Talkiatry is the best online postpartum therapy.

Becoming a parent is a profound and transformative experience, marked by moments of joy and challenges alike. While the arrival of a new baby brings immense happiness, it can also bring about emotional and psychological difficulties for new parents. These challenges, often referred to as postpartum issues, encompass a range of emotions and symptoms, including postpartum depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. Treatment options for postpartum issues may include therapy, medication, support groups, and lifestyle changes, such as stress management and maintaining a healthy diet.

Online therapy for postpartum issues has emerged as a convenient and accessible option for new parents who may find it challenging to attend in-person therapy sessions due to various constraints. The best online postpartum therapy services offer privacy, flexibility, and access to a broad range of qualified providers. These services encompass licensed and experienced clinicians, accept most insurance plans, and provide specialized care tailored to individuals experiencing postpartum issues.

Best Online Postpartum Therapy of 2023

1. Best Overall: Talkiatry

2. Best for Postpartum Depression: LifeStance Health

3. Best for Postpartum Anxiety: Thriveworks

4. Best for Group Support: Circles

5. Best Subscription Service: Talkspace

6. Best Flexibility: Wellnite

7. Best for Psychiatry: Doctor on Demand

8. Best for Couples Therapy: Couples Therapy Inc.

9. Best for Pregnancy Loss: The Compassionate Friends

10. Best Directory: GoodTherapy

When considering an online therapy provider, it is advisable to review the company’s privacy policies before signing up to ensure HIPAA compliance and understand how they handle private information. Concerns have been raised by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and government officials regarding the collection and use of user health information by online therapy providers.

Best Online Postpartum Therapy

1. Talkiatry

Key Specs

• Price: Depends on your insurance coverage
• Insurance Accepted?: Yes
• Types of Therapy: Psychiatry and medication management, individual therapy

Why We Chose It

Talkiatry’s user-friendly platform connects you with a psychiatrist who suits your schedule and needs, facilitating access to necessary medication and treatment for postpartum issues. The team of psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists at Talkiatry specializes in treating prenatal and postpartum depression, anxiety, and related concerns.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• You can choose your own psychiatrist.
• Flexible scheduling options.
• Prescriptions can be sent directly to your pharmacy.
• Referrals to in-house therapists if needed.

Cons:

• Talk therapy available only via in-house referral.
• Requires insurance coverage.

Overview

Talkiatry is an online platform that delivers psychiatric care and medication management services to patients. It simplifies the process by allowing patients to choose suitable psychiatrists for virtual appointments based on their mental health needs and medical history. Talkiatry specifically addresses postpartum issues with experienced psychiatrists who can prescribe appropriate medications to manage depression while minimizing risks for both parent and baby.

Your psychiatrist will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes medication. This plan is continuously assessed and adjusted to meet your evolving needs and objectives. The initial session lasts one hour, followed by half-hour follow-up sessions.

Note: As of 2023, Talkiatry is available in 42 states. Visit the website to verify service availability in your state.

Types of Treatment Available

Talkiatry offers psychiatry and medication management. If your psychiatrist deems it necessary, they can refer you to a Talkiatry therapist for talk therapy alongside your medication treatment.

Plans & Pricing

To use Talkiatry’s services, you must have insurance. The price you pay depends on your insurance type and copay. Fortunately, Talkiatry accepts insurance from most major providers, including Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more.

User Survey and Testing Insights:

Talkiatry has received positive user ratings, with 96% of respondents rating its services as good, very good, or excellent overall in a survey of 105 users. Additionally, 81% of respondents expressed satisfaction with their experience, and 47% stated they were very likely to recommend Talkiatry’s services to others.

2. LifeStance Health

Key Specs

• Price: $75 to $300 per session without insurance
• Insurance Accepted?: Yes
• Types of Therapy: Individual, group, children’s, teen, family, psychiatry, medication management

Why We Chose It

LifeStance Health boasts a network of providers experienced in addressing postpartum depression and is equipped to prescribe medication when necessary. You can choose between in-person or online therapy, and the company collaborates with numerous insurance plans.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Both in-person and online sessions available.
• Freedom to choose your therapist.
• Acceptance of most insurance plans.
• Easy transition between therapists.

Cons:

• Availability limited to 33 states.
• Customer support regarding billing issues can be lacking.

Overview

LifeStance Health is a rapidly expanding mental healthcare provider with over 600 locations nationwide. It offers a team of therapists, psychiatrists, and other medical professionals who focus on treating perinatal and postpartum depression, along with other mental health conditions. The company offers both in-person and online therapy options to cater to individual preferences.

You can easily filter providers to find those with experience in treating postpartum depression and read reviews for each provider to select the most suitable match. As of October 2023, LifeStance is available in 33 states, with ongoing efforts to expand its services.

Types of Treatment Available

LifeStance Health provides individual, group, children’s, teen, and family therapy, as well as psychiatry and medication management. It offers therapy and medication tailored to parents experiencing postpartum depression.

Plans & Pricing

For out-of-pocket therapy, session costs range from $75 to $300, depending on the provider. Initial evaluations with a psychiatrist are priced between $200 and $300 for out-of-pocket payment, while follow-up psychiatry appointments typically cost between $150 and $250. However, LifeStance Health collaborates with insurance providers to reduce patient costs.

It’s important to note that LifeStance Health does not offer subscription-based services, so you will be billed per session. Nevertheless, the company accepts most major insurance plans, potentially reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.

User Survey and Testing Insights

User satisfaction at LifeStance Health was notably high, with 88% of surveyed users expressing satisfaction. Among the 105 surveyed patients, 3% sought assistance from LifeStance Health for postpartum depression. Users commended the ease of scheduling appointments, with 80% stating they were likely or very likely to recommend the service to friends.

3. Thriveworks

Key Specs

• Price: $0-$50 per session with insurance; $200 per session without
• Insurance Accepted?: Yes
• Types of Therapy: Individual, family, children and teen, couples, psychiatry, medication management

Why We Chose It

Thriveworks offers a wide array of counseling services and employs qualified therapists and psychiatrists who can effectively treat postpartum anxiety at an affordable price point. They provide the flexibility of booking same-day or next-day sessions for quick assistance.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Availability of same-day and next-day therapy sessions.
• Easy session cancellation or rescheduling.
• Hour-long therapy sessions.
• Some locations offer psychiatry and medication management.

Cons:

• Not all locations offer psychiatry and medication management.

Overview

Thriveworks is distinguished for its exceptional online counseling services via video or phone. It stands out by offering same-day and next-day sessions, providing quick access to mental health support. Thriveworks maintains high standards, hiring only the top 4% of providers.

Clients have the freedom to choose their preferred provider, ensuring comfort and compatibility with their therapist. In select locations, Thriveworks offers psychiatry and medication management for cases requiring more than talk therapy to address postpartum anxiety.

Types of Treatment Available

Thriveworks provides individual, couples, teen, and group therapy, as well as psychiatry and medication management. The company tailors counseling to address postpartum anxiety and can prescribe anti-anxiety medications if deemed necessary.

Plans & Pricing

Thriveworks offers affordability, falling within the average out-of-pocket cost range for therapy. With insurance, therapy sessions typically cost between $0 and $50 per session, depending on the copay (subject to deductibles). Without insurance, therapy sessions are priced at $200 per session. Thriveworks does not offer subscription-based services, so each session is billed individually.

User Survey and Testing Insights

User satisfaction with Thriveworks was notably high, with 90% of surveyed users reporting positive experiences. Of the 105 users surveyed, 6% sought treatment for postpartum issues such as anxiety and depression at Thriveworks. Furthermore, 80% expressed a willingness to recommend Thriveworks to friends, indicating overall satisfaction with the services provided.

4. Doctor on Demand

Key Specs

• Price: $134 for a 25-minute session, $184 for a 50-minute session
• Insurance Accepted?: Yes
• Types of Therapy: Individual, teen counseling, psychiatry, medication management

Why We Chose It

Doctor on Demand provides quick access to therapists after sign-up, along with 24/7 coaching support. It allows you to choose your provider based on their background and specialties, including postpartum depression.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• App is easy to use
• Therapists have lots of experience
• You can choose your own therapist

Cons:

• Doesn’t have text messaging
• No group therapy

Overview

Doctor on Demand’s mission is to enhance the availability of patient-centered, cost-effective healthcare. It gives you 24/7 access to doctors, psychiatrists, and therapists. Each of its licensed providers has, on average, more than 15 years of experience. Doctor on Demand has clinicians who specialize in postpartum issues, and even names it as one of the main conditions it treats on its website.

Doctor on Demand is great for those who are considering therapy or psychiatry services but are uncertain about the type of support required. The company provides a complimentary assessment to screen for anxiety and depression, so you can get the right care.

With Doctor on Demand, you have the ability to select your provider by reviewing profiles and determining who best suits your needs. In addition to psychiatric and therapeutic services, the company also offers emergency care seven days a week. You can schedule appointments online or through the mobile app.

Types of Treatment Available

Doctor on Demand offers individual and teen counseling, psychiatry, and medication management. Many of the providers working with Doctor on Demand specialize in postpartum depression and women’s health.

Plans & Pricing

Doctor on Demand is not a subscription service. You pay per session, and fees are as follows:

• $79 for a 15-minute consultation with a board-certified clinician
• $134 for a 25-minute or $184 for a 50-minute consultation with a psychologist
• $299 for an initial 45-minute consultation and $129 for 15-minute follow-up with a psychiatrist

Doctor on Demand does accept insurance, which may greatly reduce the cost. Medicare Part B has a $0 copay for urgent and everyday care. Doctor on Demand does not list other accepted insurance, and instead asks that you download the app and enter your insurance information to see how much your visits will cost.

User Survey and Testing Insights:

Ninety-four percent of Doctor on Demand’s users rated its services as good, very good, or excellent, which was the fourth-highest satisfaction rating among all 55 companies we reviewed. This is due to its highly qualified and experienced team of doctors and psychologists that provide you with exceptional care. In addition, 8% of users said they sought care from Doctor on Demand for help with postpartum-related issues, and 91% said their therapist’s qualifications were good to excellent.

5. Couples Therapy Inc.

Key Specs

• Price: Therapy sessions start at $175/session; retreats cost $3,500
• Insurance Accepted?: No
• Types of Therapy: Couples, individual

Why We Chose It

Couples Therapy Inc. offers evidence-based therapy using The Gottman Method specifically designed for couples. Its therapists can help couples dealing with postpartum issues support and uplift each other.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Offers in-person weekend retreats for more intense therapy
• Therapy is designed for couples
• Free self-guided help available

Cons:

• Expensive
• Doesn’t take insurance

Overview

Couples Therapy Inc. is a Boston-based company that provides evidence-based couples therapy based on The Gottman Method and emotionally-focused therapy (EFT). The company offers two approaches to therapy: in-person retreats and three-month sessions over video chat or in person.

Couples Therapy Inc. recognizes that postpartum issues affect both parents and can put a strain on any relationship. The company aims to provide advice and techniques to help couples manage stress and work together to improve their mental health.

Types of Treatment Available

Couples Therapy Inc. offers individual and couples therapy, including therapy specific to postpartum depression and anxiety.

Plans & Pricing

Unfortunately, Couples Therapy Inc. does not accept insurance and the service is not cheap. The company offers weekend retreats that start at $3,500, which doesn’t include lodging, travel, or food expenses. Therapy session costs start at $175 for a 55-minute session, depending on the provider.

User Survey and Testing Insights

Users seemed pleased with the therapy they received at Couples Therapy Inc., and 80% of people said their needs were met. Plus, 8% said they selected Couples Therapy, Inc. for postpartum issues, and 35% said the techniques the company specializes in factored into their decision. Overall, 91% of users rated Couples Therapy Inc.’s services as good, very good, or excellent.

6. The Compassionate Friends

Key Specs

• Price: Free
• Insurance Accepted?: No
• Types of Therapy: Support groups

Why We Chose It:

The Compassionate Friends is a non-profit organization that offers free support for parents who have lost a child.

Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Free
• Over 600 physical locations throughout the world
• Virtual chapters provide online support

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer therapy or psychiatry services from trained professionals

Overview

The Compassionate Friends is a non-profit organization that provides support to families who have experienced the loss of a child. It was established in 1969 and has grown to become one of the largest self-help bereavement organizations in the world, with chapters in over 30 countries.

The organization offers various support services, including in-person support groups and online communities. Its mission is to provide comfort, hope, and support to families grieving the loss of a child and to assist them in their journey toward healing. The Compassionate Friends is staffed by trained volunteers who are themselves bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents.

Types of Treatment Available

The Compassionate Friends offers bereavement support groups for couples, individuals, and families.

Plans & Prices

There is no charge for The Compassionate Friends’ services, but you are welcome to donate.

User Survey and Testing Insights

Although we didn’t survey anyone for feedback on The Compassionate Friends, reviews online report generally favorable experiences with the nonprofit. You’ll connect and share with other parents and families that are going through a similar experience. They can offer support, guidance, and wisdom for coping with loss. We feel comfortable recommending The Compassionate Friends’ services because of its specific focus on grief and support after the loss of a child.

7. GoodTherapy

Key Specs

• Price: Varies by provider
• Insurance Accepted?: Varies by provider
• Types of Therapy: Individual, couples, family, child, teen, and group counseling

Why We Chose It

GoodTherapy is an online directory that helps you find a therapist or psychologist that’s right for you and your needs, including providers who treat postpartum issues.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Extensive therapist directory
• Providers offer in-person and online therapy
• Several providers specialize in postpartum therapy

Cons:

• Therapy rates vary by provider
• Not all therapists accept insurance

Overview

GoodTherapy is a mental health resource website and directory of mental health professionals. It provides a platform for individuals to search and connect with licensed therapists and mental health practitioners.

GoodTherapy helps users find a therapist based on location, insurance, and specific needs, such as therapy approach or specialization. You can filter therapists by specialty, including postpartum depression, as well as the type of service they offer.

The website offers a wide range of information on mental health topics, including articles, videos, and resources for individuals, couples, families, and children. You can search its blog for content specifically pertaining to postpartum issues and birth trauma. GoodTherapy is dedicated to promoting mental wellness and the informed choice of therapy and provides a safe, secure, and non-judgmental environment for those seeking help.

Types of Treatment Available

The therapists listed at GoodTherapy offer a variety of services, including individual, family, children and teen therapy, and marriage and couples counseling. You can also find psychiatrists that provide medication management.

Plans & Pricing

The price per session will vary depending on the provider and the type of insurance you have.

User Survey and Testing Insights

Ninety-five percent of the 180 users of GoodTherapy who we surveyed rated this directory as good or very good, and 34% felt that its therapists had better qualifications, experience, and specialized training than on other directories they’d used. Though only 3% of our users turned to GoodTherapy for treatment for postpartum depression and anxiety, 93% felt the therapists’ qualifications on this directory were good or very good.

Conclusion

In summary, postpartum issues can affect anyone, and seeking help is a crucial step toward recovery and well-being. Online postpartum therapy services offer convenience, flexibility, and access to qualified professionals who can provide the necessary support, therapy, and medication management.

Talkiatry stands out as the best overall option, providing a user-friendly platform for connecting with experienced psychiatrists who specialize in treating postpartum issues. LifeStance Health offers excellent options for those dealing with postpartum depression, while Thriveworks provides effective solutions for postpartum anxiety. Doctor on Demand is an ideal choice for psychiatry services, and Couples Therapy Inc. specializes in evidence-based couples therapy. For those coping with pregnancy loss, The Compassionate Friends offers invaluable support, while GoodTherapy serves as an extensive directory to help you find the right therapist for your needs.

Ultimately, choosing the best online postpartum therapy service depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and the specific challenges you’re facing. Always consult with a qualified mental health professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your postpartum journey. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and self-care, and it can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being for both you and your family.