When considering therapy, many people want to know what to expect from their sessions. This includes practical details like how long therapy sessions typically last and how to make the most of that time. BetterHelp, the world’s largest online therapy platform, offers a variety of session formats and flexible durations to meet diverse needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore what you can expect from a BetterHelp therapy session, how to get the most out of it, and what makes it unique compared to traditional therapy.
Standard BetterHelp Session Length
BetterHelp live sessions typically last between 30 and 45 minutes, though the exact duration can vary depending on the therapist and the client’s needs. This timeframe mirrors traditional in-person therapy, where sessions usually range from 30 to 60 minutes. However, BetterHelp distinguishes itself by offering flexibility in how these sessions are conducted, accommodating individual preferences.
The platform’s approach emphasizes that the effectiveness of therapy is not just about the length of individual sessions but finding a communication style that works best for each person. Some clients may benefit from shorter, more frequent sessions, while others may prefer longer, more in-depth discussions on a less frequent basis.
Session Format Options: Flexibility for Every Need
BetterHelp offers multiple ways to engage with therapists, providing flexibility for different preferences and schedules:
- Video Conferencing: Live face-to-face sessions through secure video channels for more personal interactions.
- Phone Calls: Voice-only sessions for clients who prefer audio communication.
- Live Messaging: Real-time text exchanges with therapists for clients who need immediate support.
- Asynchronous Messaging: The option to send messages to therapists between sessions, allowing for ongoing communication without needing to wait for the next scheduled meeting.
This flexibility is one of the platform’s standout features. Clients can choose between these different formats depending on their needs at any given time. For example, someone may prefer video sessions for deep conversations but opt for phone calls during times of limited privacy or technical issues.
The ability to switch between communication methods is key to maintaining therapeutic momentum and adapting to life’s unpredictable nature. A client can switch from video to messaging without disrupting the flow of their therapy.
Beyond Scheduled Sessions: Continuous Support
One of BetterHelp’s most valuable features is its ability to provide continuous support outside of formal therapy sessions. All BetterHelp subscription plans include messaging capabilities, allowing clients to reach out to their therapists anytime they need support or guidance.
Therapists will respond to these messages when they’re available, helping clients process thoughts and emotions between scheduled sessions. This ongoing support is especially beneficial for individuals who want to keep therapeutic progress on track during challenging moments or after significant breakthroughs.
Many BetterHelp users find this feature particularly helpful, as it allows them to express themselves and receive support when issues are freshest in their minds. Plus, clients can always review their therapists’ messages, reflecting on guidance and insights whenever necessary.
Scheduling Flexibility: Therapy on Your Terms
BetterHelp therapists offer more flexible appointment times than traditional in-person providers, with many available for evening and weekend sessions. Since BetterHelp therapists work remotely, they often have greater availability compared to those tied to office hours. This provides clients with more freedom to schedule therapy around their daily lives.
Clients can view available time slots directly within their BetterHelp account, selecting times that best fit their schedules. This ease of scheduling removes many of the barriers that often prevent people from attending therapy regularly, such as work hours or commute times.
Additional Support Resources
BetterHelp goes beyond one-on-one sessions, offering additional support resources to enhance the therapeutic experience. These tools help clients continue making progress even when they’re not in active therapy sessions:
- Group Sessions: BetterHelp provides over 20 weekly group therapy sessions on various mental health topics, allowing clients to connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
- Journaling Tools: Clients can use an online therapy journal to track thoughts and emotions between sessions.
- Worksheets: Therapists may suggest therapeutic exercises to work on between sessions, providing clients with actionable tasks that reinforce the progress made in therapy.
These resources ensure that therapy remains integrated into clients’ lives, supporting them beyond scheduled therapy appointments.
Maximizing the Value of Therapy Sessions
To get the most out of BetterHelp therapy, clients are encouraged to:
- Prepare Topics in Advance: Write down questions or concerns before the session to ensure that important issues aren’t overlooked.
- Be Present: Find a quiet, private space for sessions to minimize distractions and ensure a productive conversation.
- Take Notes: Recording key insights during or after sessions helps clients implement therapeutic suggestions into their daily lives.
- Provide Feedback: Open communication with therapists about what’s working and what isn’t allows them to adjust their approach accordingly.
- Utilize Between-Session Messaging: Don’t wait for your next appointment—send messages as needed to keep the therapeutic process moving forward.
Professional Standards and Quality Assurance
All BetterHelp therapists are licensed mental health professionals, including psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and professional counselors. Each therapist has at least 1,000 hours of practical experience, ensuring high-quality care.
BetterHelp maintains strict quality assurance by continuously monitoring service delivery metrics and client feedback. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on millions of client ratings, BetterHelp consistently delivers high satisfaction rates.
Finding the Right Balance for Your Therapy
While BetterHelp typically includes one live session per week, some clients may benefit from additional sessions based on their needs. For those interested in more frequent live interactions, supplemental sessions can be arranged for an additional fee, depending on the therapist’s availability.
Choosing the right session frequency is a personal decision, and it can be discussed with your therapist. Some individuals may prefer weekly sessions, especially when starting therapy or facing difficult life events, while others may find biweekly sessions combined with regular messaging sufficient.
The flexibility of BetterHelp makes it easier for clients to adapt therapy to their personal circumstances, offering access to professional mental health support that works for their schedule and needs.
