology Today | 54% | 15% | 0% | 31% |
| Brightside Health | 31% | 15% | 15% | 15% |
| Brightside | 8% | 46% | 8% | 15% |
Most cited sources
The sites AI engines lean on when answering online therapy questions. This is where AI visibility is won.
- reddit.com92
- talkspace.com78
- helpguide.org77
- healthline.com63
- betterhelp.com55
- growtherapy.com51
- pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov43
- openpathcollective.org30
Tracked buyer intent questions
The full set of 15customer questions for this category. Three run each day in rotation, so the whole set is covered every five days. Today's three are highlighted.
- discoveryI think I need therapy but cannot afford 200 dollars per session. What are my options?
- discoveryWhat are the best online therapy platforms in 2026?
- qualifiedWhich online therapy platforms take insurance?
- validationDoes online therapy actually work as well as in person therapy?
- pricingHow much does online therapy cost per month?
- qualifiedWhat is the best online therapy for anxiety?
- qualifiedHow do I find a therapist quickly without a long waitlist?Today
- qualifiedWhat is the best online psychiatry service for medication management?Today
- comparisonOnline therapy platforms vs mental health apps: what is the difference?Today
- pricingWhat are the best affordable therapy options without insurance?
- validationHow do I know if an online therapist is licensed and legit?
- qualifiedWhat is the best online couples therapy?
- qualifiedWhat is the best online therapy for teenagers?
- validationCan I switch therapists easily on online therapy platforms?
- qualifiedWhat is the best online therapy for depression that includes medication support?
Recent AI answers
Short answer Online therapy platforms connect you with licensed mental-health professionals (therapists, psychologists, sometimes psychiatrists) for scheduled or on-demand psychotherapy and/or medication management. Mental‑health apps deliver self‑guided tools (meditation, CBT exercises, mood tracking, chatbots) and are generally not therapy — they’re for skill-building, symptom tracking, and short-term support. Key differences (quick bullets) Who provides care: Platforms = licensed clinicians; Apps = automated programs or coaches (some apps offer clinician access as paid add‑ons). Type of care: Platforms = psychotherapy and sometimes medication management; Apps = self‑help modules, guided meditation, CBT exercises, bots. Evidence & regulation: Therapists are licensed and subject to professional rules. Apps vary widely in evidence; a few have clinical studies, most are consumer products, not regulated medical treatment. Communication: Platforms use video/phone/text sessions with real people. Apps use interactive exercises, audio, push notifications, and sometimes AI chat. Cost & insurance: Platforms often cost more (~$50–$200+/week) and may or may not accept insurance; many apps are low‑cost or freemium ($0–$15/month for premium). Suitability: Severe or complex conditions, risk of self‑harm, or need for meds → use an online therapy/psychiatry platform. Mild anxiety, stress, sleep, habit building → an app can help. Examples and when to choose them BetterHelp — online platform for affordable, flexible video/phone/text therapy with licensed clinicians. Good if you want regular talk therapy and flexible communication. Talkspace — similar to BetterHelp, offers therapy and (in some regions) psychiatry/med management. Good if you prefer messaging-based therapy options. Brightside — focuses on clinically based care for depression/anxiety, including medication management plus therapy. Good if you want coordinated med + therapy care. Lyra Health / Spring Health — employer/benefit programs that connect you to therapists and psychiatry with employer coverage. Good if you have employer access and want in-network options. Mental‑health apps (self‑guided) Headspace — guided meditation and sleep programs. Good for stress, sleep, and mindfulness starters; evidence for reduced stress. Calm — meditation, sleep stories, breathing exercises. Great for sleep and relaxation. Woebot — chatbot using CBT techniques with evidence from trials. Good for daily low‑intensity support and learning CBT skills. Wysa — AI chatbot plus human coaching options. Good for on‑the‑go emotional support and skills practice. Sanvello (was Pacifica) — CBT-based tools, mood tracking, community. Good for structured self‑help for anxiety/depression. How to choose Severity: If you have suicidal thoughts, self-harm, psychosis, severe depression, or complex diagnosis → seek licensed clinician/psychiatry (online therapy or emergency services). Need for medication: Use a platform that provides psychiatric evaluation and prescribing. Budget & convenience: Apps are cheaper and immediate; therapy is more personalized but more expensive and requires appointments. Evidence: Look for apps/platforms with published research and transparent privacy policies. Licensing/coverage: Check that the therapist is licensed in your state/country and whether the service accepts your insurance or EAP. Privacy & safety Read privacy policies: apps may collect and sell de‑identified data; clinicians are bound by confidentiality laws (with exceptions for safety). Not for crises: If you’re at imminent risk, call local emergency services or your country’s crisis line (in the U.S. dial 988). If you want, tell me: Your main concern (anxiety, depression, sleep, relationship issues, medication needs) Whether cost or insurance is important I can recommend 2–3 specific services/apps tailored to your needs.
Read full answer with sources →Online Therapy Platforms vs. Mental Health Apps These are quite different, and choosing the right one matters a lot. Online Therapy Platforms Connect you with licensed human therapists via video, phone, or text Examples: BetterHelp – largest platform, affordable subscription model, wide therapist selection Talkspace – good for messaging-based therapy, accepts some insurance Cerebral – includes medication management, good for anxiety/depression Brightside – specializes specifically in anxiety and depression Best for: Diagnosed conditions, trauma, relationship issues, anything requiring real clinical judgment Mental Health Apps Self-guided tools using exercises, tracking, and sometimes AI Examples: Headspace – meditation and stress reduction Calm – sleep and anxiety relief Woebot – AI-based CBT exercises (not a therapist) Daylio – mood tracking and journaling Best for: Stress management, building habits, mild anxiety, supplementing therapy Key Differences Factor Therapy Platforms Mental Health Apps Licensed professional ✅ Yes ❌ No Cost $60–$100+/week Free–$15/month Crisis support Limited Generally none Clinical treatment ✅ Yes ❌ No Bottom line: Apps are wellness tools; therapy platforms provide actual treatment. For serious mental health concerns, choose a therapy platform.
Read full answer with sources →Best Online Psychiatry Services for Medication Management Top Recommendations Talkiatry - Best overall Employs in-network psychiatrists (not just NPs) Accepts most major insurance Good for complex medication needs Cerebral - Best for common conditions Specializes in anxiety, depression, and ADHD Affordable subscription model Has faced some scrutiny, so worth researching current reviews Brightside Health - Best for depression/anxiety specifically Evidence-based approach Combines therapy + medication management well Accepts insurance Done or Ahead - Best for ADHD medication Focused specifically on ADHD assessment and treatment Key Things to Consider Insurance coverage - Talkiatry wins here Condition complexity - More complex cases benefit from MD/DO psychiatrists vs. nurse practitioners Controlled substances - Policies vary; some services have restrictions on stimulants or benzodiazepines Wait times - Can vary significantly My Top Pick Talkiatry is generally the strongest choice because using board-certified psychiatrists and accepting insurance makes it more comparable to traditional in-person care. Would you like more details about any specific condition or concern?
Read full answer with sources →When considering mental wellness tools, it's easy to get confused between online therapy platforms and mental health apps. While both aim to support your mental well-being, they offer different levels of service and engagement. Here's a breakdown of the key differences to help you decide what's right for you: Online Therapy Platforms Online therapy platforms connect you with licensed mental health professionals (like therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists) for real-time, personalized support. Think of it as a traditional therapy session, but conducted remotely through video calls, phone calls, or messaging. Key Features: Licensed Professionals: You'll be working with individuals who have undergone formal training and are licensed to practice therapy. Personalized Treatment Plans: Therapists can diagnose conditions, develop tailored treatment strategies, and adapt them as you progress. Direct Therapeutic Relationship: You build a rapport with a specific therapist who understands your history and needs. Variety of Modalities: Sessions can be live video, phone calls, or secure messaging, offering flexibility. Prescription Capabilities (with Psychiatrists): Some platforms have psychiatrists who can prescribe medication if necessary. Who they're best for: Individuals dealing with significant mental health challenges like depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, or relationship issues. Those who benefit from a structured, ongoing therapeutic relationship. People who need a diagnosis or medication management. Anyone seeking a deeper dive into their issues with professional guidance. Recommended Brands: BetterHelp: This is one of the largest online therapy platforms, offering a wide network of licensed therapists. They match you with a therapist based on your needs and preferences, and you can communicate via messaging, phone, and video. It's known for its accessibility and variety of professional backgrounds. Talkspace: Similar to BetterHelp, Talkspace provides access to licensed therapists for messaging, phone, and video sessions. They emphasize their network of therapists and offer various subscription plans to fit different budgets. They also have specialized programs for different needs, like grief or addiction. Amwell: Amwell offers a broader range of telehealth services, including mental health. You can connect with therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists for a variety of mental health concerns. They often have strong partnerships with insurance providers, making it potentially more affordable for some. Mental Health Apps Mental health apps are typically self-guided tools designed to support your mental well-being through exercises, tracking, and psychoeducation. They are generally more accessible, often free or low-cost, and you can use them on your own schedule. Key Features: Self-Guided Exercises: Apps offer tools like guided meditations, breathing exercises, mood trackers, journaling prompts, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) exercises. Skill-Building: They aim to teach you coping mechanisms and strategies to manage everyday stress, anxiety, or low moods. Convenience and Accessibility: Available on your smartphone, you can use them anytime, anywhere. Data Tracking: Many apps allow you to track your mood, sleep, and other wellness metrics to identify patterns. Educational Content: Some apps provide articles, videos, and information about mental health topics. Who they're best for: Individuals looking for tools to manage everyday stress, improve sleep, or boost their mood. People who want to develop mindfulness and coping skills. Those who prefer a self-directed approach to mental wellness. As a supplementary tool alongside traditional therapy. People who are on a tight budget and seeking free or low-cost options. Recommended Brands: Calm: This app is a leader in meditation and sleep. It offers a vast library of guided meditations, sleep stories, breathing exercises, and relaxing music. It's excellent for stress reduction and improving sleep quality. Headspace: Similar to Calm, Headspace focuses on mindfulness and meditation. It provides structured courses on various topics like stress, anxiety, and focus, making it great for beginners looking to build a meditation habit. Moodpath: This app is designed to help you understand your mood and mental health. It uses a series of questions to assess your well-being and provides personalized feedback and exercises. It can be a good tool for self-monitoring and identifying patterns. Sanvello: Sanvello offers a combination of self-guided tools, community support, and even access to coaching and therapy (though the latter may come at an additional cost or through specific plans). It's known for its comprehensive approach, incorporating CBT techniques and mood tracking. In Summary: Think of it this way: online therapy platforms offer a doctor for your mental health needs, providing professional diagnosis and treatment. Mental health apps are like a personal trainer or wellness coach, equipping you with tools and exercises to improve your daily well-being. Many people find success using both in conjunction. If you're unsure, consulting with a primary care physician or a mental health professional can help you determine the best path for your specific needs.
Read full answer with sources →Online therapy platforms connect you with a licensed human therapist or psychiatrist for live or scheduled care, while mental health apps are usually self-guided software tools for things like meditation, mood tracking, CBT exercises, journaling, or AI chat support.[1][2] The practical difference is the kind of help you get: Online therapy platforms: real-time or asynchronous sessions with a clinician who can diagnose, provide psychotherapy, and sometimes manage medication-related care.[1][2][9] Mental health apps: automated or self-paced tools designed for coping, skill-building, and symptom tracking, often aimed at stress, sleep, or routine support rather than formal treatment.[1][2][5] A simple way to think about it is: Feature Online therapy platforms Mental health apps Who you interact with Licensed therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist[1][2] Software, sometimes with coaches or AI chatbots[1][2] Main purpose Psychotherapy and clinical support[1][2] Self-help, tracking, coping tools, wellness support[1][5] Format Video, phone, or messaging with a clinician[1][11] Self-paced modules, meditations, reminders, chatbot interactions[1][2] Best for Diagnosable conditions, moderate-to-severe symptoms, ongoing therapy needs[1][2][9] Mild stress, habit support, sleep, daily coping, early self-help[1][5] Regulation/privacy Clinicians are licensed and bound by professional confidentiality rules[1] Varies widely; some are wellness products, others may be regulated if they claim to treat a condition[5] If you want personalized treatment from a licensed professional, choose an online therapy platform.[1][2] If you want lower-cost, everyday tools to support your mental health, choose a mental health app.[1][2] Well-known examples of online therapy platforms include BetterHelp and Talkspace, which connect users with licensed therapists through app-based messaging or sessions.[12] Common mental health apps include meditation, mood-tracking, and CBT-style self-help apps, which are not the same as therapy even if they may include some therapeutic techniques.[1][5][12] If you want, I can also give you a “which one should I choose?” guide based on your specific situation and budget.
Read full answer with sources →