Where can you find the best online grief counseling? If you've experienced a loss of any type, you may be considering seeking counseling to get through your pain. Online therapy can be a more convenient method of receiving therapy since you don't have to go anywhere. This is also very helpful for those in a remote location or an area without therapists. Those with a disability who may have difficulty traveling to an office benefit from online therapy as well. Often, people find they are more able to open up in an online session due to feeling more comfortable in their homes than in a new location.
Best Option
Wanting to help you start feeling better and more in control of your life, BetterHelp is a network of more than 34,000 licensed and vetted professional therapists providing 100% online counseling. Having helped over 5 million people, they can assist you with different techniques and approaches to work through your grief.
Easy to get matched with help through many options offered
When you go to the BetterHelp website, you will be asked the type of therapy you are seeking. Be aware that only individual adults can be treated via the BetterHelp platform. If you are seeking couples counseling or help for a minor, you will be redirected. After that initial basic question, the online quiz AI will work to help you find the best therapist option for you, but BetterHelp says you always have the option to switch to a new therapist. While easy to answer, the questions are designed to help match you with the professional who may be best able to help you, including your gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, and prior therapy experiences.
Find a grief counselor
To specifically reach a grief counselor, you will select "I am grieving" when you get to the reason you are considering therapy - though you can also mark other answers from their choices, including "other." You'll be asked about your expectations from your therapist and given a short depression screening. Some health and habit questions follow. Another question you'll encounter asks which resources may be useful to you, including support groups, therapy journaling, worksheets, goal or habit tracking, and educational webinars. You are asked your communication preference with your therapist - mostly messaging or mostly talking- and given the option to decide later. If you have any specific preferences for a therapist - gender, religious approach, age, sexual orientation, and race, you can choose that or skip. Different languages may be an option if desired, including American Sign Language, Arabic, Italian, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Yoruba. One final question about income (not numbers but who you are - student, veteran, disabled, and unemployed are some of the options), and then you are led to create an account with your email address before you are matched with a therapist. You will be matched with a therapist or counselor in about 48 hours, allowing you to instantly message and schedule live sessions.
You can also choose your own therapist
Aside from matching you to a therapist, the website also allows you to browse therapists in your state, filtering by specialty, language, therapist identity, and other traits about the therapist (as noted in the process above). BetterHelp therapist profiles show a photo of the professional, as well as his qualifications, area of specialty, short bio, counseling options, years of experience, clinical approaches, and even some reviews from BetterHelp clients. Since counseling is such a personal experience, we are grateful for this specialized feedback regarding the practitioners offering therapy. All of the professionals on BetterHelp are psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and board licensed professional counselors. They must undergo background reports and complete a case study prior to being accepted on the BetterHelp platform. Even though it appears that though you can request therapy with your chosen provider, you will still need to complete the AI questionnaire.
Access therapy by multiple methods
BetterHelp offers four methods to access counseling on their platform. You may exchange messages, chat live, speak over the phone, or participate in video conferencing. If desired, these methods may be combined based on client needs, availability, and convenience. All care is accessed through the BetterHelp account on their website, providing access to previous messages between you and your counselor. A highly-rated app is available on both Android and iOS platforms, though it is not mentioned on their website at all. This can make it easier to access your account on your various devices. Your privacy is important, so your session is protected by data privacy laws with state-of-the-art technology to safeguard your information. Messages between you and your therapist are secured and encrypted by banking-grade methods. If you'd like, you may use a nickname, though you will be required to provide contact information for emergency situations and to fulfill therapists' licensing board guidelines.
Only downside is unclear cost
Disappointingly, it is difficult to get an exact cost on BetterHelp. You won't know the exact amount of your therapy until you are matched with your provider., though therapy is a subscription billed every four weeks via BetterHelp, ranging from $260 to $400 per month, with cancellation permitted at any time. (Look for a discount at the top of the welcome page.) BetterHelp says they are working with select insurance carriers to join their networks, though some therapists accept insurance on a limited basis. Until your insurance is accepted, they suggest using your HSA/FSA card for payment as their therapy is recognized as an eligible expense by most providers.
No meds available here
Psychologists and psychiatrists are unable to prescribe medication, make an official diagnosis, or fulfill court-ordered therapy via the BetterHelp platform.
Gives back to the community
Partnering with over a hundred non-profits to donate free therapy, BetterHelp strives to break down barriers to access counseling. They give discounts and financial aid to cover therapy costs for low-income individuals as well.
Stellar online reviews put this service at the top
Accredited by the BBB, BetterHelp has an impressive "A+" rating, though they have received hundreds of complaints over the past three years, related primarily to billing issues. Across online review platforms, BetterHelp earns 4.06-4.2 stars out of 5 from over 9,000 reviews. Pleased clients called it a "modern and efficient way to access competent professionals," with excellent counseling experiences, mentioning counselors by name even. Negative reviewers rant against connection issues, subscription auto-renewals, and disappointing experiences with therapists. However, with over 7,300 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, BetterHelp can't help but be a solid option for online grief counseling.
Our top choice for online grief counseling
When you're grieving, you want to find someone you can trust to help you through the process. BetterHelp offers vetted therapists to work with you at a reasonable cost through your choice of methods including messages, live chat, video, and phone. Combine these benefits with the 7,300 perfect customer reviews and it's easy to see why BetterHelp is the top provider for online grief therapy.
Great
Talkspace offers licensed therapy for grief counseling and other issues from 5,700 licensed providers. This service has benefitted over a million members since its inception in 2012.
Payment information before matching
To start at Talkspace, they recommend checking your insurance eligibility, though they will accept out-of-pocket payments. Then you can answer questions to be matched with one of their licensed providers, choosing your plan and providing payment information prior to being matched - though it says you won't be charged until you're matched and you can switch plans or cancel anytime. (This is definitely not something most people will want to do while still trying to decide if this is the service they want to use.)
Match or choose your therapist - some confusion
One slightly confusing aspect of the Talkspace website is the fact that you have to be matched yet they allow you to view profiles for therapists and check their availability. It appears that perhaps you can choose your own therapist, though they don't make it easy to find this option. (Look at the drop-down menu for services and then find a therapist near me). Once you do get to this option, you're able to indicate your state, concern (grief and other options are selections you can make), and insurance (which you can skip). Bios of therapists include their photo, a brief note, specialties, insurance accepted, qualifications, language, and treatment approach. Methods mentioned in regards to grief therapy include cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, traumatic grief therapy, and complicated grief therapy. Those are the more common approaches used, though it will vary depending on the type of grief you are experiencing. You can switch therapists at any time for no cost on Talkspace.
Your therapy, your way
Plans on the Talkspace platform include unlimited daily messaging with your therapist and some HIPAA-compliant live sessions on your choice of video, audio, or text. The website says they have a guaranteed response time, but no other details are given. Talkspace offers a highly-rated app for both Android and iOS platforms; it can be used for signing up for therapy, scheduling appointments, messaging, and live sessions. Sessions must be canceled at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time to avoid being charged a fee or losing a session credit. Individuals can receive therapy on Talkspace, as well as teens and couples. Psychiatry is also offered for people 18 and older.
Confusion over subscription pricing
The website for Talkspace says most insured members have $0 copays and they even accept Medicare. They say that a typical insurance copay may be $15 but out-of-pocket plans start at $69 per week. When we put in our information, we did not see a plan that low and instead the lowest option was $76 per week ($304 per month) - a plan that only included messaging therapy. To have access to video therapy, the cost jumped to $436 per month for a weekly 30-minute session which also permitted messaging. A third option at $480 per month included everything already mentioned plus weekly workshops (though no other information was mentioned about what the workshop entails). These subscription plans may be canceled at any time. Unfortunately, this information is only listed once you start the "find my therapist" process and cannot be accessed anywhere else on the website. They certainly don't make it easy to know details of their service.
Personalized podcasts included
A unique offering from Talkspace is their AI-generated Talkcast personalized podcast which is designed to help members "stay engaged and working towards their mental health goals."
Solid customer reviews
Accredited by the BBB, Talkspace has earned an impressive "A+" rating. Across online review platforms, most users agree, giving the company a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars (the exception being a 1.35 on the BBB from 90 reviews). Pleased users cite positive therapy experiences, the flexible program, and ease of switching therapists. Negatives noted included technology issues (on both website and app), therapist-canceled appointments, billing issues, and customer service complaints.
A great option for online grief therapy
Providing online therapy by a myriad of methods, Talkspace stands out because of its nearly 800 glowing customer reviews. While we would like the website to be less confusing, we're willing to overlook this due to the positive experiences that users have had with the platform. As a result, we can highly recommend Talkspace as you're seeking online grief therapy.
Very Good
Online-Therapy offers therapy for adult individuals and couples, including grief counseling. Since their inception in 2009 as the world's first and leading platform for online therapy, this platform claims to have the "most complete online therapy toolbox" for clients.
Quick onboarding process
A quick onboarding process is one benefit of using Online-Therapy. Choose from individual or couples therapy and then indicate what your need is (grief is listed under more options). Indicate your preferences regarding the therapist and type of live sessions you would prefer, followed by a description of your financial status before you create an account and check out. Once you sign up, Online-Therapy will match you with a therapist who best fits your requirements to help you through your personalized situation. You may switch therapists at any time if desired. Alternatively, you can browse therapists by your location (they are in 41 states plus Puerto Rico).
Focused on CBT and tools for growth with professional counselors and psychologists
Therapists at Online-Therapy are all trained in the science-based treatment method of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). When browsing bios, it's easy to quickly see their qualifications and areas of specialty (including grief). You can conveniently check the therapist's live session availability or read a more in-depth bio if desired. The icons indicate the ways you can access therapy with the provider, including messaging, video, phone, and text chat. Online-Therapy professionals are licensed professional counselors, clinical psychologists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed clinical professional counselors. They say that unlike other services, their professionals do more than chat with you to provide temporary relief to your situation, instead providing skills to help you move through your grief.
Myriad of ways to access therapy
Online-Therapy offers therapy sessions in video, voice only, or text messaging. Their toolbox can be accessed wherever you access the internet - no app needed. All information is encrypted on their secure server, and Online-Therapy is HIPAA compliant.
Subscriptions offered but insurance not accepted
Online-Therapy has multiple subscription plans to cover your therapy, but they do not accept any insurance. However, they do offer a discount for your first month, and if you are still in need of help, financial aid is available. Just apply at checkout. There are three levels of plans for individuals:
Pausing your subscription is permitted
If you want to take a break from therapy and keep your prepaid subscription, Online-Therapy makes it easy to pause for one to four weeks. You won't be charged during this time and the renewal date is moved forward, allowing you to resume at any time prior to the end of the pause. Refund requests may be considered should you forget to cancel your subscription, though you cannot receive a refund for services. A 24-hour cancellation policy for live therapy sessions applies.
Toolbox to help you grow is part of their experience
For a more complete experience, Online-Therapy includes multiple "tools" for their clients in addition to the therapy sessions. Primarily there is a self-help online CBT course with interactive worksheets for all clients. Live chat messages (video, voice only, or text chat), a journal, an activity plan, and yoga and meditation videos may be included, depending on your subscription level. They say these tools work together to help you grow through your challenges and "become an even happier you."
Mostly positive but limited feedback
Many online review websites and blogs have ranked Online-Therapy among their best for affordability, educational resources, cognitive behavioral therapy, making lasting changes, and anxiety. The Online-Therapy website even shares client reviews which are very positive (4 and 5 stars for the ones we saw), but it's definitely a challenge to find independent reviews for this platform. The company is not listed on the BBB at all. Independent reviews are scattered throughout the internet, and one reviewer noted that some people might not enjoy the amount of homework and called the worksheets "too rigid." On Trustpilot, the company has received an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars, but it's only for 60 reviews, which is not nearly enough for a company that's been around for over 15 years. Pleased reviewers mentioned the positive changes they've made as a result of therapy received, convenience of the service, and the abundance of resources. Negative reviewers mentioned difficulty connecting with therapists and unreliable technology for accessing live sessions. We like to hear good experiences but would need to see more feedback to move them up on our list.
Solid choice for grief therapy online
With so many ways to help their clients grow, Online-Therapy is a great option with positive reviews. We like that they offer financial aid and different levels of support to help those dealing with grief, placing them as an excellent choice on our list.
Good
Calmerry knows that each person's grief journey is unique and offers personalized support for those seeking counseling to help them on their path toward healing. A recent addition to the online therapy market, they have been working with clients since 2020.
Get help quickly
In just an hour, you can connect with an online grief counselor at Calmerry. First, before you even complete a survey, you are required to create an online account. The survey, which they claim will take about five minutes, asks your name and some other personal details. Then it jumps into your mental health background with basic questions, though it does ask you to describe the problem that led you to Calmerry. There is an option to skip some questions until you reach the depression assessment. Next you are permitted to choose from their matched counselors (we were given two selections) - with a photo, short bio, specialities, treatment approaches, education, and language - or ask them to find you a counselor if you don't connect to their choices. Finally, choose a plan (they'll give you a recommendation) and pay for it.
Matching you with an experienced professional using scientific therapy methods
With more than 1,000 licensed clinical psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors who have an average practice experience of seven years, Calmerry's professionals partner with you on your journey to healing. They utilize advanced client-counselor matching to help you find a good partner to walk through your grief with you. Counselors at Calmerry use scientifically proven approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. While you cannot choose your own counselor, you can change your therapist at any time during your treatment. Additionally, some are available for evening and weekend sessions if that is something you need.
Unique tools plus text or video therapy sessions
Reflective exercises and insightful tips will be part of the counseling at Calmerry to help you navigate your grief. They provide access to in-depth articles and resources specifically for those who have experienced loss to lead you through coping mechanisms and stages of grief on the path to recovery. Clients are given the choice between video or text sessions for therapy. A daily mood tracker, guided journal, and digital worksheets add to the benefits provided. HIPAA-compliant messaging therapy is offered without an appointment or per-session fee - instead there is a flat monthly fee for unlimited texting. This type of therapy at Calmerry is especially for those who are more comfortable expressing feelings in written words, can't commit to a regular meeting time, and don't need medication management. Responses to your messages will be sent during business hours within 24 hours, possibly once or twice a day. The video sessions are 30 minutes long but may be held back-to-back for a longer discussion, and additional video sessions may be purchased. Calmerry says they uphold the highest standards of confidentiality by offering encrypted sessions and discreet billing. Communications, including text message therapy, remain secure when using their telehealth platform.
Different plans offered but insurance not accepted
Calmerry has different plans available with plans that consider your current needs, availability, and severity of your grief. Text therapy starts at $228 per month, billed as a subscription, while video therapy starts at four 30-minute live sessions per month for $250 per month. For those preferring a combination or the two types of therapy, there are messaging plus video packages for $310 (two videos plus texting) and $360 (4 videos plus texting) per month. The website says "Try one 60-minute video session to see how online therapy works" but the link to learn more simply directs to the page about video call therapy, not giving any details about how this works with their subscription pricing model. Look for a coupon code banner across the website to save on costs.
Insurance and financial aid
They do not take insurance but offer receipts upon request if you want to submit to insurance for reimbursement. If you need financial aid, they may offer you up to a 30% discount for three months with any plan, though you need to contact support for more information and to see if you qualify. Plans may be upgraded or downgraded as desired and will occur during the next billing period. You can cancel your subscription at any time, though refunds for unused sessions are only permitted during the first seven days.
Free tools for anyone to use
The Calmerry website features a blog with helpful articles on relationships and advice for coping with grief, as well as a mood tracker and guided journaling which may be used by anyone without an active paid subscription.
Limited reviews show one-third displeased
Calmerry is not accredited by the BBB but has an "A+" rating with just two complaints in three years. Online reviews are limited, though out of 60 on Trustpilot, the company received 4.3 out of 5 stars. However, when you break down the numbers, that's only just over half giving the platform 5 stars. Nearly a third of reviewers gave them one star. Unhappy clients rant about billing disputes, unprofessional and unresponsive therapists, and bad customer service. Pleased users rave about the convenience of messaging, value of help received, and ease of switching therapists. We'd like to see less negative reviews before we can move them up on our list of recommended providers.
Just above average
We appreciate many things about Calmerry, including their grief-focused therapy and tools provided. However, we are hesitant to recommend them more than just above average due to the high number of unhappy reviewers.
Good
Cerebral's team of over 600 clinicians has helped more than half a million clients across the United States receive online therapy and medication management. The company has been offering grief counseling and other treatment since 1995.
Get an appointment within 24 hours
Before you sign up with Cerebral, you may choose whether you're interested in receiving therapy, medication, or a combination of services and indicate if you are paying cash or using insurance. Then you'll be able to see available professionals who are licensed in your state and learn a bit about them before you book your first session. You can filter by gender, specialties (grief & loss is one listed here), and time of day (7 am-10pm), plus indicating if you'd like to meet with someone within 24 hours. (We like that there is this option for those in a more acute situation.) Each mini-profile includes a photo, licensing, approach to care, specialties, and next available session, though a full bio is available if desired which provides more personal details. If the therapist accepts insurance, their in-network insurers will be listed. You will be prompted to create an account to confirm the appointment.
Assessed professionals provide proven care
All therapists go through an assessment and approval process prior to joining Cerebral. They have a wide range of experience and backgrounds including minorities and LGBTQIA+ experience. Some of the 35 evidence-based approaches utilized by Cerebral professionals include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). If desired, you can switch therapists anytime for any reason.
App to access phone or video sessions
There is a highly-rated Cerebral app available for both Android and iOS platforms, which makes it easy to schedule appointments, see your progress, and message your care team. Phone or video sessions are available with or without insurance, which may be 45 to 60 minutes in length. Additionally, they will send you a regular mental health assessment check-in once a month.
Insurance accepted, but out-of-pocket spend can be high
Since Cerebral takes insurance, you can choose to use it and get a cost estimate at sign-up, with the average co-pay per session being $30. For those paying out-of-pocket for insurance, the cost is $175 per session and it is FSA/HSA eligible. To save money, they offer subscription plans for three months of sessions at $795. A combination medication and therapy plan, or just medication plan, is offered as well.
Concerns regarding lawsuit mixed with overwhelming pleased reviews
While Cerebral is not accredited by the BBB, the company has an "A" rating. However, that rating has an alert, mentioning that there was a government lawsuit which sided against them to result in refunds for 40,000 clients who were allegedly billed despite cancellation requests. Cerebral has only had seven complaints closed in the past year, complaining about difficulty in reaching customer service and questioning ethical practices. Across online review platforms, clients give the platform 1.02 to 4.4 stars, with the lowest amount coming from those on the BBB from 51 customers. Scattered user experience reviews are also available, though over 3,400 reviewers on Trustpilot give them 5 stars. Positive reviewers note the good service and quick booking while some mention therapists by name. Negative comments mentioned issues with Cerebral's customer service, hidden fees, and difficulty reaching providers. We like to see that many 5-star reviews but we are concerned about those hidden fees and the related government lawsuit about refunds.
Not our top choice
While at first glance Cerebral appears to be a great choice for allowing clients to choose their therapists, accepting insurance, and providing evidence-based therapy, a closer look reveals the cracks in their program. Out-of-pocket session costs are much higher than other online platforms and that lawsuit keeps us from placing them any higher than above average on our list.
Average
Brightside Health offers a fully remote team of professionals using technology to provide enhanced, quality mental health care for teens and adults. Claiming to have 50% higher response and remission rates than a leading U.S. health system, they are committed to delivering "life-changing anxiety and depression care" to anyone in need across the United States.
Provide info and pay before seeing providers
Offering quick guidance and support within a matter of hours, Brightside Health says you will be able to get an appointment as soon as two days. To get started, you will complete a free assessment and be matched with a personalized plan recommendation. The questionnaire asks how they can help you today, and while grief is not specifically listed, you can mark "something else" or choose one of the diagnoses they do list. A depression screening is next, followed by creating an online account. You will be shown your assessment results (complete with a depression and anxiety score) before you are led through choosing a plan, where you will be prompted to pay or provide insurance information. Then you will be able to look at providers and book an appointment. (We really feel uncomfortable being required to pay before we know who will provide the therapy.)
Combine psychiatry and therapy if desired
You can choose psychiatry, therapy, or both with Brightside Health, who is able to prescribe medication as necessary. The focus of their virtual therapy is a combination of cognitive and behavioral therapy with independent skill practice. All experts are chosen for their ability to provide "best-in-class" care for you in your state. Their therapists have a master's or doctorate degree in clinical psychology, clinical social work, or counseling from an accredited program with experience in evidence-based care for anxiety and depression. Psychiatric providers at Brightside Health have demonstrated their skill in prescribing effective medication and are psychiatrists, physicians, or psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners. The psychiatrists at Brightside Health are able to prescribe some medications but not controlled substances. In addition to online care, they have Intensive Outpatient Programs in select states if needed. When you schedule your first appointment, Brightside Health permits you to browse available providers in your state and choose your own therapist or psychiatric provider, after you have already paid. If at any time you feel that your provider is not the right fit or are unsatisfied for any reason, you are able to switch.
Video, messaging therapy options plus lessons and an app
Providing "virtual, dedicated support every step of the way," clients have access to multiple methods of therapy. There are video sessions and anytime messaging to connect with your provider, plus interactive lessons to teach you how to integrate new thought and behavior patterns into your daily life and proactive progress tracking with weekly check-ins. There is a highly rated Brightside Health mobile app available for both Android and iOS, though it is not necessary for accessing counseling. The Brightside Health platform and supporting infrastructure is HIPAA compliant and secured by HITRUST. All data is encrypted in transit and at rest.
Insurance is accepted, including government plans
Brightside Health accepts most major insurance, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, though they say they provide affordable help even without insurance. If you are paying out of pocket, psychiatry costs $95 per month. Therapy costs $299 per month for four video sessions and unlimited messaging. If desired, additional 55-minute sessions are offered at $59 each. Should a combination package be better, you will save $45 by paying $349 per month for psychiatry and therapy. These services are part of a subscription, which can be canceled at any time but is non-refundable.
Harsh cancellation policy
Brightside Health policy requests a minimum of 24 hours notice to reschedule an appointment. A sky-high, no-show fee up to $200 may be charged. We wish this were more flexible because that's a lot of money.
Too many complaints and not high enough reviews
On their website Brightside Health offers access to reviews from their members, with all showing five or four stars. An accredited business with the BBB, they only have a "B+" rating due to 154 complaints filed against the business. Some complain about misrepresentation of service cost after insurance, random billing amounts, and problems with sessions. Across online review platforms, review averages range from 1.21 to 4.2 stars out of 5, with just some of them giving the online therapy service 5 stars. Pleased users called it a great resource with superb providers, and easy to use. Negative reviews rant about missed session fees, trouble reaching customer service, and unreliable therapists.
Just an average choice
Brightside Health has some great benefits, such offering both psychiatry and therapy. However, the large number of complaints against the company combined with asking clients to pay prior to choosing a therapist just makes them an average choice for online grief counseling.
Fair
Headspace is the mental health app with expert-led meditations and tools designed to help users reduce stress, sleep soundly, manage anxiety, process thoughts, and practice meditation using "empathetic" AI guidance. Calling itself "affordable online therapy and so much more," Therapy by Headspace is a relatively new offering from the company. Previously, the company provided online mental health coaching and services only through the employer market, but now it is available directly to consumers.
Easy to get details, though you need to provide personal information
In order to get a session cost on Therapy by Headspace, you must provide personal information, including your name and date of birth. Unlike many other companies providing grief counseling, Therapy by Headspace does not require you to fill out a mental health questionnaire of any type before getting to this step. (We like that there aren't a lot of questions to fill out to get us to the next step.)
Vetted professionals to choose from
Therapy by Headspace offers a "diverse pool of licensed therapists to choose from" and permits you to switch providers at any time, though it is currently only available in English. The licensed therapists on the platform use research-backed methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. According to the FAQs, their network includes specialists trained in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress management, and more - not specifically listing grief and loss.
Video counseling on an app
Therapy by Headspace follows HIPAA and industry standards to keep your sessions confidential, with encryption measures taken for every video session and message with your therapist. The counseling, which is offered in 50-minute video sessions, is offered through their app, which requires a separate subscription to access the mental health content. Scheduling is done via the app. To preview the app content, new users get a free trial to explore everything available, and a session also includes a trial period. The highly rated app -over 1 million users on Apple App Store rank it at 4.8 stars- is offered on both iOS and Android platforms.
Insurance accepted or pay out of pocket
Therapy by Headspace offers insurance coverage as well as a cash-pay option, though they note specifically that cash pay is not available for Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries. Uniquely, you pay nothing until you've completed your therapy session. When we put in our information, paying out-of-pocket for a session was offered at $149. Your session cost includes a three-month trial of the Headspace app (a $38.97 value when paid monthly, though an annual subscription costs less than half).
Coaching option offered
Alternatively, Headspace offers mental health coaching, a different service from video sessions with a licensed professional. For $99.99 per month subscription, you would receive three text-based sessions per month, which don't carry over but it does include the full Headspace meditation and sleep library. The website says these coaches guide you through life's challenges, including specifically mentioning "cope with grief and loss." Since this is significantly lower in cost than the cash-pay therapy sessions, depending on your personal preferences and needs, it may provide what you need.
Customers like it but billing can be a problem
Since the service is relatively new, limited reviews are available specifically regarding Therapy by Headspace. The scattered reviews are across review websites and blogs. One pleased reviewer mentioned that the therapy exceeded her expectations, adding that the thoughtful design combined with the library of mental wellness tools sets it apart from other online therapy. Another wrote that it was "the perfect combination" of design and versatility. Reviews for Headspace, the meditation app, are mostly high, receiving 4.8 on App Store and 4.4 on Google Play. Top complaints had to do with billing issues, with some complaining they were charged during the free trial, unable to get refunds, and "definitely not worth the money." The BBB has rated this unaccredited business with an "F" for failure to respond to complaints. We recommend using caution and keeping an eye on your billing credit card statements if you choose to go this route.
Needs time to prove efficacy
While the Headspace app has been around for over a decade, Therapy by Headspace is just too new to have had time to prove that they offer a quality option for grief counseling. With billing concerns a major complaint against the parent company, we suggest giving this newer service time to establish a track record.
Fair
Calling themselves the "next chapter in grief and depression recovery," Mindbloom is a unique kind of treatment. Providing a different option for those who are grieving, they use ketamine therapy and claim to have seen thousands of lives transformed since the program started in 2019.
Therapy with drugs
According to Mindbloom, certain candidates may use ketamine therapy to enhance neuroplasticity and "interrupt the cycle of persistent sadness and despair that often accompany grief." Additionally, individuals may be able to better emotionally process through this type of therapy and experience a profound shift in perspective. According to their site, the FDA-approved drug ketamine can be used in low doses under medical supervision to "help the brain form new connections and ‘reboot' out of depressive or anxious loops." Mindbloom offers a science-backed program in combination with this psychedelic medicine to make a change for their patients. Note that the FDA has not determined that compounded ketamine is safe and effective for use with mental health conditions. Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance and may cause serious side effects including sedation, dissociation, psychiatric events or worsening of disorders, anxiety, and more. Keeping in mind the safety risks - and the famous actor who died in recent years from this drug - we recommend more research on this drug before pursuing this therapy to decide if it is the right path through grief for you.
Everyone can benefit, says Mindbloom
Click on the "Am I a Candidate?" button to see if you could benefit from this type of therapy through Mindbloom. You will be given an online assessment for your indications of anxiety or depression to see if you are a fit for this program. However, we're not sure how to feel about this survey- even when we said we were feeling pretty good and had no looping thoughts, we were told that they could help us - a little suspicious, if you ask us. There are more questions about your mindset and personal details. Certain things would disqualify you: pregnancy, schizophrenia, and attempted suicide, among others. After you give your email address, they want to know about your therapy background. Then you will sign up for an online account, pay for a program (grief is one option, though they have 11 others), and book a video consultation.
Meet with care team and get diagnosis
Mindbloom offers a personal care team and a "compassionate community of fellow clients." Individuals are paired with licensed clinicians trained in treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Following an initial session, if you are diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, this professional may prescribe the Mindbloom ketamine treatment. According to their website, Mindbloom's program "shepherds clients through a safe, impactful experience" with clinician calls, guide consultations, Mindbloom sessions, and group sessions.
Some group interaction is included
The community aspect of the at-home ketamine therapy includes connecting to people in guide-led integration circles. Additionally, they provide access to a Facebook group for those sharing stories and advice about their ketamine therapy experiences. The Mindbloom app includes guided soundscapes, guided intention setting, a journaling tool kit, scheduling options, resources, and more.
How the ketamine therapy sessions work
New clients on Mindbloom will be sent a Bloombox, something to set apart your sessions from other areas of life which includes a place to store your medication, as well as a journal and an eye mask. Using their app, they suggest you set specific "healing objectives" to clarify your intentions. Then you will take your blood pressure, put on an eye mask and take the ketamine tablet for the "introspection" part of the therapy. Following the session - which lasts between an hour and 90 minutes - you will recap your experience in your journal before you forget insights you experienced. Next, meet with your guide on video to discuss the experience and make small changes.
Six sessions per program
Finally, note that each program is made up of six sessions to offer a closing to the experience. Some clients report improvement following their first session, and 89% reported improvement after four sessions. More advanced programs are offered for those who want to "tackle new goals as they arise" including these areas: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Burnout, Emotional Regulation, Getting Unstuck, Habit Change, Mindbloom 101, Relationships, Resilience, and Self-Love. The first session is scheduled with a provider, but following that, your treatments are self-led.
No insurance billed for this costly treatment
For the Grief program, clients receive the Mindbloom package of six ketamine treatments, the Bloombox, two clinician consults, three Guide sessions and unlimited messaging, and unlimited group integration sessions for $356 per month, billed every 30 days for three months. Additional virtual integration coaching is offered at $59 per 45-minute session if desired. Though they don't take insurance, they say insurance may reimburse and HSA/FSA can be used. If you pay for the program and the clinician determines it's not an appropriate treatment for you, you'll be completely refunded.
Complaints and concerns about Mindbloom
Mindbloom is not accredited with the BBB and has received a "B+" rating due to 61 complaints filed against the business. People report issues with hidden charges, customer service concerns, and difficulty getting refunds if they don't qualify. Across online review platforms, they have received ratings of 2.95 to 4.2 stars out of 5 from just over 800 reviews, with over 500 giving them 5 stars. Negative experiences report difficulty receiving the ketamine in a timely manner, billing issues, comparative cost, and lack of support. Positive reviews raved that the program was convenient, a great experience, and "exactly what I needed."
A unique choice though not recommended
While we appreciate an alternative therapy choice for those who are deeply affected by their grief, we cannot give a strong recommendation for Mindbloom. Too many complaints regarding the business and concerns about the safety of the drug being administered from home have us suggesting you seek other, safer grief therapy.
Subpar
"A doctor's office on your phone," PlushCare provides online therapy and virtual counseling, as well as virtual health and preventative care, online prescriptions, and urgent care. This platform has been serving patients for over 10 years.
Simple starting process
To get started, you will browse the therapists, then choose one who meets your needs and has an available appointment, but you will have to create a profile to book the appointment. PlushCare says you can sign up for a single therapy session with no commitment or subscription plan, though there's a membership fee. Their therapy services are only offered for individual adults (not couples or teens). If needed, they also have physicians who are able to prescribe medications that aren't controlled substances.
Vetted professionals with reviews on bios
Featuring a team of over 100 physicians from the top 50 U.S. medical institutions, all doctors have gone through an extensive interview process and are board-certified prior to joining the PlushCare team. All therapists have an average of 15 years of experience and are licensed to practice in 49 states, providing compassionate online therapy. When viewing the licensed therapists on PlushCare, only eight options are shown, each with a brief bio that includes credentials, specialties, techniques, and available states - however, more therapists are available when you click on "book an online therapy appointment" and choose your state. Each professional has a more complete bio with languages spoken and next available appointment date listed. Uniquely, there are reviews for each provider listed below their bio, if you want to check them out before choosing who to work with. However, you are unable to filter by specialty so if you want to specifically have a grief counselor, you'll need to weed through the results yourself. We found this to be a major downside of an otherwise promising service.
Online care via computer or app
PlushCare's program can be accessed via smartphone or computer. The highly-rated PlushCare app is available for iOS and Android platforms, and can be used to book appointments as well.
Confusing wording regarding insurance and care fees
An online therapy session with PlushCare costs $169 and is FSA/HSA eligible - they can provide a receipt for reimbursement if you ask but they will not bill insurance. The company's medical services are mentioned as "in network with most healthcare plans" which is misleading when seeking therapy. PlushCare offers their "straightforward and affordable healthcare" through a membership plan with a fee. The monthly membership for online therapy costs $14.99 (with the first month free), per the FAQs - though this isn't found anywhere else on the website and may be an older fee, with the regular membership costing $19.99 per month. Included in the membership is unlimited messages with your health care team, prescription discount card, same-day appointments, discounts on labs, and free family membership.
Annual membership is cheaper
An annual membership is significantly cheaper, billed at $149 for the year (FAQs says $99 so perhaps you can ask about a discount). Memberships start when you book the first appointment and continue until canceled, and they are not a covered insurance expense. If they are unable to treat you, they will refund your money. According to their FAQs, you can request medical services without the membership if you call them to schedule your appointment. If this feels confusing to you, it's because it is. We wish PlushCare was more straightforward about their pricing across services.
Cancellation is permitted but can be tricky
If you miss your PlushCare appointment or change it within two hours of the time, there is a $75 fee. Regarding canceling the service and membership for yourself, note that there are two steps to the process. You must do both or you will still be charged the membership fee, as disgruntled former users found out the hard way.
May not get therapy appointment soon
Therapy appointments are 45 minutes in length on PlushCare. Times may be early in the morning or after 9-5 work hours, which is a benefit that everyone can appreciate. Unfortunately, the earliest some of the counselors had appointment times was one month away. Additionally, though you can communicate with your "care team" at PlushCare between appointments, there appears to be no way to talk with your therapist directly.
Mixed customer reviews
An accredited business by the BBB, PlushCare has a "B+" rating due to over 400 complaints against them. Many of the complaints are regarding the billing department and unexpected charges to their credit cards. Across online review platforms, users are mixed in their opinions of this service. On Trustpilot, the company has an average 3.4 out of 5 stars from 2,500 reviews - with nearly a third of them being 1-star experiences. One user reviewing therapy services here complained about a therapist not providing the expected level of attention, as well as the unexpected membership fees that continue to be charged if a user is unaware of the need to cancel both appointments and membership. The happy users reported how easy it was to use the service, though it was the general medical service being used. Reviews on Trustpilot regarding PlushCare's therapy services are extremely limited, though some are scattered across online blogs and review websites. On the BBB, reviews are even lower, with the company getting just 2.12 out of 5 from nearly 400 reviewers, ranting about unexpected charges and customer service complaints. Watch your bank and credit statements if you sign up with PlushCare.
Not the best option
PlushCare sets themselves apart by saying they only include the best therapists for their service, but their billing issues and customer service woes bring them down. We suggest seeking grief counseling elsewhere.
Weak
MyWellbeing compares itself to Netflix by providing personalized recommendations to help those seeking therapy. Since their inception in 2017, they say they have helped millions of people understand and access mental health care.
A matchmaking service for therapists and patients
Not a provider of online grief therapy specifically, MyWellbeing is more of a matchmaking service that will allow you to browse through their 266 professionals to choose your own or complete their questionnaire to be matched.
Input your email address and then get your results. If you don't like the offerings, MyWellbeing suggests you book a consultation with one of your matches, though if they are not a good fit, you can either see more with the same preferences or update your preferences.
Limited options depending on your location
Offering 47 counselors and coaches specializing in grief and bereavement, MyWellbeing provides profiles for their providers with a photo (or video) which clearly show at-a-glance statistics to let you know who will be a fit for you. Graphics show if they are "verified background checked" (we don't understand why they all don't have this), scheduling options, fee range, method of counseling (virtual or in person), states available to provide service in, insurance accepted, areas of expertise, and style of counseling. Click on their photos to read a message from the therapist as well as some insight into their methods of counseling, personality, and background, including their appointment availability times.
Narrow down your choices
If you prefer to further narrow down their offerings, you can use the filter to include your location, insurance accepted (not all accept insurance and may indicate "out of network"), fee range, counselor identity (gender, race), and more. We input our state and found there were only two in our service area and neither had availability to book now. Alternatively, you may choose to get matched with a provider in less than five minutes by answering some questions. When we tried this we were warned that we would likely match with a coach instead of a licensed counselor - and we appreciated the honesty before wasting our time to answer the remaining questions.
An unnecessary step in your grief counseling search
Since MyWellbeing is a matching site, how you access the counseling varies by professional. The benefit of this website is that it helps you find a counselor who may be able to help you, but it is unclear as to why you would use the site. It seems the service could be improved to have all counselors background checked, as well as other vetting - no criteria is mentioned for how the featured professionals are chosen. It seems to be just a nicer search engine for finding a therapist.
Perhaps consult for free with a therapist first
Some counselors on MyWellbeing offer free consultations while others don't. Check with your chosen provider before scheduling.
Limited but positive reviews
There is no listing for MyWellbeing on the BBB, and online reviews of the platform are limited. There are a dozen reviews on Google, with the company earning 4.2 out of 5 stars. One pleased reviewer raves that they helped her find her current therapist through the filtering process, which has been a "great fit" for her needs. Another mentioned she was happy with the experience because it was less overwhelming than looking through her insurance listings. The negative reviews were from disgruntled therapists who didn't feel paying for their service was worth the money.
Hard to rate based on their brief bios
While we like what MyWellbeing is trying to do with their matchmaking service, the platform falls short. More information is needed about each professional and they should all be background checked instead of leaving that for the clients to figure out on their own. We suggest looking at one of our top-rated grief counseling choices instead.
Weak
Sesame provides "Half-Price Health Care" via an online medical marketplace created for those with high insurance deductibles or no insurance at all. Started in 2018, therapy is offered as part of their program, possibly including grief counseling depending on the providers available in your area.
Hard to find a grief counselor
When you go to the Sesame website, you are automatically logged in with your Google account, which lets them know where you may be seeking to receive counseling, and are given suggestions for available telehealth therapists. There were only seven options presented to us, showing a limited pool to choose from with no specialties listed on the main page of therapists. If you want a grief counselor, you have to click on each profile and read everything on it to see if the provider would be a match for you, since the search tool or filter don't provide any help at all. To book therapy, scroll through the given options, click on a time, and book it. After this, you'll have to select the membership tier (paid or free), create an account, and tell your reason for visiting. Once you've entered payment information, you'll be prompted to complete a medical history form before your appointment.
Unvetted providers, difficult to find out details
With providers ranging from licensed clinical professional counselors and social workers to PhDs offering counseling and therapy, Sesame has professionals available, though they are limited in their offerings. Some have ratings and reviews while others do not. To learn more about these therapists, you must click on them, since no at-a-glance is offered to help you decide which to choose. You can sort by ratings, price, location, or availability, but the tool does not work well, as when we tried to sort by highest rated, we were consistently offered the unreviewed counselors first. If you need medication, psychiatrists are also available via Sesame's marketplace. All clinicians on the platform are independent medical professionals who are part of the network and aren't supervised or endorsed by Sesame. In fact, they even mention that patients should research the qualifications of the health care providers prior to paying for or receiving care. This makes us wonder why someone would choose an unknown provider here from a list of services if there's no accountability or vetting.
Video therapy via app or internet
All HIPAA-compliant therapy sessions on Sesame are through a secure online video platform, which may be accessed through their app or online browser. If you want messaging or other e-options, you'll have to look elsewhere. The highly-rated app is available on both iOS and Android platforms.
Discounts offered, membership strongly urged
When you open their webpage, Sesame may offer a pop-up discount for signing up for their email list and they also provide a referral bonus of $10 to give to your friends. They do not bill insurance, though you may be able to submit a receipt for reimbursement or use your HSA/FSA to pay for your care on the platform. There are two prices shown on each provider: a one-time visit cost and a Sesame Plus membership discounted price (a $10 discount). While we like that the cost is upfront, we were surprised at how widely they varied. Since it's a network of independent providers, the fees are set by the therapists, not Sesame. The company promotes the membership option as a way to get benefits on all types of their health care: same-day visits, choice of provider, discount on urgent care, free lab or blood test, 90-day prescriptions, and a $10 discount on virtual visits. The cost for a prepaid year of Sesame Plus is $99 or monthly for $10.99 per month.
Generous cancellation policy
Virtual appointments on Sesame may be fully refunded if canceled at least three hours prior to the scheduled start time. This is a much more generous cancellation policy than is typical of a doctor's office, which we appreciate since things can come up.
Session lengths vary by provider
Session lengths range on Sesame by provider's offerings. We saw one offer a 30-minute session for $103 while another offered a 55-minute session for $104. This information is not readily available as it's only shown when you try to book the appointment. It definitely should be more visible, perhaps next to the price or even in the bio of the provider, not hidden like it is.
Customers like platform for medical care
An accredited business by the BBB, Sesame has earned an "A" rating. However, the company has received 100 complaints over the past three years, often regarding billing issues and customer service woes. Across online review platforms, Sesame has earned 3.91 to 4.5 out of 5 stars. Though we could not find many reviews mentioning using the platform's therapy services, pleased customers mentioned professional, personal, and efficient care. One said the mental health care she received was "the best care possible." Negative reviews mention their annoyance with trying to get a receipt for insurance reimbursement, issues with doctors who don't show up or communicate well, and poor customer service. Since we're not sure about their therapy offerings from these reviews, we cannot recommend Sesame specifically for grief counseling.
Just a list of names
Since Sesame does not take responsibility for their therapists and suggests customers do their own research, we recommend looking at one of our higher-ranked platforms which stands behind their counselors.
Poor
Talkiatry provides psychiatric help for anyone who struggles with their mental health in 43 states. While they don't specifically treat grief, they list specialties in depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
Match with a clinician by verifying your email
At Talkiatry, you will speak with a professional psychiatrist online and possibly be prescribed medication. If you prefer not to take meds, the psychiatrists can refer you to other treatment options, including talk therapy, which may happen outside of their platform (though they do have therapists for those who are already patients). Prior to the short assessment which will ask about your insurance and location, you must provide your email address and verify it by clicking on the message. We feel this is a bit too much for those who are simply seeking information. Then you are given clinical questions to aid them in matching you with a clinician who can help you. Finally, you are able to schedule your own virtual visit with the provider of your choice.
Psychiatry online for ages 5 and up
Saying their doctors are individually vetted for "experience, expertise, and empathy," Talkiatry provides 100% HIPAA-compliant online care by over 600 psychiatrists. The first visit with your provider on Talkiatry will be a 60-minute session. Follow-ups are usually half that time. Psychiatrists will meet with children aged 5 and older.
Only insured patients, please
Over 100 insurers are accepted by Talkiatry. They prescribe FDA-approved medication and only if you need it. Patients whose insurance they don't accept or who are uninsured and want to self pay are not able to receive treatment on Talkiatry. They do not take Medicaid, either. Additionally, if you need to cancel, make sure you contact Talkiatry at least 48 hours in advance or you'll be charged $100.
Customers and the BBB warn against this company
Talkiatry is not accredited by the BBB and has received a dismal "F" rating for failure to respond to 111 complaints, most complaining about billing issues regarding insurance. Across online review platforms, the company ranks just as poorly with 1.07 to 2.3 out of 5 stars from over 500 reviews. Users are overwhelmingly angry with the platform for issues involving medication, billing, and customer service. The few positive reviews mention specific providers by name and gush about their service.
Look elsewhere
For those seeking grief counseling, Talkiatry's service doesn't seem to be a good fit. The overwhelmingly poor reviews and complaints on the BBB lead us to tell you to seek another option from our more highly-rated platforms.
Continued from above...
If you've experienced a loss of any type, you may be considering seeking counseling to get through your pain. Online therapy can be a more convenient method of receiving therapy since you don't have to go anywhere. This is also very helpful for those in a remote location or an area without therapists. Those with a disability who may have difficulty traveling to an office benefit from online therapy as well. Often, people find they are more able to open up in an online session due to feeling more comfortable in their homes than in a new location.
Sessions typically may be accessed via the internet wherever you are able to connect, though some platforms use an app specifically for therapy - video, voice, or text messaging. In addition, online therapy is often less expensive than in-person options, providing an affordable option for those without insurance coverage, as well as offering flexibility for scheduling.
But, not all online therapy platforms are created equal. Some companies provide licensed professionals while others can only provide coaches. The main difference is that while therapists are licensed and able to treat mental health conditions, coaches don't require any advanced education to help individuals achieve specific goals. We suggest knowing which you are signing up for before you pay.
To help you work through the pain and sadness, online grief counseling can be a wonderful lifeline. Which one is right for you? When deciding which online therapy service best meets your needs, we suggest considering these important aspects:
We at Top Consumer Reviews have sifted through all of these considerations in order to find the best online grief counseling platforms. We hope that our ranked list from first-to-worst will help you select a therapist who will guide you through your loss and help you to live well.
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