How to Build Your Own BetterHelp
Replace BetterHelp with a custom build. Professional Therapy With A Licensed Therapist
Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
Estimated Timeline
Based on 16 features at Weekend Project difficulty, expect about One weekend with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 16 features
Communication(4 features)
Real-time conversation over instant messaging with your therapist
Send and receive messages to your therapist anytime, no scheduling required
Talk with your therapist over the phone at a scheduled time
Face-to-face session with your therapist over video at a scheduled time
Core Service(3 features)
Therapists specializing in specific issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, grief, stress, parenting, addictions, eating, sleeping, anger, family conflicts, LGBT matters, religion, and self-esteem
Smart provider matching system that connects users to a therapist from a pool of over 31,000 providers based on needs, preferences, and demographics
Choose from Individual therapy, Couples therapy (via Regain.us), or Teen therapy (via TeenCounseling.com)
Account Management(2 features)
Ability to gift BetterHelp membership to friends and loved ones
If unhappy with your therapist, click a button and get matched to another provider
Accessibility(1 features)
Access therapy from anywhere using a phone or computer, reach out to therapist anytime
Community(1 features)
Free access to 20+ weekly live interactive group seminars delivered by expert therapists
Credibility(1 features)
All therapists are licensed professionals (PhD/PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPC, LMHC) with at least 3 years experience and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience
Documentation(1 features)
Therapists can take notes during sessions with client notification
Payment(1 features)
Platform accepts HSA/FSA cards and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying BetterHelp
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 16 features at very easy complexity.