Headspace is a better option for users seeking guided meditation and mindfulness tools with a focus on stress and anxiety reduction, while BetterHelp is more suitable for individuals needing direct therapy with licensed professionals for a broader range of mental health issues. The choice depends on individual needs and preferences regarding therapy type, cost, and privacy concerns.
| Attribute | Headspace Meditation App (Version 2025) | BetterHelp Counseling |
|---|---|---|
| App Platform Availability | iOS, Android, and Web | iOS, Android, and Web |
| Subscription Cost and Trial Period | Monthly: $12.99 with a 7-day free trial, Annually: $69.99 with a 14-day free trial, Family Plan: $19.99/month or $99.99/year for up to 6 members, Student Plan: $9.99/year | Generally ranges from $65 to $100 per week, billed every four weeks (roughly $260 to $400 per month). Pay-per-session price: $110 per session. Maintenance plan (monthly sessions): $200 monthly. No free trial. Discounts for the first month or financial aid may be available. |
| Range of Mental Health Topics Covered | Stress, anxiety, sleep, focus, work, physical activity, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management | Stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and grief. |
| Types of Therapy Offered | Individual therapy using CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) | Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, family systems therapy, and group therapy. |
| Counselor/Therapist Qualifications and Screening Process | Headspace provides access to licensed therapists | Therapists must have at least 3 years and 2,000 hours of hands-on experience. Thorough vetting process, verifying educational backgrounds, credentials, and licenses. Checks licenses with state licensing boards and runs background checks. Only about one-third of applicants are accepted. |
| User Privacy and Data Security Measures | Headspace uses a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform | Employs industry-standard security measures like 256-bit encryption and SSL encryption. Strict privacy policies. However, BetterHelp has faced criticism for data handling practices, including sharing user data with companies like Facebook and Snapchat. In 2023, they settled with the FTC and agreed to pay $7.8 million to customers for sharing health data. |
| Accessibility Features | Available in French | Keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and closed captions. |
| Meditation Techniques and Guided Content Variety | Offers 500+ guided meditations and mindfulness tools. Includes breathwork, body scan meditations, and mindful awareness practices | Access to group sessions, webinars, and resources. |
| Progress Tracking and Goal Setting Features | Offers progress tracking for stress and anxiety. Tracks meditation practice and provides reminders | Personalized dashboard, therapy sessions, messages, progress notes, goal tracking, and personal journaling. |
| Communication Methods with Therapists | Virtual one-on-one sessions with licensed therapists | Text, video conferencing, phone calls, or live chat. |
| Customer Support Responsiveness and Availability | Support is available through the app developer | Customer service has been rated positively by a majority of users. |
| User Reviews and Ratings on App Stores | Apple App Store: 4.8 stars, Google Play Store: 4.3-4.5 stars | Android App Store: 4.6 out of 5 stars. iOS App Store: 4.6 out of 5 stars. |