How effective are mental health apps and online therapy?

Mental wellness apps have soared in popularity. But how do you know if they’re based on research and science? Experts offer their advice.

By Stephanie Kim
How effective are mental health apps and online therapy?
In this Nov. 1, 2018, file photo, Laurel Foster, among teens involved in Stanford University research testing whether smartphones can be used to help detect depression and potential self-harm, holds her phone in San Francisco. Haven Daley, File / AP Photo
How effective are mental health apps and online therapy?
In this Nov. 1, 2018, file photo, Laurel Foster, among teens involved in Stanford University research testing whether smartphones can be used to help detect depression and potential self-harm, holds her phone in San Francisco. Haven Daley, File / AP Photo

How effective are mental health apps and online therapy?

Mental wellness apps have soared in popularity. But how do you know if they’re based on research and science? Experts offer their advice.

By Stephanie Kim
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GUESTS: Stephen Schueller, associate professor of psychological science at UC Irvine; executive director of One Mind PsyberGuide

Dr. John Torous, director of digital psychiatry at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; creator of Mind Apps

Dr. Alex Leow, associate professor in psychiatry and bioengineering at University of Illinois Chicago; lead researcher of BiAffect