SimplePractice Review

SimplePractice is a cloud-based, HIPAA-compliant EHR and practice management solution designed to streamline administrative tasks, allowing practitioners to focus on client care. Launched in 2013, it has evolved from a solo practitioner tool into a comprehensive platform suitable for both individual and group practices. Its feature set includes scheduling, billing, documentation, telehealth, client portals, and more, all accessible via a clean, intuitive interface. The platform’s mission is to simplify practice management by automating repetitive tasks and providing a seamless experience for both clinicians and clients.

SimplePractice stands out for its all-in-one approach, integrating tools that cover nearly every aspect of running a therapy practice. It’s particularly praised for its client portal, which enhances the client experience by allowing online appointment requests, paperless intakes, and secure communication. With a 4.6-star rating from over 2,600 reviews across platforms like GetApp and Capterra, it’s a top choice for mental health professionals.

Key Features of SimplePractice

1. Scheduling and Calendar Management

The scheduling function is a cornerstone of SimplePractice, presented in a familiar calendar format with day, week, and month views. Practitioners can color-code appointments based on status, manage waitlists, and sync with Google Calendar. Clients can request appointments through the client portal, which integrates with the practitioner’s availability, reducing back-and-forth communication. Automated appointment reminders (via SMS, email, or voice) are included at no extra cost, helping to minimize no-shows. Users particularly appreciate the scheduling widget, which can be embedded on a practice’s website for seamless online booking.

2. Client Portal

The client portal is one of SimplePractice’s standout features, offering a sophisticated, user-friendly interface for clients to manage their interactions with the practice. Clients can complete intake forms, sign consents, submit insurance information, and pay bills online. The portal’s ability to extract insurance details from uploaded card photos significantly reduces manual data entry. This feature streamlines onboarding, with tools like the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments integrated for clinical use. Clients frequently praise the portal’s ease of use, often noting it enhances their perception of a modern, paperless practice.

3. Billing and Insurance Management

SimplePractice simplifies billing with tools for creating invoices, processing payments, and filing insurance claims. The platform supports AutoPay for automatic credit card payments, ensuring timely collections. It offers 10 free claim submissions monthly on the Essential plan and 35 on the Plus plan, with additional claims at $0.05 each. Users can generate superbills and export billing data for accounting purposes. While solo practitioners find the billing system intuitive, some group practices report challenges with high-volume claims, occasionally requiring additional billing support.

4. Documentation and Note-Taking

Documentation in SimplePractice is robust, with a library of customizable templates for progress notes, intake forms, and treatment plans. The integration of Wiley Treatment Planners (free on the Plus plan) allows clinicians to develop diagnosis-specific plans efficiently. Templates auto-populate with client data, saving time while maintaining personalization. However, some users note that creating custom templates can be cumbersome, and the evaluation templates may lack the depth needed for complex cases.

5. Telehealth

SimplePractice’s HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform is seamlessly integrated, allowing practitioners to schedule and conduct virtual sessions within the system. Users report high-quality audio and video, with minimal lag even in challenging conditions. The telehealth feature is particularly valuable for practitioners transitioning to virtual care, though some note it lacks advanced features compared to standalone telehealth platforms.

6. Website Builder

Included in all pricing plans, SimplePractice’s website builder enables therapists to create a professional, HIPAA-compliant website. It’s designed for simplicity, with structured layouts and minimal customization, making it ideal for practitioners who need a quick, functional site. The builder integrates with the EHR for scheduling and client management, earning a 4.5-star rating for its ease of use. However, those seeking advanced SEO or marketing features may find it limiting compared to alternatives like Wix or Brighter Vision.

7. Mobile App

The SimplePractice mobile app (available on iOS and Android) allows practitioners to manage their practice on the go. Features include scheduling, billing, note-taking, and telehealth, all accessible from a smartphone or tablet. The app’s clean design mirrors the desktop experience, ensuring consistency. Users appreciate the flexibility, especially part-time practitioners who value remote access.

8. HIPAA Compliance and Security

SimplePractice prioritizes security, offering HIPAA-compliant storage, messaging, and telehealth. The platform employs robust encryption and secure servers, with users praising the peace of mind it provides. Security is a top priority, with regular updates to maintain compliance.

Pricing

SimplePractice offers three main pricing tiers, with costs ranging from $49 to $99 per month as of 2025. All plans include a 30-day free trial with no credit card required, allowing users to test the full feature set. Here’s a breakdown:

• Starter Plan ($49/month): Best for new practices, includes basic EHR features, scheduling, billing, and the client portal. Insurance claim creation is available, but submissions are manual.
• Essential Plan ($69/month): Includes all Starter features, plus 10 free claim submissions monthly and advanced automation tools.
• Plus Plan ($99/month): The most comprehensive, with 35 free claim submissions, Wiley Treatment Planners, and enhanced group practice features.

Additional clinicians cost $59/month, and practice managers are $39/month, while billers, schedulers, and supervisors are free. Some users, particularly group practices, find the pricing steep, especially with add-ons like text messaging fees. Solo practitioners, however, often view the cost as reasonable for the value provided. For the latest pricing details, visit simplepractice.com/pricing.

Pros of SimplePractice

1. User-Friendly Interface: The clean, intuitive design is accessible even for those with minimal tech experience. Multiple navigation paths enhance workflow efficiency.
2. Comprehensive Client Portal: Streamlines onboarding and client communication, reducing administrative burden and enhancing client satisfaction.
3. Robust Automation: Features like appointment reminders, AutoPay, and template auto-population save time and reduce errors.
4. HIPAA Compliance: Strong security measures ensure data protection, a critical factor for mental health professionals.
5. Integrated Telehealth: High-quality, easy-to-use telehealth supports virtual care without needing external platforms.
6. Free Trial: The 30-day trial allows thorough testing of all features, aiding informed decision-making.

Cons of SimplePractice

1. Customer Service Challenges: While many users praise responsiveness, others report difficulties reaching live support, with email responses sometimes delayed.
2. Cost for Group Practices: Pricing can escalate for larger practices, with additional clinician fees and claim submission costs adding up.
3. Limited Customization: Creating custom forms and templates can be time-consuming, and the website builder lacks advanced SEO features.
4. Learning Curve: Some users find the initial setup complex, particularly for billing and insurance features.
5. No E-Prescribing: The platform doesn’t support e-prescriptions, a drawback for psychiatrists or medication-focused practitioners.

User Feedback and Ratings

SimplePractice enjoys strong user approval, with a 4.6-star rating from 2,600+ reviews on GetApp and Capterra, and a 4.2-star rating on Trustpilot, where 60% of reviews are 5-star. Users frequently highlight the platform’s ease of use, time-saving automation, and client portal. Solo practitioners appreciate its affordability and simplicity, while group practices value its scalability. However, negative reviews often cite customer service issues, high costs for larger practices, and occasional billing complexities.

On Reddit, a user starting a small practice praised the scheduling widget and intuitive design but noted the telehealth feature’s limitations and rising processing fees. Another user lauded the platform’s billing simplification but highlighted the lack of e-prescribing for psychiatric needs. These sentiments align with broader reviews, balancing praise for functionality with critiques of specific shortcomings.

Comparison with Alternatives

SimplePractice competes with platforms like TherapyNotes, Jane App, and Practice. Here’s a brief comparison:

• TherapyNotes: Offers robust documentation and billing but lacks a website builder and has a steeper learning curve. It’s slightly cheaper, starting at $40/month.
• Jane App: Excels in telehealth and group practice features but is less focused on mental health-specific tools. Pricing starts at $54/month.
• Practice: A SaaS platform for coaches and consultants, less suited for HIPAA-compliant mental health practices but praised for client management.

SimplePractice’s strength lies in its mental health focus, comprehensive client portal, and integrated website builder, making it ideal for therapists prioritizing ease of use and client experience.

Who Is SimplePractice Best For?

SimplePractice is best suited for:

• Solo Practitioners: Its affordability, intuitive interface, and all-in-one features make it ideal for therapists managing small practices.
• New Practices: The free trial and client portal streamline setup and onboarding, earning it awards for best EHR for new practices.
• Insurance-Billing Practices: Robust billing tools and claim submission features support practices that bill insurance.
• Telehealth-Focused Therapists: Integrated, high-quality telehealth suits virtual or hybrid practices.

It may be less ideal for:

• Large Group Practices: High costs and billing complexities can be prohibitive.
• Psychiatrists: The lack of e-prescribing limits its utility for medication management.
• Tech-Savvy Users Seeking Customization: Limited template and website customization may frustrate those wanting tailored solutions.

Conclusion

SimplePractice is a top-tier EHR and practice management solution that lives up to its reputation as a leading platform for mental health professionals. Its intuitive design, comprehensive client portal, and robust automation tools make it a standout choice for solo practitioners and small to medium-sized practices. The integrated telehealth, HIPAA compliance, and website builder further enhance its value, while the 30-day free trial allows risk-free exploration. However, challenges like customer service responsiveness, costs for group practices, and limited customization warrant consideration.

For therapists seeking a balance of functionality, ease of use, and client-focused features, SimplePractice is a worthy investment. Those with complex billing needs or specific customization requirements may need to explore alternatives. To learn more or start a free trial, visit simplepractice.com.