Overview
- A randomized trial assigned 850 adults to 12 weeks of unlimited messaging or weekly video therapy on Talkspace, with non-responders re-randomized at week six.
- Both groups achieved similar reductions in depression symptoms and gains in social functioning over the study period.
- Messaging saw fewer early dropouts and greater scheduling flexibility, while video fostered a slightly stronger therapeutic alliance.
- The study reported no adverse events and excluded people with psychosis or suicidal thoughts, limiting applicability to higher-risk cases.
- Researchers and outside experts say the results support using messaging in stepped-care models and expanding insurance reimbursement.