“Better” Help? Ethical Considerations for Therapists Using Telehealth Matching Platforms

Third party “therapy matching” platforms such as BetterHelp offer easily accessible and affordable therapy for the lay public. While at face these companies meet this goal, a recent FTC complaint highlighted issues around client data security and privacy. The introduction of profit-motivated third parties into the therapeutic relationship brings forth new ethical dilemmas for clinicians. This commentary focuses on relevant APA Ethical Standards and Guidelines related to a clinician’s decision to work with these companies and provides guidance on the decision-making process.