Talkspace Expands Virtual Therapy Access to Arizona’s 1 Million+ Medicare Members Amid Growing Demand

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Talkspace, a leading online behavioral health care company, announced today that its virtual therapy services are now available to more than one million Medicare members¹ in Arizona. This expansion is part of Talkspace’s broader nationwide rollout of tele-mental health services to Medicare beneficiaries– ensuring high-quality, affordable care is as convenient and accessible as possible for Americans 65 and older.

Arizona is experiencing a critical, unmet need for mental health professionals. Among adults in Arizona who reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorders, 30.2% reported recently needing counseling or therapy, but not receiving it. Mental health diagnoses among older adults have skyrocketed 57% since 2019, with seniors increasingly struggling with conditions like anxiety and depression. However, finding affordable, convenient mental health care providers remains a significant barrier to treatment. According to a study from the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Inspector General, fewer than half of mental health providers accept traditional Medicare, and many seniors in Arizona face challenges such as mobility issues, transportation costs, and limited local providers, leaving them without critical mental health support. In a state where 18% of the population is 65 or older, this is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention.

“Too many seniors are struggling in silence because they can’t access the mental health care they need,” said Phoenix-based Erin Boyd, Chief Growth Officer of Talkspace. “At Talkspace, we are committed to bridging this gap by providing Arizona’s Medicare members with a seamless, affordable, and virtual therapy solution. By accepting Medicare, we’re ensuring that seniors can easily connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of their own homes.”

To care for this population, Talkspace has expanded its network of Arizona-based licensed providers who are trained to address issues such as anxiety, grief, and social isolation–common among older adults.

“Whether you have experienced the loss of a spouse or you are feeling anxious about your health or finances, you do not have to face it alone,” said Laura Magnuson, VP of Clinical Engagement at Talkspace. “In fact, it is now easier and more convenient than ever to get help, and just as vital to your overall health.”

This expansion directly supports Talkspace’s mission to make high-quality mental health care more accessible and to ensure that older adults – both in Arizona and nationwide – can get the care they need. Through Talkspace’s secure, encrypted platform, members are matched with state-licensed therapists within a matter of days, and receive care via live video sessions, ensuring that they get personalized and consistent support from a dedicated professional.

For more information and to check availability, visit talkspace.com/Medicare.

About Talkspace

Talkspace (NASDAQ: TALK) is a leading virtual behavioral healthcare provider committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives through access to high-quality mental healthcare. At Talkspace, we believe that mental healthcare is core to overall health and should be available to everyone.

Talkspace pioneered the ability to text with a licensed therapist from anywhere and now offers a comprehensive suite of mental health services, including therapy for individuals, teens, and couples, as well as psychiatric treatment and medication management (18+). With Talkspace’s core therapy offerings, members are matched with one of thousands of licensed therapists within days and can engage in live video, audio, or chat sessions, and/or unlimited asynchronous text messaging sessions.

All care offered at Talkspace is delivered through an easy-to-use, fully-encrypted web and mobile platform that meets HIPAA, federal, and state regulatory requirements. More than 179 million Americans have access to Talkspace through their health insurance plans, employee assistance programs, our partnerships with leading healthcare companies, or as a free benefit through their employer, school, or government agency.

For more information, visit www.talkspace.com.

^1All Traditional Medicare beneficiaries and select Medicare Advantage plans