Empowering You with Science-Backed Digital Tools for Mental Health

❝The only way is through❞

Dr. Alexandre Lemyre

Dr. Alexandre Lemyre

Ph.D. in psychology, Laval University
Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Montreal

Our mission

We are creating Swoan, a digital platform designed to address a wide range of psychological difficulties. Our goal is to make mental health care more accessible, affordable, and effective than ever. At the heart of the platform is an AI-powered agent that engages with you to understand your concerns, craft a personalized program tailored to your needs, and guide you step by step through the self-help modules. For those seeking additional support, licensed psychotherapists will be available.

Swoan will address the following difficulties, and more.

Sleep problems

Insomnia and nightmares

Anxiety and stress

Generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, etc.

Depressive symptoms

Loss of motivation, low mood, burnout, mourning, etc.

Post-traumatic reactions

Intrusive memories, anger, guilt, etc.

Dependences

Substance abuse, smoking, gambling, etc.

Join us in our mission to reduce emotional suffering.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

We want to hear from you: What matters most in a digital mental health platform? Your input will help guide how we design and prioritize features.

Recommended tools

Enhance your well-being

Below is a selection of curated digital tools for mental health and well-being. While we develop our own software solution, these tools may offer relief or improve your quality of life.

Web-Based Self-Help Programs

Mental Health Online (free)

Depression; Anxiety; Panic; Social Anxiety; OCD; PTSD

Provider

Mental Health Online (previously “Anxiety Online”) is an initiative of Swinburne University’s National eTherapy Centre (NeTC) and funded by Australia’s Federal Department of Health.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

The seven programs are free.

Description from the Mental Health Online website

Depression Online program

Depression Online has 11 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. It provides information about depression and introduces skills and strategies that can help you to: identify the symptoms of depression; start using activity to improve your mood; discover and challenge unhelpful thoughts; boost your wellbeing by making lifestyle changes; plan to maintain your mental health gains after the course.

Panic Stop! program

The Panic STOP! program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. It provides information about Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia, and introduces skills and strategies that can help you to: identify the symptoms of panic disorder; self-monitor your specific panic symptoms and mood; gain control of physical reaction; learn how to cope with, and reduce panic attack; learn relaxation techniques; make lifestyle changes to improve your wellbeing.

Social Anxiety Online program

The Social Anxiety program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. It provides information about social anxiety and introduces skills and strategies that can help you to: identify and monitor the symptoms of social anxiety; learn relaxation and breathing techniques to reduce social anxiety symptoms; discover and challenge unhelpful thoughts; boost your wellbeing by making lifestyle changes; face feared social situations using exposure therapy; plan to maintain your mental health gains after the course.

Depression-Anxiety program

The Depression-Anxiety program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. Overall, the program will help you understand the symptoms you have been experiencing and teach you strategies to improve your wellbeing and mental health. The content aims to provide useful information and to introduce skills that can help you to manage symptoms and alleviate distress. You can do Depression-Anxiety at your own pace, and engage with the materials you find most helpful.

OCD Stop! program

The OCD STOP! program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. Our program combines cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) with exposure and response prevention therapy (ERPT) which is considered the most effective treatment for OCD. It provides information about OCD and introduces skills and strategies that can help you to: improve your understanding of OCD; learn practical techniques to manage anxiety in OCD; discover ways to manage intrusive thoughts; be guided through exposure and how to manage your responses; learn how to maintain the gains from the course.

PTSD Online program

The PTSD Online program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. It provides information about PTSD and helps you to understand why it develops. PTSD Online also introduces the skills and strategies that can help you to: identify the symptoms of PTSD; learn relaxation techniques including progressive muscle relaxation; gain control of physical reactions; learn how to change any unhelpful thoughts and beliefs maintaining PTSD; plan to maintain your mental health gains after the course.

Anxiety and Worry Online program

The Anxiety and Worry program has 12 modules that you can do in your own time and have access to for 12 months. It provides information about anxiety and introduces skills and strategies that can help you to: understand and identify anxiety and worry; monitor and reduce specific anxiety symptoms; gain control of physical reactions; identify and replace unhelpful beliefs and ways of thinking; learn problem-solving techniques; make lifestyle changes to improve your wellbeing.

Guidance

On the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, we can read the following: “Users outside of Australia are welcome to complete any of our self-guided programs. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer our therapist assisted programs for anyone living outside of Australia.”

Outside of Australia, all programs are unguided, meaning that you complete them entirely on your own. Mental Health Online does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, you can choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Individuals residing in Australia have the option to complete any program in a guided format.

Platform

The programs are available on smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. There is no dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the programs.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the programs

Although the articles documenting the efficacy of the programs are not listed on the Mental Health Online website, we contacted them and they kindly provided a list of relevant peer-reviewed articles.

This Way Up (free)

Depression; Anxiety; Panic; Social Anxiety; OCD; PTSD; Health Anxiety; Perinatal Anxiety and Depression; Teen Worry and Sadness; etc.

Provider

This Way Up is a non-profit and joint initiative of St Vincent’s Hospital and the University of New South Wales. It is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

The 12 treatment programs are free but require a prescription from a healthcare professional.

Australian residents can access the treatment programs without a prescription at AUD $59 for 90-days of access.

Australian residents can access the four wellbeing programs (i.e., stress management program; insomnia program; mindfulness program; and student wellbeing program) free of charge; these four programs are not available outside Australia.

Description from the This Way Up website

Depression program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle feelings of persistent sadness, low motivation, irritability, tiredness, and low mood, and use helpful strategies to start feeling better.

Panic program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle the sudden and frightening physical symptoms associated with panic attacks and use helpful strategies to manage fear and anxiety about having a future attack.

Social Anxiety program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle excessive shyness, fears of being judged by others, and anxiety in social situations, and use helpful strategies to build your confidence and self-esteem.

Anxiety and Depression program

This 6-lesson program is about helping you tackle feelings of persistent anxiety, nervousness, low motivation, tiredness, and low mood, and use helpful strategies to stay well.

OCD program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle frightening, unpleasant or unwanted thoughts and hard-to-control urges to perform repetitive behaviours, and use helpful strategies to overcome obsessions and compulsions.

Post Traumatic Stress program

This 8-lesson program teaches how to tackle frightening flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, or low mood following a traumatic event or experience, and use helpful strategies to start feeling better.

Generalised Anxiety program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle feelings of persistent and hard-to-control worry, anxiety, and chronic unease, and use helpful strategies for managing repetitive negative thoughts about the future.

Health Anxiety program

This 6-lesson program teaches how to tackle excessive worry about health, fear of developing an illness, and repetitive self-checking behaviours, and use helpful strategies to ease anxiety around health-related information.

Chronic Pain program

This 8-lesson program teaches practical strategies for coping with chronic pain, including how to improve your mobility, flexibility, and mental wellbeing so that you can feel better and reduce the impact of pain on your daily life.

Mindfulness-Enhanced CBT program

This 6-lesson program combines the cognitive-behavioural strategies taught in the Anxiety and Depression Program, with mindfulness skills and meditation training.

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression programs

These 3-lesson programs teach how to tackle feelings of anxiety, worry, and low mood during pregnancy and in the postpartum period to help mums build confidence and improve the way they feel.

Teen Worry and Sadness program

This 6-lesson program is designed to help young people (aged 12 to 17) manage feelings of stress, anxiety, and low mood, and use helpful strategies for building confidence when tackling common adolescent experiences.

Guidance

This Way Up does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, since access to the programs requires a prescription, the mental health professional making the prescription might offer you some guidance.

Platform

The programs are available on smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. There is no dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the programs.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the programs

We were unable to identify studies testing this program. However, it is worth noting that this program was adapted from the adult Anxiety and Depression program to be more suitable for young people from 12-17 years of age. The adult Anxiety and Depression program has been tested in several studies.

Black Dog Institute (free)

Depression, Anxiety & Stress

Provider

Black Dog Institute is an independent Medical Research Institute, non-profit organization located within the Prince of Wales Hospital Campus and affiliated with UNSW Australia (the University of New South Wales).

Link

Language

English

Pricing

The myCompass program is free.

You will be asked to enter a postal code on signing up. Only Australian format – four numbers in a row – is accepted. We were able to create an account with “2000” as the postal code.

At the time of writing this review, their Terms of Use do not state that myCompass is exclusively for Australian residents.

Description from the Black Dog Institute website

myCompass offers 14 online learning activities that deliver evidence-based psychological techniques. myCompass mood tracking features allows you to track your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in four areas – depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep. In addition, it provides graphical feedback to help you better recognise the patterns and triggers that impact your mental health, both positively and negatively. The learning activities deliver proven psychological techniques doctors and psychologists use, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Guidance

myCompass is unguided, meaning you complete the activities entirely on your own. Black Dog Institute does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, you can choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Platform

The program is available on smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. There is no dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the program.

Scientific study on the efficacy of the program

e-hub Health ($)

Depression; Anxiety & Worry; Social Anxiety; Divorce & Separation; Loss & Bereavement

Provider

e-hub Health is an Australian National University spin-off company managed by senior staff involved in the original development of the e-hub self-help programs.

e-hub Health is part of Dialogue, a for-profit company in Canada.

Dialogue is owned by Sun Life Financial, a publicly traded multinational insurance company headquartered in Canada.

Links

Language

English

Pricing (USD)

$27 for 12 months of access to the moodgym program.

To pay for access, you will have to register an account.

$27 for 12 months of unlimited access to the five e-couch programs: Depression; Anxiety & Worry; Social Anxiety; Divorce & Separation; Loss & Bereavement

To pay for access, you will have to register an account.

Description from the moodgym website

moodgym is an online self-help program designed to help users prevent and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is like an interactive, online self-help book which teaches skills based on cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). You can log back in at any time to learn more skills or to add to your workbooks and diaries.

Description from the e-couch website

Depression program

The Depression program may be helpful for people who are experiencing symptoms of depression. It provides information about depression and teaches a range of evidence-based approaches to help you reduce depressive symptoms and improve your life.

Anxiety & Worry program

The Anxiety & Worry program may be helpful for people who experience anxiety and worry about many different areas of life. It provides information about common anxiety disorders and teaches a range of evidence-based approaches to help you reduce the effects of anxiety & worry, and improve your life.

Social Anxiety program

The Social Anxiety program provides information about social anxiety or social phobia – the intense anxiety that some people experience in social or performance situations. It also teaches a range of evidence-based approaches to help you to manage your symptoms and improve your life.

Divorce & Separation program

The Divorce & Separation program may be helpful for people currently going through a relationship separation or who have separated recently. It provides information about factors that might affect how you are feeling, and practical advice about how to cope. It also teaches a range of evidence-based approaches to support your mental health and wellbeing.

Loss & Bereavement program

The Loss & Bereavement program may be helpful for people who have recently lost someone they care about. It provides information about common reactions to loss and ideas to help with your grief. It also teaches a range of evidence-based approaches to support your mental health and wellbeing.

Guidance

The moodgym program and the e-couch programs are unguided, meaning you complete them entirely on your own. e-hub Health does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, you can choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Platform

Neither the moodgym website nor the e-couch website mention whether their programs are mobile responsive.

There is no dedicated app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy for the MoodGYM program is available at this address

The privacy policy for the e-couch programs is available at this address

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the programs.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the programs

We were unable to identify studies that tested this program.

We were unable to identify studies that tested this program.

GAIA ($)

Depression; Alcohol abuse

Provider

GAIA is a for-profit company in Germany.

Links

Language

English
German

Pricing

  • deprexis worldwide: $399 USD for three months (12 weeks, 90 days)
  • deprexis in Germany: €210 for three months (12 weeks, 90 days)

 

  • vorvida worldwide: $599 USD for 6 months (24 weeks, 180 days), or $99 USD/month for 6 months
  • vorvida in Germany: €192 for three months (12 weeks, 90 days)


A diagnosis of depressive disorder (for deprexis) or alcohol use disorder (for vorvida) from a doctor or therapist may be required to make the purchase.

In Germany, the cost of deprexis and vorvida is covered by statutory insurances and by most private insurances.

Description from the deprexis website

deprexis is an online program designed for people with depression, tailored to meet your individual needs. Through a virtual dialogue, it offers suggestions, methods, and techniques to help you manage negative thoughts and foster positive emotions, guiding you on your journey back to life.

Description from the vorvida website

vorvida uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) tools and techniques to help you identify triggers, break negative behaviors, and develop healthier responses. By developing more self-awareness and additional skills, vorvida can help you drink less alcohol in as little as 3 months.

Guidance

The deprexis and vorvida programs are unguided, meaning you complete them entirely on your own. GAIA does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, you can choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Platform

The programs are available on smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. There is no dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy for deprexis on the US website is available at this address.
The privacy policy for deprexis on the German website is available at this address.

The privacy policy for vorvida on the US website is available at this address.
The privacy policy for vorvida on the German website is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the programs.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the programs

HelloBetter ($)

Depression Prevention; Stress Management

Provider

HelloBetter (previously, the GET.ON Institute for Online Health Training) is a for-profit company in Germany.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

299.00€ (≈ $340 USD) for each program

In Germany, the programs may be reimbursed partially or fully by some insurances.

Description from the HelloBetter website

Depression Prevention program

You will work through a total of 6 online course units, all based on proven cognitive-behavioural therapy strategies. The course units each take around an hour to complete and are easy to fit around your daily life. We recommend that you work through one unit each week. You will have full access to the course for a total of 12 months.

Among other things, our clear and effective exercises will help you to lastingly improve your mood, develop your problem-solving skills and strengthen your social relationships. The exercises to complete between the units are also important. They will help you to incorporate what you have learned into your everyday life and to apply it to your personal situation.

Stress Management program

You will work through a total of 8 online course units, all based on proven cognitive-behavioural therapy strategies. The course units each take around an hour to complete and are easy to fit around your daily life. We therefore recommend that you work through one unit each week.

Our clear and effective exercises will help you to identify, reduce and prevent your personal stress triggers and symptoms. You will learn how to strengthen your problem-solving skills and find a practical way to deal with stressful thoughts and feelings, so you will experience stressful situations more positively and lastingly reduce your stress levels.

Guidance

These are guided self-help programs, meaning you complete them on your own with minimal guidance from a therapist. Specifically, you will receive written feedback from a psychologist upon completion of each unit. You can also choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Platform

The programs are available on the HelloBetter mobile App, and on the web for computers.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the programs.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the programs

Notes on web-based self-help programs

Basics of web-based programs

Web-based self-help programs deliver psychoeducational content and teach strategies similar to those used in traditional cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). These programs typically involve engaging with written or audio-visual material, completing structured exercises during and between sessions, and monitoring personal progress. Self-help programs may be unguided, where individuals work independently, or guided, where brief support or feedback is provided by a coach or therapist. This support typically does not continue after program completion.

Available worldwide

The self-help programs presented above are accessible worldwide, either free of charge or available through out-of-pocket payment.

Additionally, many service providers offer scientifically tested web-based programs within specific countries, primarily the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. These programs are often freely available because they are funded by the government or paid for by organizations such as health insurance providers, employers, or universities. Therefore, individuals are advised to contact their health insurer, employer, or academic institution to inquire about available self-help programs.

A list of country-specific service providers is presented below.

Available in several countries

SilverCloud

SilverCloud is provided by Amwell, a publicly traded company in the United States.

The self-help programs are available through health insurers, employers, and higher education institutions.

Mental health programs:

  • Anxiety program
  • Depression program
  • Depression and Anxiety program
  • Insomnia and Sleep Issues program
  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder program
  • Health Anxiety program
  • OCD program
  • Panic program
  • Phobia program
  • Social Anxiety program
  • ADHD program


Substance use programs:

  • Drug Use program
  • Alcohol program


Chronic conditions programs:

  • Chronic Pain with Anxiety & Depression program
  • Lung Conditions with Anxiety & Depression program
  • Diabetes with Anxiety & Depression program


Family programs:

  • Supporting an Anxious Child
  • Supporting an Anxious Teen
  • Anxiety for Teens
  • Low Mood for Teens
  • Perinatal Wellbeing

Available in the United States and the United Kingdom

Big Health

Big Health is a for-profit company in the United States. They have a website for the United States and a website for the United Kingdom.

The programs are available through some health insurers and employers.

Programs:

  • Sleepio and Sleepio RX for Insomnia Disorder
  • Daylight and Daylight RX for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Available in Australia

Mindspot

MindSpot is operated by MQ Health at Macquarie University. MQ Health is an academic health sciences centre. All MindSpot services are funded by the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care.

The programs are freely available in Australia.

Programs:

  • Mood Mechanic program
  • OCD program
  • PTSD program
  • Pain program
  • Chronic Conditions program
  • Sleep program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Indigenous Wellbeing program

Inside Out

InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders is a national eating disorder research institute, which is a partnership between Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) and the University of Sydney.

The programs are freely available in Australia.

Programs:

  • Binge Eating program (10 sessions)
  • Brief Binge Eating eTherapy (Brief BEeT)

BRAVE

BRAVE is provided by UniQuest Pty Limited, the commercialisation company of the University of Queensland.

The programs are freely available in Australia.

Programs:

  • BRAVE program for anxiety and worries in children aged 8-12
  • BRAVE program for anxiety and worries in children aged 12-17
  • BRAVE program for parents (learn about how to help their 3-7 child overcome worries)
  • BRAVE program for parents (learn about how to help their 8-12 child overcome worries)
  • BRAVE program for parents (learn about how to help their 12-17 teenager overcome worries)

Available in Germany

HelloBetter

HelloBetter, formerly the GET.ON Institute for Online Health Training, is a for-profit company in Germany.

The programs are covered by insurance providers in Germany. Only the prevention programs (i.e., the Depression Prevention program, and the Stress Management program) are available outside of Germany; these two programs are reviewed in a card above.

Prevention programs – limited insurance coverage:

  • Depression Prevention program
  • Stress Management program


Mental health programs – limited insurance coverage:

  • Acute Depression program
  • Drink less Alcohol program


Mental health programs – free on prescription:

  • Stress and Burnout program
  • Sleep program
  • Panic program


Chronic conditions programs – free on prescription:

  • Vaginismus Plus program
  • Diabetes program
  • Chronic Pain program

GAIA

While GAIA has an official website, their self-help programs are not listed on it. Each program has its own website.

GAIA is a for-profit company in Germany.

The programs are covered by insurance providers in Germany. Only deprexis and vorvida are available for an out-of-pocket cost outside of Germany; these two programs were reviewed in a card above.

Programs for mental health:


Programs for chronic conditions:

Selfapy

Selfapy is a for-profit company in Germany.

The programs are covered by insurance providers in Germany, except for the Panic Disorder program, which can be accessed for an out-of-pocket cost (AUD $394).

Mental health programs:

  • Depression program
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder program
  • Binge Eating Disorder program
  • Bulimia program
  • Panic Disorder program


Chronic conditions program:

  • Chronic Pain program

Available in Canada

BounceBack (“Retrouver son entrain”)

BounceBack is provided by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).

The programs are freely available in Canada.

Programs:

  • BounceBack program for anxiety and depression in adolescents (14-17/18)
  • BounceBack program for anxiety and depression in adults

Available in New Zealand

Beating the Blues

Beating the Blues is provided by Managed My Health, a for-profit company in New Zealand.

The program is freely available in New Zealand.

Program:

  • Beating the Blues program for depression and anxiety

CBT-Based Mobile Apps

My Possible Self (free)

General mental health

Provider

My Possible Self Limited is a for-profit company in England. It operates a B2B (business to business) model, selling licenses to businesses and general practitioners, and partnering with Priory Healthcare, a major private healthcare provider in the UK.

While the app appears to have previously used a subscription-based model, it is currently offered free of charge to the public. The company’s website does not make a commitment to providing the app freely, so keep in mind they might charge a fee in the future.

As a sidenote, their home page mentions that My Possible Self is featured on the NHS Apps Library, but this library was permanently closed in December 2021.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

Free (for now)

Description from the App Store

We want to give you access to the best toolkits available to improve your mind. Teaming up with our friends at Priory, world leaders in mental health, we have created interactive tools and coping strategies, using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), customised for digital use. Together, we’ll guide you through life’s challenges and help you take care of yourself.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

There are indications on the company’s website that mental health experts at Priory Healthcare were involved in the development of My Possible Self.

Scientific study on the efficacy of the app

COGITO (free)

General mental health

Provider

COGITO is provided by the Neuropsychology and Psychotherapy Research Unit at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf.

Links

Language

COGITO is available in most languages.

Pricing

Free

Description from the App Store

The self-help exercises used in the app are based on scientifically recognized techniques of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as Metacognitive Training (MCT) that reduce emotional problems such as sadness and loneliness and also improve problems with impulse control. Each day, you will receive new exercises. The exercises take just a few minutes and can easily be integrated into your everyday life. Up to two push messages will remind you to do the exercises regularly (optional feature). You will also be able to write your own exercises or to modify existing exercises. So, you can turn the app into your personal “guardian angel.” However, the app does not automatically adapt to the user’s behavior (a learning algorithm has not been included).

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of COGITO.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the app

Notes on mobile apps

Basics of mobile apps for mental health

Mobile apps for mental health and well being generally fall into one of the following categories:

1) Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy (CBT) apps
Includes information about psychological difficulties (causes, symptoms, treatment) and tools to perform therapeutic exercises

2) Mindfulness and meditation apps

3) Tracking apps
Used to monitor moods or emotions, substance use (nicotine, alcohol, drugs), or addictive behaviors such as gambling or pornography consumption

4) Peer support apps
Designed to connect users with others experiencing similar difficulties, and sometimes with coaches as well

5) Chatbots
Examples are Woebot and Wysa, which currently provide pre-written responses based on hand-crafted algorithms (like decision trees). These differ from generative large language models like GPT, Gemini, or Claude, which produce creative responses using neural networks. Many researchers and companies are experimenting with building chatbots based on large language models, but these have not been sufficiently studied to ensure their efficacy and safety.

The five categories above are not mutually exclusive. A given app can incorporate elements from more than one category. For instance, a CBT app may also offer mood tracking functionalities.

There are mobile apps for a wide variety of psychological difficulties and populations. This includes:

  1. Apps for anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, etc.
  2. Apps intended to be used by parents with their children
  3. Apps for teenagers
  4. Apps for drug addictions and behavioral addictions
  5. Apps focusing on suicide or self-harm prevention (safety plan and crisis management)
  6. Apps for neurodivergent individuals (autism, ADHD, etc.)
  7. Apps focused on preventing cognitive decline
  8. Apps for chronic physical conditions (migraines, pain, heart disease, etc.)

Platforms specializing in health app reviews

Reviewing and categorizing hundreds of apps is not our mission. Luckily, others have done it. If you are looking for a mobile app (free or paid), we recommend consulting mindapps.org. This platform is managed by mental health experts and contains the largest collection of mental health app reviews. You can use the site as it is or create a free account to access more filters.

Other useful platforms include:

  • ORCHA, a respected health app review service
  • Veteran Affairs App Library, featuring apps developed by the U.S. Veteran Affairs, many of which are available worldwide and are adequate for individuals who are not veterans. Among others, you will find the following cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) apps:
    • PTSD Coach and PTSD Family Coach
    • Insomnia Coach
    • VetChange for problematic alcohol use
  • eMHPrac Digital Mental Health Resource Directory, focused on Australian users, though many apps are available worldwide.


For mental health professionals who are looking for apps to use with their clients, we recommend AppGuide. It is a review platform tailored specifically to health professionals. Note that it requires creating an account.

Apps developed by universities and research centers

Although many mobile apps are developed by researchers, only a small fraction are ever released to the public. Unfortunately, while researchers are often eager to develop new technologies (with public funds), they rarely follow through to the point of making their creations accessible to the public. For instance, in a literature review covering 2010 to 2021, Nuo and colleagues (2023) identified 233 cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) mobile apps for sleep (mainly for sleep-disordered breathing and insomnia) developed by research teams. Of these, 56.7% received grant funding. Yet, only 12 apps (5%) were ever released on app stores. While the article does not detail the scope of availability, we know from experience that mobile apps created in universities and research centers are often restricted by region, platform (only Android or iOS), or language, which significantly limits public access.

Moreover, the few publicly funded apps that do become accessible to the public are often disappointing in terms of design. While private companies typically hire professional designers to ensure a high-quality user experience and visually appealing interface, research teams tend to focus on content and functionality, often neglecting the design.

On the positive side, these apps often include well-founded scientific content and exercises, and they tend to prioritize data privacy. Moreover, since they are typically funded by public grants or donations, they are usually offered free of charge.

Apps developed by non-profit organizations or for-profit companies

While not the norm, there are some instances where apps developed by researchers transition into the private domain, with a company acquiring the rights to commercialize the app. This is good in essence, as the app is, at least, made available. Companies also might have an incentive to invest in development, design, and dissemination, which can benefit users.

However, most of the time, non-profit organizations and for-profit companies develop their app from scratch. Many such apps are built without the involvement of mental health experts, raising concerns about safety and efficacy.

In particular, apps that provide education about psychological difficulties (causes, symptoms, treatments) and/or propose exercises to cope with these difficulties should always be developed in collaboration with mental health experts. This is especially true for apps who claim to be based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or any other therapeutic approaches. When laypeople attempt to replicate these approaches without proper training, the result can be harmful.

If you plan on using such an app, verify that the organization or company reports on the involvement of specific mental health experts (by name), academic institutions (universities, research center, etc.), or highly reputable companies specialized in providing health services. Be cautious of vague phrases such as “research-based” or “based on scientific evidence” unless they are backed by specific names or affiliations.  

If the app has been evaluated in one or more scientific studies, that is a strong positive sign, but it is not sufficient on its own.

Data privacy

Unfortunately, unethical data practices are not uncommon among mental health and well-being apps. A privacy policy should be clear and accessible; if you feel that you need a lawyer to understand most of this document, that is a bad sign. Look for clear statements of compliance with strong data protection laws like GDPR (Europe), CCPA (USA), PIPEDA (Canada), or the Privacy Act 1988 APPs (Australia).

Mindfullness and Well-Being Mobile Apps

Headspace ($)

General mental health

Provider

Headspace is a for-profit company in the United States.

Links

Language

English
French
German
Spanish
Portuguese
Mandarin

Pricing (USD)

  • 7-days free trial of the paid version
  • $12.99/Month
  •  $69.99/Year (= $5.83/month)

Description from the App Store

Welcome to Headspace, your lifelong guide to mental health, mindfulness, and meditation. Stress less, sleep soundly, and feel happier with expert guided meditations, one-on-one mental health coaching, and mood-boosting mindfulness exercises for any need. Choose from hundreds of sessions for support with stress, everyday anxiety, and more.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts contributed to the development of various Headspace content, including courses based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the app

Healthy Minds Program (free)

General mental health

Provider

The Healthy Minds Program mobile app is provided by Healthy Minds Innovations Inc. (HMI), a nonprofit organization in the United States. This organization was founded by Dr. Richard J. Davidson, a neuroscientist, and it is affiliated with the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

Free

Description from the App Store

Featuring our scientific Awareness, Connection, Insight, and Purpose, Well-being Framework, the Healthy Minds Program is a holistic, all-encompassing meditation app that offers the best of both guided meditations and opportunities to learn. You’ll learn simple skills to enhance personal well-being, build healthy relationships, and improve communication, performance, and creativity.

While many meditation apps can claim the scientific benefits of meditation, our practices are developed directly from neuroscientific research. You’ll also hear from the world’s foremost neuroscientists about neuroplasticity and how to train your mind.

Data privacy

The data privacy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the app.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the app

Smiling Mind (free)

General mental health

Provider

Smiling Mind is an Australian non-profit organization.

Links

Language

English


There are hints in blog articles on the official website that other languages, such as Arabic and Dari, may be available, but there is no functionality to change the language within the app.

Pricing

Free

Description from the App Store

Welcome to your versatile and practical mental fitness toolkit. The Smiling Mind App helps you learn the skills that underpin wellbeing and create the habits to thrive. Develop your own, unique approach to building your mental fitness, navigating challenges and meeting your goals. It’s your daily workout for life, in your pocket.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the app.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the app

Mood Tracking Mobile App

How We Feel (free)

Mood tracking

Provider

The How We Feel mobile app is provided by the How We Feel Project Inc. (HWF), a non-profit company in the United States.

Links

Language

English

Pricing

Free

Description from the App Store

How We Feel is a free app created by scientists, designers, engineers, and therapists to help people better understand their emotions and find strategies to help them navigate their emotions in the moment. Conceived in conjunction with Yale University’s Center for Emotional Intelligence and based on the work of Dr Marc Brackett, How We Feel helps people find the right word to describe how they feel while tracking their sleep, exercise, and health trends using HealthKit in order to spot patterns over time.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the app.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of the app

We did not find any scientific study testing the efficacy of How We Feel. This is not surprising, however, as mood tracking apps are not considered interventions on their own.

Virtual Reality

oVRcome ($)

Pseudo virtual reality for phobias

Provider

oVRcome Limited is a for-profit company in New Zealand.

Link

Language

English

Availability

Worldwide

Pricing (USD)

For adults

  • $29/month for the subscription + $29 for the VR Headset + shipping costs
  • $199/year for the subscription + $29 for the VR Headset + shipping costs

For kids and teenagers

  • $29/month + $29 for the VR Headset + shipping costs

Description from the oVRcome website

Choose your preferred oVRcome program, subscribe to the app, and order your VR headset (or source your own!) to embark on the journey to a new reality.

oVRcome teaches you how to manage anxiety with psychoeducation audio lessons. Then, it puts you in virtual reality environments to practice your new skills with gradual exposure to your fears.

The VR headset is a head mounted casing in which you place your mobile phone (compatible with glasses). If you already have a compatible headset or wish to source your own due to the cost of international shipping, you can opt-out of receiving the oVRcome headset and pay only the subscription.

The subscription give you access to all oVRcome programs on the mobile app, which can be downloaded on the App Store and the Play Store.

Most of our simulations are real-life scenarios filmed with 360 camera for extra realism.

For more information, see the FAQ page

Guidance

The provided tools are unguided, meaning you use them entirely on your own. oVRcome does not provide access to coaches or therapists. However, you can choose to work with a therapist you find independently.

Platform

The programs are available only on smartphones, not on actual VR headset (e.g., Meta Quest or Pico headsets).

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Although oVRcome Limited’s advisory board includes mental health experts, it is unclear whether their core team includes such experts.

Scientific study on the efficacy of oVRcome

Innerworld ($)

CBT groups in virtual reality

Provider

Innerworld is a for-profit company in the United States.

Link

Language

English

Availability

While the website does not provide detail on availability, their privacy policy mentions the following: “Our Services are hosted in the United States and are intended primarily for visitors and users located within the United States, although our Services can be accessed outside of the United States”

Pricing (USD)

  • $20/week

Description from the Innerworld website

Three key elements in Innerworld help reduce anxiety and depression:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Immersion™ (CBI) – Combines CBT techniques with virtual reality for a unique, evidence-driven experience.
  • Peer Coaches – Trained coaches guide sessions and provide support.
  • Immersive Environments – Creates a sense of presence and anonymity, making it easier to open up and learn.

Membership Includes:

  • Guide-led groups – Trained guides teach evidence based tools to better your mental health.
  • Personalized support – Intimate, private groups led by trained guides, matched to support your mental health journey.
  • Access to all of Innerworld – 100+ weekly mental health events, 24/7 access to trained mental health facilitators (Guardians), in-app journaling and more.

Guidance

Innerworld offers meetings with “trained guides”; no further information is offered on the guides’ credentials or their training.

Platform

Innerworld is available on mobile devices, tablets, and Meta Quest VR headsets.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Although Innerworld research collaborators and advisory board include mental health experts, it is unclear whether their core team includes such experts.

Scientific study on the efficacy of Innerworld

Notes on virtual reality

Online psychotherapy with virtual reality

XRHealth, a for-profit company based in the United States, offers virtual reality (VR) therapy services through a telehealth platform that integrates immersive VR environments with remote sessions conducted by licensed therapists. Patients receive a VR headset, typically via rental, and engage in therapy sessions from home. They operate in the United States, Australia, Spain, and Israel. Information on pricing and insurance coverage is offered on the versions of the website for the United States and Australia.

For practitioners and mental health providers

PsyTechVR, a for-profit company based in the United States, offers VR therapy solutions for practitioners, clinics, and health providers seeking to integrate virtual reality into clinical practice. This include a VR headset (Meta Quest), softwares, therapy protocols, and training. They support multiple languages. You can also visit the European version of the website. We wrote to the company and they confirmed that they do not currently offer services directly to individuals seeking treatment.

XRHealth, mentioned above, also offers VR therapy solutions to practitioners, clinics, and mental health providers.

Physical devices

Muse Headbands ($)

Neurofeedback for meditation and sleep

Provider

The Muse headbands are provided by InteraXon Inc., a for-profit company in Canada.

Link

Language

English

Availability

Worldwide

Pricing (USD)

Muse S Athena

  • $569.98

Muse 2

  • $344.98

Premium Subscription

  • $94.99

Description from the Muse website

Muse S Athena

Athena combines EEG + fNIRS technology to measure brain activity, track brain blood flow, and optimize sleep for peak performance.

Muse 2

Muse 2 uses EEG neurofeedback to provide real-time brain training, helping you improve focus and find calm.

Premium Subscription

Unlock over 500 guided meditations and the ability to track your brain with your favorite music players, audiobooks, and meditation apps.

For meditation

Biofeedback training, especially when linked with meditation, is an effective method that helps users gain more control over their body’s and brain’s functions and responses.

Here’s how it works: Muse gives users real-time audio feedback on their brain activity to reinforce an optimal meditative state. Muse measures the user’s brainwave patterns, heart rate, and breathing then gives them real-time audio feedback on their mental state to let them know when they’re in the zone.

For sleep

Equipped with advanced sensors and technology, Muse tracks your sleep stages, deep sleep intensity, and positions providing you with a comprehensive understanding of your sleep patterns.

With responsive real-time sleep experiences, Muse cues your brain to sleep and helps you fall back asleep if you wake up during the night.

You’ll have access to personalized sleep reports that show you how you’re improving over time, giving you the tools you need to build strong sleep habits for the rest of your life.

Platform

The Muse headbands are meant to be used with a dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Although InteraXon Inc. advisory board includes mental health experts, it is unclear whether their core team includes such experts.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Muse

Consumer-Grade Neurofeedback with Mindfulness Meditation: Meta-Analysis

This meta-analysis includes 11 randomized controlled trials testing the effects of using Muse during mindfulness meditation.

Calmigo ($)

Stress relief through breathing regulation

Provider

Calmigo is provided by Dendro Technologies Inc., a for-profit company in the United States.

Link

Language

English
Spanish

Availability

Worldwide

Pricing (USD)

  • 12 months subscription (CalmiGo device and mobile app): $179
  • 24 months subscription (CalmiGo device and mobile app): $249
  • Lifetime subscription (CalmiGo device and mobile app): $319


You will own the CalmiGo device, but it requires a subscription to remain functional.

Description from the Calmigo website

3 Simple Steps to Achieve Calm in 3 Min:

  1. Exhale according to the feedback – CalmiGo learns your breathing pattern and guides you to effortlessly extend your exhalation.
  2. Inhale through your nose – The scent activates parts of your nervous system which induce mind and body relaxation.
  3. Repeat for 3 minutes – CalmiGo grounds your senses, decreases your stress hormones, and activates the part of your brain in charge of calm.

Platform

The Calmigo device can be used with a dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

We were unable to find publicly available information confirming that mental health experts are employed at Dendro Technologies Inc.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Calmigo

While the website reports that four clinical studies have been conducted, at the time of this review, only one has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Apollo Neuro ($)

Vibrations activating the vagus nerve to reduce stress

Provider

Apollo Neuro is provided by Apollo Neuroscience Inc., a for-profit company in the United States.

Link

Language

English

Availability

Worldwide

Pricing (USD)

  • $349 for the Apollo Wearable
  • $378 for the Apollo Wearable and a 1-year subscription to SmartVibes
  • SmartVibes subscription: $99/year when purchased independently

Description from the Apollo website

Apollo Wearable

Apollo wearable delivers gentle, soothing vibrations at frequencies that are designed to signal safety to the brain, enhancing the body’s resilience to stress.

The Apollo wearable helps to retrain your nervous system so you can manage stress more effectively on your own. Though many notice Apollo Neuro’s effects soon after starting a Vibe, it can take up to 30 days of regular use to realize consistent changes in how you feel. Aim for 3+ hours a day, 5+ days a week.

SmartVibe

Apollo is the first technology to prevent wake-ups before they happen. SmartVibes Sleep AI tracks your sleep and learns from your sleep patterns to personalize Vibes just for you, helping you relax before bed and fall asleep faster. SmartVibes also senses when you stir in the night and responds with soothing vibrations to keep you asleep.

SmartVibes gets even smarter if you have an Apollo wearable and an Oura Ring. By connecting your Oura Ring with your Apollo, the SmartVibes AI customizes Vibes, based on your Oura data, that improve how you feel and your health biometrics automatically… day and night, optimizing your body to bounce back more quickly from stress. And you can track your progress in the Oura app.

Platform

The Apollo Wearable is meant to be used with a dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Expert involvement

Mental health experts were involved in the development of the Apollo Wearable and mobile app.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Apollo Neuro

While the website claims that 17 clinical trials have been completed, only two of them have been documented peer-reviewed scientific articles.

Online Psychotherapy

Online-Therapy.com ($)

Online psychotherapy

Provider

Online-Therapy.com is owned by CRN Solutions AB, a for-profit company in Sweden. 

Link

Language

English

Availability

Therapists are based in five countries: the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and Ireland.

The services are for teenagers and adults.

The website does not specify whether users are matched with a therapist in their own region or state.

Pricing (USD)

  • Basic – includes access to the self-help therapy program and asynchronous messaging: $192/month ($48/week)
  • Standard – includes access to the self-help therapy program, asynchronous messaging, and one live 45-minute session per week: $288/month ($72/week)
  • Premium – includes access to the self-help therapy program, asynchronous messaging, and two live 45-minute session per week: $384/month ($96/week)

Insurance

Online-Therapy.com does not accept insurance payment.

Description of the services

  • Structured 8-sections Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program accessible in various formats (videos, audio, and text), usable with or without live therapy sessions. Each section includes worksheets for practicing therapeutic skills.
  • Access to various tools: daily journal, activity plan, yoga and meditation videos.
  • All plans include asynchronous therapist messaging (not live).
  • Live 45-minute therapy sessions are available once per week with the Standard Plan and twice per week with the Premium Plan; there is no live session in the basic plan. Sessions may be conducted via video, voice, or text chat.

Therapy structure

All therapists have a cognitive-behavioral orientation. Therapists with this orientation typically prefer moderately to highly structured therapies, though not always.

Although the website emphasizes the 8-sections program, it does not state whether all therapists are formally trained to deliver it, or whether they systematically follow it during live sessions.

Users can prolong therapy over an extended period (e.g., one year) if they wish.

Therapists’ qualifications

All therapists are licensed.

On the hiring page, therapists are required to hold at least a master’s degree in counseling, social work, clinical psychology, or a related mental health field. However, the website does not specify whether all current therapists on the platform meet this requirement.

Choice of therapist

You may choose a therapist from a list based on region (all therapists’ profiles are available on the website) or be matched automatically based on the information provided during sign-up.

The therapist can be changed if unsatisfied.

Psychiatry (medication)

Online-Therapy.com does not provide psychiatry services.

Platform

The services are available on smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. There is no dedicated mobile app.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Online-Therapy.com

We were unable to find peer-reviewed scientific articles reporting the results of studies testing the effectiveness of Online-Therapy.com.

Brightside Health ($)

Online psychotherapy

Provider

Brightside Health Inc. is a for-profit company in the United States.

Link

Language

English

An interpreter can be present during live video sessions for individuals whose primary language is not English, at no additional cost. Message texts can be automatically translated.

Availability

The services are available exclusively in the United States, across all 50 states, for individuals aged 13 and older.

Therapists are licensed in the same state as the users they serve, as required by law.

Pricing (USD)

  • Therapy Plan, including four 45-min live video sessions and asynchronous messaging: $299/month
  • Additional therapy sessions can be purchased for $59 each.
  • Psychiatry plan, including a remote psychiatric provider evaluation and ongoing provider support and monitoring: $95/month
  • Combined Plan for both therapy and psychiatry services: $349/month
  • Brightside charges a no-show fee if not canceled at least 24 hours in advance, of up to $200 for missed sessions when using insurance.

Insurance

Brightside Health accepts several insurance plans in the US (more than 150 million Americans covered).

Self-pay options are available.

Description of the services

  • A program comprised of 10 video lessons based on the “Unified Protocol” (UP), a therapy that combines mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral principles to target affective processes common to many mental health disorders.
  • Asynchronous therapist messaging (not live).
  • One 45-min weekly live video session with a therapist.
  • Offers a Suicide Prevention Program for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings, but who are not at immediate risk of suicide or self-harm.

Therapy structure

All therapists are provided training in the Unified Protocol and encouraged to use the program comprised of 10 video lessons, which means that the therapy is generally structured. The therapy typically takes 12-16 sessions to complete.

Therapists’ qualifications

All therapists are licensed.

All therapists have a master’s or doctorate degree in clinical psychology, clinical social work, or counseling.

Choice of therapist

When scheduling the first appointment, the user can select their therapist from a list of available providers in their state.

The therapist can be changed if unsatisfied.

Psychiatry (medication)

Brightside Health offers access to psychiatric services for prescribing medication.

No prescription are made for controlled substances (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, or stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin).

Platform

In addition to the web-based platform, a mobile app is available for scheduling appointments, messaging, tracking progress, and accessing video lessons.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Brightside Health

Based on the available information, there is almost certainly substantial overlap in the participants analyzed in some of the studies.

Talkspace ($)

Online psychotherapy

Provider

Talkspace is a publicly traded company in the United States.

Link

Language

Talkspace’s provider network covers 32 languages.

Availability

The services are available worldwide, for individuals aged 13 and older.

For users in the US, therapists are licensed in the same state as the users they serve, as required by law.

International users can be matched with a licensed therapist from the US.

Pricing (USD)

  • Asynchronous messaging (messaging therapy): $276/month (69$/week × 4).
  • One 30-min live session and asynchronous messaging: $396/month ($99/week).
  • One 30-min live session, asynchronous messaging, and access to weekly workshops: $436/month ($109/week).
  • Additional live sessions can be purchased for $65 each.
  • Psychiatry Services: Initial evaluation is $299, with each follow-up session at $175.

Insurance

Talkspace accepts several insurance plans in the US (more than 100 million Americans covered)

Self-pay options are available.

Description of the services

  • Asynchronous therapist messaging (not live).
  • One weekly 30-min live session with a therapist. Sessions may be conducted via video, voice, or text chat.
  • In one of the plans, users can attend therapist-led live workshops on mental health topics and ask questions anonymously, in addition to having access to recordings of past workshops.

Therapy structure

Talkspace does not have a structured therapy program followed by all therapists. Instead, therapy is tailored to each user’s needs based on their therapist’s orientation. The degree to which therapy is structured depends on the therapist’s approach. Those with a cognitive-behavioral orientation tend to provide more structure and may even follow a treatment manual with a predetermined number of sessions, typically 8 to 12. However, this is not guaranteed. Therapists with a psychodynamic or humanistic orientation typically prefer open-ended talk therapies, which have little structure and can vary greatly in duration, ranging from several weeks to several months or even years.

Therapists’ qualifications

All therapists are licensed.

While the main website does not specify the therapists’ degree requirements, an article on their blog states that therapists are typically required to have a master’s degree. Moreover, the scientific article by Hull et al. (2020), described below, also state that “Clinicians in the provider [Talkspace] network were […] required to have a Masters degree or above”.

Choice of therapist

Based on user preferences, the algorithm offers a choice among three therapists; users do not have access to a full list of in-network therapists.

The therapist can be changed if unsatisfied.

Psychiatry (medication)

Talkspace offers access to psychiatric services for prescribing medication.

No prescription are made for controlled substances (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, or stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin).

Platform

In addition to the web-based platform, a mobile app is available for scheduling appointments, messaging, tracking progress, attending workshops (depending on the plan), and accessing mental health exercises and tools.

Data privacy

The privacy policy is available at this address.

Scientific studies on the efficacy of Talkspace

Based on the available information, there is likely significant overlap in the participants analyzed in some of the studies.

Notes on online psychotherapy

Our view of online psychotherapy platforms

We neither fully endorse nor outright reject online therapy platforms. Rather, we see them as an imperfect but sometimes viable option in a context where finding timely, quality one-on-one mental health support is often a challenge. We present these platforms as one potential route to explore.

This information box highlights challenges to watch for, tips to increase the chances of a positive experience, and guidance to help you assess whether using an online therapy platform is the right fit for your situation.

Where to look for reviews

The information above is based primarily on content published on the companies’ websites. The only exception is our analysis of scientific studies evaluating the effectiveness of these platforms, which we conducted independently.

If you are looking for user reviews, two major sources are:


While neither source can fully verify the authenticity of each review, they are among the most impartial and commonly used review platforms available.

Be cautious with blog articles that claim to be written by individuals who have used the therapy platforms. While these may sometimes provide useful insights, they often contain affiliate links, meaning the author likely has a financial incentive to speak positively about the service.

What bad reviews and complaints say

Based on reviews on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau, the most common user negative reviews and complaints about online psychotherapy platforms are:

  • Negative experiences with therapists
  • Therapists leaving the platform before the end of the therapy
  • Technical issues with the mobile app or web platform
  • Non-transparent billing (unexpected charges)
  • Poor customer support


Online-Therapy.com has fewer reviews overall, likely due to its lower user base.

Keep in mind the self-selection bias in online reviews: users with negative experiences may be more motivated to write reviews. For instance, a 70/30 split in positive vs. negative reviews does not necessarily mean that 30% of all users had a bad experience.

Tips to avoid bad experiences

While (some) online therapy platforms may carry a higher risk of connecting with an underqualified or unprofessional provider, this risk also exists when searching independently for a therapist in private practice. Several factors contribute to this:

  • Licensing standards vary significantly across countries and states, with numerous regulatory bodies applying different criteria. Educational background and experience can differ widely between therapists.
  • Therapists operate with a high degree of autonomy. Rather than consistently adopting evidence-based practices (that is, using the treatment best supported by scientific evidence for addressing your particular difficulty), many rely on personal preferences.
  • While continuous professional training is mandatory, therapists have autonomy in choosing which accredited courses they take. They may consistently avoid courses on topics that have high scientific and clinical relevance, but that do not align with their personal interests.
  • Isolation in private practice is common; therapists working for years without peer consultation may be more likely to develop ineffective or inappropriate habits.


The following recommendations apply whether you’re using an online psychotherapy platform or searching for a therapist independently:

  • Make sure your therapist has at least a master’s degree, ideally in psychology, or alternatively in a closely related field.
  • Verify their license using the official registry listing licensed therapists in your region. You can also do a general web search to see if additional background information on this professional is available.
  • Check that their clinical orientation and intervention types match your needs.
  • Don’t settle. If your therapist is unprofessional or simply a poor fit, look for someone else.


Here are some examples of unprofessional behavior in a therapist:

  • Driving, texting, browsing, or otherwise multitasking during sessions
  • Chewing gum, smoking, eating
  • Dominating the conversation, not listening enough
  • Sharing their personal life
  • Forgetting key information from past sessions
  • Offering unqualified advice (for instance, recommending food supplements)
  • Applying pressure to discuss things you are not ready to share
  • Giving advice that feels more like chatting with a friend


A good therapeutic relationship should feel safe, professional, and constructive. While a therapist may kindly invite you to share information, should never feel obligated to do so.

Consider performing an independent therapist search

Before choosing an online psychotherapy platform, consider searching for a licensed therapist independently through the official registry in your region (for instance, the American Psychological Association psychologist locator). There are also directories managed by for-profit companies in some regions (for instance, Headway or Rula), but they only list the therapists that accept to partner with them. As you perform your independent search, you will find therapists that work in clinics or private practice. Some clinics offer general psychotherapy services, while others specialize in treating specific mental health disorders.

Below are some advantages of online psychotherapy platforms VS searching for a therapist independently.

Potential advantages of online psychotherapy platforms

  1. Some platforms offer a mobile or web app that allow you to practice therapeutic skills, access lessons, and/or track progress. This can be helpful, especially since the therapists on these platforms are familiar with the the provided apps. If you choose to seek a therapist independently, there are free and paid mobile apps that offer similar features. However, your therapist may or may not be willing to learn and incorporate your chosen app into your therapy.
  2. Platforms offering a therapy program with a fixed number of sections provide structure, an element often lacking with therapists working in private practice or in clinics offering general psychotherapy services. The drawback is that these structured programs may not feel sufficiently targeted for your specific difficulty, although live sessions can provide personalization.
  3. Text message support is offered by most online psychotherapy platforms. While some therapists in clinics or private practice offer support via text messaging between sessions, this is not always the case.
  4. Online psychotherapy platforms often promote faster access. In that regard, some therapists in clinics or private practice have waitlists, but this is not always the case.

Potential advantages of independent therapist search

  1. For complex or severe mental health issues (PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, etc.), it is often better to see a specialized psychologist, typically found in dedicated clinics.
  2. Doing your own search may give you access to a greater pool of therapist, especially since most therapists offer remote video sessions. Choices may be limited, however, if you have insurance and need to find in-network therapists.
  3. Therapists in clinics or private practice usually allow you to book weekly sessions at the same time each week. This is not always possible on online psychotherapy platforms.
  4. The risk of billing surprises is likely lower, especially when insurances are involved.
  5. The risk of the therapy being interrupted is rather low. On online psychotherapy platforms, some users have complained about the therapy being interrupted by the therapist leaving the platform.
  6. Private practitioners often allow week-to-week billing, unlike the month-based subscriptions of online psychotherapy platforms. With these platforms, if you subscribe to a plan, you will likely be charged whether you use the service or not.

Pricing

Online psychotherapy platforms may or may not be more affordable than therapists working in clinics or private practice, assuming comparable training and experience. Rates for therapists are usually easy to find, so it is worth checking.

Additional options

Additional online psychotherapy platforms – Available in the U.S. only

 

(non-profit organization)

 

(available through insurances or employers; no out-of-pocket option)

 

Telehealth platforms for physical and mental health – Available in the U.S. only

If you are looking for a platform that offers access to various health professionals beyond licensed therapists, here are some popular options in the U.S.

 

 

Platforms with a history of user data mismanagement

The following are online psychotherapy platforms that we do not recommend due to their past history of mishandling sensitive user data.

According to an article by the Federal Trade Commission published on July 13, 2023, “The Federal Trade Commission finalized an order requiring online counseling service BetterHelp to pay $7.8 million and prohibiting it from sharing consumers’ health data for advertising, resolving allegations the firm shared consumers’ sensitive health data with third parties such as Facebook and Snapchat for advertising after promising to keep such data private.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, BetterHelp operates under several names, including Compile, MyTherapist, Teen Counseling, Faithful Counseling, Pride Counseling, iCounseling, ReGain, and Terappueta.

BetterHealth is owned by Teladoc Health, a multinational virtual healthcare company headquartered in the United States.

According to an article by the Federal Trade Commission published on April 15, 2024, “Cerebral will also be required to pay more than $7 million over charges that it disclosed consumers’ sensitive personal health information and other sensitive data to third parties for advertising purposes and failed to honor its easy cancellation promises.”

Confident Health experienced a major breach of user health data in 2024.

Connect with Our Community

Follow us on social media to share moments, emotions, and the small steps that help us feel less alone.

Urgent help

Please note that we are unable to provide immediate support. If you are going through a period of intense distress, we encourage you to seek professional assistance without delay. You may visit the emergency services at your nearest hospital or access a crisis helpline. You may find a helpline in your region on findahelpline.com.

THEOR-E is not affiliated with this service.