Therapy and mental health apps

therapy and mental Health Apps

Information for Professional Counselors

There are some key differences between types of platforms and services. 
Therapy Apps

Telehealth Apps and Websites:

Apps or virtual platforms for smartphone or computer users to connect with a therapist or psychiatric provider and receive virtual/telehealth treatment services through the app or via another telehealth platform. 

Traditional Therapy

Traditional Therapy/Treatment Apps:

Companies or businesses that provide services directly to consumers. The providers are typically full- or part-time employees. These can best be compared to traditional models of service provision, for example, when the company providing the service owns the building where health care services are offered and is responsible for the services provided because their employees offer care.

Emerging Therapy

Emerging Therapy/Treatment Apps:

Apps run by a company that partners with providers who are considered “independent contractors,” meaning the company itself doesn’t provide treatment services. The providers are independent and are not considered employees of the company providing the platform. These apps can be understood using the metaphor of a shopping mall with vendors operating independent businesses and leasing virtual stalls or stores. These apps are essentially a virtual location where health care services are offered.

Mental Health Apps

Mental Health Apps:

Self-help education or guided activities that are not treatment but can potentially benefit one’s health and well-being. 

Digital Therapeutics

Digital Therapeutics:

Apps or websites that provide FDA-approved services that target symptoms of a medical condition. 

Mixed use and websites

Mixed-Use Apps and Websites:

Apps and services that provide a combination of self-help resources and mental health treatment services via their platforms.