‘Self-therapy’ startups are on the rise amid therapist shortages

People are turning to 'self-therapy'.


The Daily Navigator strives to help you make the best decisions in travel. While we produce content according with strict editorial integrity this post may contain references to partner products. Here’s a full explanation for how our team makes money .

Mental health therapy has been in high demand but good luck to anyone trying to find a therapist. As demand for counseling has spiked, so too has a therapist shortage — a huge reason why ‘self-therapy’ apps are on the rise.

As people struggle to find (and afford) therapists, mindfulness apps like Calm and Headspace certainly have their place. But it’s the new wave of ‘self-therapy’ apps like Betterhelp and Talkspace, that are filling the gap to serve those with moderate mental health problems get help when they can’t find a therapist or need near-term help.

Apps like Bloom say that this so-called ‘self-therapy’ helps people “be their own therapist” and address things like stress and anxiety virtually. These mental health apps apply the same cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods as traditional therapy but in a virtual form.

It’s no wonder that apps like Bloom have secured huge investors and seen an uptick in users. These apps can also be more affordable, accessible, and convenient than traditional therapy. Though they are not without their critics, who raise questions about these platforms’ ethics, handling of user data, and ability to act as a substitute for visiting an in-person therapist.

Navigate the News Better

Take a five-minute trip through the news that matters most to travelers with our daily newsletter.

Related Stories

Built with ❤️ by travelers, for travelers.

© 2024 Dollar Flight Club Inc. All Rights Reserved

Stay in the know with
The Navigator Newsletter

A five-minute trip through the news that matters most to travelers. Past Edition

A five-minute trip through the news that matters most to travelers. Past Edition

This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. The relationship may impact how an offer is being presented. Our site doesn’t include all the offers available. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page.

The Daily Navigator Featured Card Popup 3
Best Offer: $1,600 in Free Travel

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points

Plus, you can access over $1,500 in credits on select purchases. 

Partner offer. Terms apply.

DFC Partner Perks App Link Image
Special Discount for Our Members

50% Off Dollar Flight Club Premium

Your Premium Dollar Flight Club Membership will pay for itself the moment you join, because you get access to Partner Perks. You’ll get exclusive discounts on products and services from our favorite travel brands right in your deal dashboard.

DFC Concierge App Link Image
Special Discount for Our Members

93% off lifetime access

Save $1,200 and 10 hours of your time on every vacation. With Lifetime access to DFC Concierge, get fully customized trip itineraries to make every vacation unforgettable.

Dollar Flight Club App Link Image
Special Discount for Our Members

50% Off PREMIUM

You can save up to $500 on your next adventure without lifting a finger get email alerts when we find flights up to 90% off leaving your home airport. Just let us know your departure airport and we’ll do the rest.

The Navigator Commitment

The Daily Navigator is the cornerstone of the DFC Media family. Through each of our brands, we’re dedicated to helping our readers travel, spend, and live smarter.

With products dedicated to affordable travel, daily news, hospitality, and personal finance, we deliver the day’s essential content with none of the filler — all in a way that’s fast, easy, and fun to read. Every morning, over 2 Million travelers trust DFC to deliver the latest news and information so that they can make informed decisions faster. We hope you’ll join them.

We’re happy to have you here!