Top Rated Therapy For Children & Teens Ages 8-18

Book a 30-minute free consult call to explore your child’s needs.

See why parents prefer Handspring.

Trusted by 2,000+ Parents
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Mother and daughter smiling and waving during a video call at home.
Trusted by 2,000+ Parents
Book My free consult

Handspring vs. BetterHelp

BetterHelp

Virtual Therapy
Virtual Therapy
Licensed clinicians online
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Licensed clinicians online
Care Model
Evidence-based Care for Kids & Teens
Evidence-based care for kids & teens
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General therapy marketplace
Who Provides Care
Employed, Clinically Supervised Therapists
Employed, clinically supervised therapists
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Independent providers
Therapist Weekly Training
Therapist Weekly Training Required
Required
Required
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Optional
Optional
Clinical Oversight
Ongoing Clinical Supervision
Ongoing clinical supervision
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Therapists are independent and responsible for care
Insurance & Cost
Most Major Insurance Accepted
Most major insurance accepted
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Limited insurance accepted. Subscription-based pricing
Getting Started
Free Consult + Therapist Matching
Free consult + therapist matching
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Paid subscription
Who It’s Built For
Built For Kids, Teens & Young Adults (8–26)
Kids, teens & young adults (8–26)
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Only adults 18+
Only adults 18+

Here's What Happens on Your Consult Call

Your consultation is a 30-minute conversation with one of our intake coordinators.
It’s designed to help you feel confident about next steps and understand how therapy works at Handspring.
1

Talk about your child’s challenges and goals

2

Learn about our evidence-based therapy model

3

Get matched to a therapist if it’s a good fit

Parents Love Us!

5 stars

“There has been a marked change in my daughter's ability to cope with anxiety and stressors and using the coping skills she learned she has been able to get through situations that she couldn't before. Her self confidence has also increased. Many thanks to Shanna - my daughter was sad to not see her each week any more, but the reason for that was a great one.”

Satisfied female client sharing her positive mental health experience with our therapy services for children, teens, and families.
Jessica P.
NJ Handspring Mom
5 stars

“Megan was so valuable to our family during a trying time in our lives. My son needed someone to understand him and show him how to ask for help when he needs it. He has gone from failing multiple classes to being an honor student. He’s been so helpful around the house and is all around a happy child. We’re so grateful that we made the choice to go with Handspring.”

Satisfied female client sharing her positive mental health experience with our therapy services for children, teens, and families.
Sarah K.
FL Handspring Mom
5 stars

“Lindsay LITERALLY changed not just my daughter's life, but our entire family dynamic. We thought we were going to have to consider homeschool, as she was experiencing debilitating separation anxiety. We assumed she would end up on medication - not only did she not need medication, she has not missed a single day of school this year.”

Satisfied female client sharing her positive mental health experience with our therapy services for children, teens, and families.
Hannah D.
NJ Handspring Mom
5 stars

"I have seen a huge improvement in the way my daughter communicates, manages her emotions, and behaves since she started her weekly sessions. I am so grateful to see such a positive impact with her and within a short period of time. Tried other solutions and none worked. Thankful for Handspring services helping our family."

Satisfied female client sharing her positive mental health experience with our therapy services for children, teens, and families.
Amanda P.
CA Handspring Mom
5 stars

"We were so happy with the care our son received. There has been such a change in him over the past year and we are so grateful! Morgan was able to connect with him so well and teach him so many skills that he now uses every day. Thank you all so much for everything you have done!"

Satisfied female client sharing her positive mental health experience with our therapy services for children, teens, and families.
Ashley B.
NY Handspring Mom

FAQs

What happens during the consult call?

Your 30-minute consult is a chance to share what’s going on for your child, learn about Handspring’s approach, and see if we’re the right fit. We’ll walk through your goals, answer questions, and outline what care could look like for your family.

Who joins the call?

Typically, a parent or guardian joins the call. If your child is 18 or older, they’re welcome to join directly — or together with you if that feels best.

What if my child wants to change therapists?

It can take time to build comfort and trust. We typically encourage families to continue with their matched therapist for about a month to allow progress to take shape. If, after that, it still doesn’t feel like the right fit, we’ll help you find another provider and make a smooth transition so care continues without interruption.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No referral is needed. Parents and caregivers can book directly with us — it only takes a few minutes.

When can therapy start?

Most families begin therapy within a week of their consult. There’s no waitlist, so your child can get started quickly with the right therapist.

Are sessions virtual or in person?

All sessions are 100% virtual. Your child can meet their therapist from home, school, or any private space that’s comfortable and convenient.

What if I want a consult for multiple children?

We’re happy to accommodate families with multiple children. Consults last 30 minutes for one child, 45 minutes for two, and 60 minutes for three.

Can I set boundaries for what’s discussed in therapy?

Absolutely. The consult call is your opportunity to share your family’s goals, preferences, and any boundaries you’d like your therapist to respect. We’ll ensure your child’s care aligns with your family’s values and comfort level.

What age range do you treat?

We provide virtual therapy for:

  • Children ages 8–12
  • Teenagers ages 13–17
  • Young adults ages 18–29
  • Parents of children over age 2 for parent coaching and support.

Where is Handspring available?

We’re currently available in California, Florida, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

What is your clinical approach?

Our therapists primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — the gold-standard, first-line treatment for anxiety, depression, and other common mental health challenges.
Our approach emphasizes:

  • Practical, age-appropriate skill-building
  • Active participation and collaboration
  • Parental involvement in care
  • Strengths-based focus
  • Ongoing progress tracking and feedback

What is your approach to parenting support?

We use Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) — a proven, interactive approach that helps parents manage challenging behaviors and build stronger relationships. You’ll learn, practice, and apply skills in real-world scenarios with guidance from your therapist to build confidence and consistency at home.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes — we’re in-network with:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Aetna
  • Oscar
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Optum
  • Cigna
  • AmeriHealth

Before services start, we’ll verify your benefits and let you know your exact copay. Most families pay less than $30 per session (including all costs such as copays, deductibles, and coinsurance).
We currently do not accept Medicaid, CHIP, or other state-based plans.

Get Started — Book Your Free 30-Minute Consultation Today

Appointments available within 48 hours.

Let’s talk about what your child is experiencing and how we can help.