SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment are widely recognized electronic health records (EHR) systems. They also serve as great practice management platforms. Their services aid therapists in managing the stress of running their practices. Both platforms also provide tools to help therapists stay connected to their clients.
TherapyAppointment delivers a simple system with efficient features. SimplePractice on the other hand offers high value features. This article explains how these EHRs differ based on their key features, pricing, and user satisfaction.
Key Features of SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment
SimplePractice
It provides automated appointment reminders and appointment scheduling.
It offers extensive credit card processing, billing, and invoicing tools.
It has a client portal for safe communication and document sharing.
It provides customized note templates.
It incorporates telehealth functionalities.
It helps clients develop goals and track their success.
It provides assessment tools and client intake forms.
TherapyAppointment
It enables simple access for booking appointments.
It offers electronic signatures.
It ensures HIPAA Compliant data security.
It offers customizable templates for clinical notes.
It includes secure messaging for client communication.
It provides customizable note taking features.
Key Differences Between SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment
The following are some of the main differences between TherapyAppointment and SimplePractice:
TherapyAppointment is more affordable than SimplePractice. It is also better suited for new or smaller practices.
SimplePractice generally offers more in-depth customization in documentation than TherapyAppointment.
TherapyAppointment’s integrated telehealth platform is more reliable than SimplePractice’s.
Comparative Analysis of SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment
SimplePractice has an inbuilt telehealth capacity. This telehealth option is important to therapists who conduct virtual therapy sessions. With this platform, mental health practitioners can carry out therapy sessions successfully and might not require a third-party platform. It facilitates the scheduling, running, and recording of online sessions. This makes it simpler for mental health practitioners to treat their online clients.
TherapyAppointment also provides a simple built-in telehealthy feature that is easy to use. Like SimplePractice, TherapyAppointment offers secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing for remote therapy sessions. They both follow the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance standards. The security and privacy of the clients’ data are well-secured and protected. This makes mental health professionals focus on providing quality treatment to their clients.
The platforms offer comprehensive tools that help therapists automate daily tasks. They also ensure the growth of their private practices. These include reminders, claims, a secure client portal, and automatic payment processing.
SimplePractice has a strong EHR system. It has accessible client records, secure document storage, and customizable progress note templates. It enables therapists to develop comprehensive treatment plans and progress reports.
TherapyAppointment offers a robust electronic health record system. It includes editable templates for treatment plans and progress notes. It provides secure document storage to assist therapists in keeping accurate records.
For solo practitioners, SimplePractice offers a range of price choices. It ranges from $14 to $99 each month. Your choice of extra features may have an impact on the total cost. Even though SimplePractice has a lot of excellent features, they are more expensive. Selecting extra features could make an EHR system cost more than you anticipated.
TherapyAppointment's pricing structure establishes a monthly subscription cost. It has a starter plan of $10 for solo practitioners. Although, the $59 monthly fee per provider includes more features and you can have more sessions. Pricing for group practices is tier-based on the number of users. For new customers, TherapyAppointment provides a 30-day free trial. This enables you to check out the capabilities of the platform before deciding to subscribe.
Advantages of SimplePractice
Excellent customer service.
Automate documentation and session analytics with Mentalyc
From intake to progress and treatment planning — automated, and aligned with your clinical style.
- HIPAA, PHIPA & SOC2 Compliant
- SOAP, DAP, BIRP, EMDR & more formats
- SMART treatment plans with goals & tracking
- Alliance insights
Mobile app for practitioners and clients.
Easy to use interface.
It offers ePrescribe.
Great calendar sync option.
Attractive and modern user interface.
It enables therapists build and host websites.
It provides tool options such as easy appointment booking, and billing.
It helps to improve your productivity.
It offers comprehensive billing and invoicing features for financial management.
It is easy to keep track of progress notes, appointment history, and client billing.
Disadvantages of SimplePractice
It is more expensive for smaller practices or solo practitioners.
There are extra fees for the telehealth feature.
Larger practices might not find enough customization options in the system.
It is not very user-oriented when submitting documents.
The mobile app has limits in functionality compared to the desktop version.
There are slow updates to the calendar sync.
Appointment reminder customization is insufficient.
Advantages of TherapyAppointment
TherapyAppointment has transparent pricing and is affordable, with no hidden fees.
The software system is rich and reliable.
It is user friendly and has a modern design
Online forms are convenient to use.
It automates insurance claims with ease.
It provides great client support.
Appointment scheduling is easy to set up.
It has automated reminders and client intake.
It ensures that the clients' data are confidential and secured.
It offers comprehensive support resources
It provides a client portal tool which is a self-service feature.
It improves client engagement through its amazing telehealth service.
It reduces the administrative burden on mental health professionals.
Disadvantages of TherapyAppointment
TherapyAppointment has difficulty integrating with group providers like SimplePractice or other EHR software.
It’s free trial requires your credit card.
There is no ePrescribe option.
It provides fewer options for customized therapy notes and templates.
The telehealth feature comes with an additional fee.
It does not have a Mobile App
These limitations can affect you depending on the needs and goals of your practice. In a case where you require a more specialized note-taking service, consider the best note-taking apps for therapists.
Which Platform Is Best for You?
SimplePractice is an excellent choice if you can pay for its premium subscription. It can help you expand your private practice. TherapyAppointment is preferable if you need basic functionality and a more affordable service.
If you are considering an EHR platform that is right for you, it is important to consider the following questions:
Which of these platforms features are vital for my practice?
What is my budget?
What are the advanced features I’d like to integrate?
Who are my target clients?
Will I conduct my therapy sessions In-person or remotely?
Do I need to build a website?
How many additional staff do I have in my practice?
Will I accept or bill insurance in my practice?
Table 1: Features Comparisons for SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment
| Features | SimplePractice | TherapyAppointment |
| Free trial | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free version | ❎ | ❎ |
| Subscription based | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cardless trial | ✅ | ❎ |
| ePrescribe | ✅ | ❎ |
| Calendar Management | ✅ | ✅ |
| Appointment Scheduling | ✅ | ✅ |
| Phone App | ✅ | ❎ |
| Self payment | ✅ | ✅ |
| Message Notifications | ✅ | ✅ |
| Integrating Quickbooks | ✅ | ❎ |
| Medical Billing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Client Portal | ✅ | ✅ |
| Customizable Templates | ✅ | ✅ |
| Customizable Forms | ✅ | ✅ |
| Electronic Signature | ✅ | ✅ |
| Electronic Payments | ✅ | ✅ |
| Electronic Health Record (EHR) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Billing history | ✅ | ✅ |
| Therapy Notes | ✅ | ✅ |
| Treatment planning | ✅ | ✅ |
| Notes Management | ✅ | ✅ |
| Group Notes | ✅ | ✅ |
| HIPAA Compliant | ✅ | ✅ |
| Progress Notes | ✅ | ✅ |
| Progress Reports | ✅ | ✅ |
| Video Conferencing | ✅ | ✅ |
Conclusion
SimplePractice and TherapyAppointment provide excellent features for managing a private therapist practice. The above information has equipped you with knowledge about each platform and their services. You can assess them to determine which one best suits your practice. These EHR feature checklists can also help you make a decision that will improve your practice. It should simplify your work process and reduce your administrative workload.
It is vital to note the key offerings of each EHR provider. TherapyAppointment is easier to use with affordable pricing services. It is great to use if you’re just starting out or you need its simplicity and essential functions. But, SimplePractice provides more advanced features and customization options. It is an ideal choice for professionals in large or group practices who can afford the extra fees. Your choice depends on your preference and practice needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Therapy Appointment Work on Mac Computers / iPads/ Pcs?
Yes, you can use TherapyAppointment with Macs, PCs, iPads, and smartphones. It has a “responsive design” feature. It knows the kind of device you are using and adjusts itself based on your device’s screen.
How Secure is Simple Practice?
SimplePractice follows the strict regulations of HIPAA and is also HITRUST certified. This makes it a top, secured software in the field of healthcare.
Which Platform Is Better for Billing and Payment Processing?
Both Therapy Appointment and SimplePractice offer integrated billing and payment processing. SimplePractice offers more advanced billing features. They include customizable invoices and automated payment reminders. TherapyAppointment provides a straightforward billing system that’s easy to manage.
Which Platform Integrates Better With Third-Party Tools?
SimplePractice integrates with third-party tools, including Google Calendar, Zoom, Stripe, and others. It offers more flexibility for practitioners who need different integrations. TherapyAppointment has fewer integrations but covers essential needs like billing and calendar management.
Which EHR Provider is Better For Large Group Practices?
SimplePractice is often preferred by larger group practices. It has more advanced group management features. It includes team collaboration tools and the ability to assign roles to members. TherapyAppointment is ideal for solo practitioners and smaller practices.
Therapists say
“It immediately changed my quality of life, personally and professionally. I went from 3–4 hours a week of notes to 1 hour at most … that alone is invaluable personally and professionally.”
“Do yourself a favor, make your life easier. Use the tools that are readily available … I found Mentalyc to be one of the best tools that I’ve ever used.”
“For those who have hesitations … It is a lifesaver. It will change your life and you have more time to be present with your patients.”
