5 online therapy options that are ideal for busy moms

Not that long ago, self-care had a negative connotation. And going to therapy, whether in-person or online therapy, was riddled with just as much taboo. The hush-hush tone around mental illness didn’t make the statistics any less dire; it just made people feel less supported. That stigma meant that prioritizing your mental health just kept falling lower on the list—especially for moms, who are already juggling numerous responsibilities.

Thankfully, we’re starting to see this change. According to Motherly’s 2023 State of Motherhood survey, this year finds an increase in the percentage of moms who have sought mental health therapy in the past year, to 46% from 43% in 2022. In addition, moms report using more sessions than last year, with 18% saying they have attended 11 or more therapy sessions this past year compared to 15% who reported 11 or more in 2022.

Related: More moms are finally reaping the benefits of going to therapy—and so are their kids

Advancements in online therapy platforms have grown over the last few years, contributing to shifting conversations around mental health, reducing stigma and helping to normalize the act of seeking support.

In some cases, peer support can also be helpful—especially when it comes ot dealing with postpartum depression. Recent research discovered that women who joined virtual talk therapy groups led by moms who had recovered from PPD were 11 times more likely to see their depression lift compared to those in non-peer-led therapy groups.

The access to therapy online has made it easier for those who wouldn’t have normally sought help because of distance or too much time away from other responsibilities, like caring for young children. And while finding the right therapist can still be a lengthy process, online therapy platforms allow many, moms included, to research, book and attend therapy sessions, all from the comfort of their own homes—sometimes without even lining up additional childcare. 

Related: Prioritizing my mental health wasn’t easy, but it made me a better mom

Here are 5 online therapy platforms making it easier for moms to get mental health support

1. Momwell

Why we love it

Specializing in maternal mental health, Momwell offers a blended model of traditional therapy alongside educational resources to work on at your own pace. From partner support to parenting support to general help on your motherhood journey, we love their mini courses and their upfront approach to pricing.

What it costs

Momwell offers a free 15-minute consultation with one of their mom therapists before booking your first session. A 1-hour session with a registered psychologist or PhD-level therapist runs $175 to $220. A session with a master’s-level psychotherapist, counselors and social workers runs $150 to $175.

2. MDLive

Why we love it

Think of MDLive as your virtual therapy neighborhood clinic. The online therapy platform allows you to use your health insurance and instead of matching you to a therapist themselves, has a directory of therapists you can choose from. In addition to talk therapists, MDLive also offers psychiatric support, in case medication is part of your support plan. The platform is convenient for moms who may need both psychotherapy and psychiatric services, since you can get both all in one virtual place. It’s also helpful for moms looking for mental health support for both themselves and any children over the age of 10 years old. 

What it costs

MDLive accepts health insurance. The appointment cost for talk therapy, depending on your insurance, ranges from $0 to $108, and for psychiatry, from $0 to $284. 

Related: Research shows the toxic effects momfluencers have on our mental health

3. Teladoc

Why we love it

Similar to pediatric telehealth platforms, Teladoc is a telehealth option that can address both your physical and mental health. The platform allows you to choose your own provider, offers psychiatric support and accepts insurance. Teladoc also touts privacy as one of its top features. All sessions are hosted on its own proprietary virtual communications platform. 

What it costs

Teladoc accepts health insurance. The range is $0 to $99 for therapy and around $0 to $299 for psychiatric appointments. 

Related: Therapy made me a better mom—and wife

4. Sesh

Why we love it

If the thought of seeing a virtual therapist has you wondering “Is online therapy effective or even right for me?”—it may be helpful to do more traditional in-person therapy, while supplementing with virtual support groups led by licensed professionals. Sesh is convenient, particularly for new moms who may be navigating the early stages of postpartum depression and feel moved to hear others’ stories as well. Various group sessions are held daily and the online therapy platform allows you to find a session that best matches your specific area of concern. 

What it costs

Sesh works on a per session or subscription model, depending on your user preference. Each individual session is $30, or you can sign up for a subscription of $60 per month. Sesh also offers a two-week free trial. 

5. Accessing online therapists through your insurance 

Why we love it

If your mental health needs are less urgent, but still something you’d like addressed sooner rather than later, your own health insurance is a great place to start. This also addresses any worries around how much online therapy might cost. Since the pandemic, many therapists that are typically covered by insurance have started offering virtual sessions in addition to in-person meetings. You’ll have fewer hoops to jump through to get your mental health support covered if you’re already seeking out therapists within your network. (Lower out-of-pocket costs also may make it more viable for you to stick with therapy in the long-term.)  

What it costs

Costs will depend on your health insurance and deductibles. 

Related: Why I give my kids mental health days

A note from Motherly: Online therapy

Recognizing you might benefit from seeking support for your mental health is the first step toward feeling better. Online therapy can be ideal for mothers at any stage of motherhood, namely because you can schedule an appointment around your schedule—all without leaving home.

A version of this story was originally published on Nov. 2, 2022. It has been updated.