What to expect from the housing market in 2022: Another sellers' market

What to expect from the housing market in 2022: Another sellers' market

This story is part of The Year Ahead, CNET's look at how the world will continue to evolve starting in 2022 and beyond.

The last 22 months have been some of the wildest in real estate history, as the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the speed and intensity of recent trends. Home prices surged to record-breaking highs. Interest rates dropped to historic lows. And, amongst it all, the new era of online home buying and selling took further root. On top of that, just about every contemporary macro-economic trend -- from inflation to supply chain woes to labor shortages -- made an appearance in the 2021 housing market, increasing the advantages of existing homeowners, daunting prospective homebuyers and, ultimately, further widening wealth inequality in the US.

Though no one can predict what the next year will bring, we've asked some industry experts to help us read the tea leaves. Perhaps most significantly, home prices are expected to continue to rise, though at a slower rate than last year. As such, the 2022 housing market will present challenges for new buyers looking to get a foothold. For those looking to sell, new technologies like iBuying will continue to streamline and simplify real estate transactions. And existing homeowners will likely have another year to capitalize on rising property values through refinancing -- if they haven't already. 

Experts also predict an extension of two major 2021 trends: low housing inventory and supply chain issues, both of which will continue to hamstring construction and renovations. Meanwhile, there are two new spectres on the scene: inflation and rising interest rates. "For a homebuyer, 2022 is going to require patience and strategy," said Robert Dietz, chief economist the National Association of Home Builders.

"If you think you're going to wait on the sidelines for the market to cool off, that usually doesn't work," cautions Karan Kaul, senior research associate at the Urban Institute. "Timing" the market is a tricky enterprise, and prices seem unlikely to decrease meaningfully any time soon. 

With the caveat that political and virological developments can wreak havoc on this unpredictable corner of the economy, here are some of the major factors experts see influencing the housing market in 2022. 

Still smoking: Home prices continue to rise

If you already own a home, you're more than likely to be in a fortunate position. Skyrocketing home values have continued to increase equity for homeowners in many US regions throughout the pandemic, according to Dietz. 

Combined with historically low interest rates, a record-breaking number of homeowners were able to tap into their home equity in 2020. As property values surged during the first year of the pandemic, cash-out refinancing levels were at their highest since the 2007 financial crisis.

Of course, this creates a much more difficult situation for prospective homebuyers. And that's unlikely to change much in 2022. Although prices are expected to increase at a lower rate next year, they are expected to continue to rise. And that -- in addition to higher interest rates -- will create considerable headwinds for buyers throughout 2022. 

Clogged supply chains cause more delays

Supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic continue to delay shipments which impedes new construction. That is only making the market that much more competitive along with the rising price of existing homes across the US. And the number of people looking to buy is also increasing, thanks in large part to millennials entering the housing market in growing numbers.

"We've seen so much interest in buying homes over the past year and a half, it's a bit difficult to project when that is going to lose some steam," according to Robert Heck, vice president of mortgage at Morty, a mortgage-tech start-up. But it's clear there are still plenty of buyers trying to enter the market despite prices continuing to creep up.

"Despite the fact that builder confidence is pretty strong right now, in the short run there is a lack of building materials, higher cost of building materials like lumber, appliances, windows and doors, and even garage doors," said Dietz. And further complicating the picture is a sustained labor shortage, particularly for skilled construction workers.

Delivery delays can extend build time by as much as four to eight weeks for a typical single family home. And if there aren't enough contractors on hand to use those materials once they show up, it's clear that demand will continue to outweigh supply for some time to come.

Macro headwinds: Interest rates and inflation 

Prospective homebuyers will want to keep their eyes on some wonky stuff in 2022. The Federal Reserve announced that it will wind down bond purchasing and look to raise interest rates next year. And higher interest rates will only make things more difficult for those looking to buy, as they raise both the average monthly payment and the total lifetime cost of a mortgage. 

 And don't forget about inflation! That will almost certainly increase both the cost of home building materials and skilled labor. In fact, the National Association of Realtors' anticipates that annual median home prices will increase by 5.7% in 2022.

And yet it's not all doom and gloom. Mortgage interest remains are still quite low. And there are pockets of affordability in many regions of the US, creating a key opportunity for those fortunate enough to be able to work remotely. 

"Mortgage rates are still at historical lows, and it's been harder than ever to predict where things are going thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," said Heck.

Tech innovations reshape home buying

Digital lending has already impacted the way Americans shop for homes. The rapid rise of online real estate brokerages and mortgage marketplaces has made it easier than ever to browse properties and finance a home. That's unlikely to change: Almost 40% of millennials said they would feel comfortable buying a home online in a recent Zillow study. 

"Consumers like the ability to bid remotely, and to really take a look at properties and neighborhoods online," said Miriam Moore, division president of default services at ServiceLink, a mortgage transactional services provider. This will likely impact both sides of transactions, as sellers learn to adapt their home's curb appeal to someone looking at it on their phone and buyers (and agents and investors) look for ways to arbitrage the market.

An evolving challenge: Climate change

Perhaps the biggest unknown in real estate is how soon climate change will become the dominant factor. According to experts across the industry, every part of the homebuying process will eventually be affected by changing weather patterns, encroaching shorelines, shifting flood zones and an increasingly complicated insurance marketplace. Case in point: Moore, who is in the mortgage business, has seen an increase in inspections due to weather and fire over the last year.

New construction may prove to be both more energy efficient and more durable in the face of extreme weather. "People want to live in energy efficient homes, but they can only buy them if they exist," said Kaul, at The Urban Institute.

The stakes couldn't be higher. Buying a house remains one of the most reliable ways to build wealth and has long been a key milestone for Americans in establishing long-term financial security. And although interest rates remain as low as ever, given all of the other trends impacting the real estate market in 2022, the balance of power is likely to remain in the hands of sellers.

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Talkspace Online Therapy Review: Benefits, Cost and Who Should Consider It

Talkspace Online Therapy Review: Benefits, Cost and Who Should Consider It

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for treatment of anxiety and depression has increased exponentially. In a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, 96% of psychologists polled reported that they were treating patients remotely. The numbers broke down to 64% treating all patients remotely and 32% using a hybrid treatment plan, treating some patients in person and others remotely. 

Online therapy is a great way to take care of your mental health if time, distance or life in general make it difficult to see a therapist in person. Talkspace is an online therapy platform that matches you with a licensed counselor in your state. You can schedule your sessions and meet with your therapist from the comfort of your home.

For this review I considered a number of factors including the services Talkspace offers, its special features, benefits, pricing and therapist qualifications. 

What is Talkspace?

Oren and Roni Frank co-founded Talkspace in 2012. The platform's goal is to provide access to mental health care to those who otherwise do not have access to quality mental health services. 

Through Talkspace, you can connect with therapists with backgrounds and expertise that align best with your needs. These mental health care professionals offer virtual psychology and psychiatry support to individuals, couples and teens through its website and app.  

The platform also offers services for a wide range of mental health needs like anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, substance abuse, parenting, eating disorders, chronic illness and hardships that the LGBTQ community often faces. 

What makes Talkspace shine is that licensed professionals can prescribe medications through its psychiatric services. A service that its counterparts, such as BetterHelp, have yet to offer. 

Read more: Tips to Find the Right Therapist For You

Five/Getty

How does Talkspace work?

Talkspace's sign-up process is straightforward. You can sign up through its website or app. Here's what subscribing to Talkspace looks like:

1. Answer the assessment: When you click the button to get started, you'll be prompted to answer a few questions about the type of therapy you are looking for, your demographics, lifestyle, physical health and preferences. You'll also create your user account.

2. Choose your plan: Next, you can select which plan you'd like to buy. You can choose from the Messaging therapy plan, Live Plan or the Live plus messaging Plan.

3. Get matched: At this stage, Talkspace will suggest three therapists with experience that match your needs. Here, you can choose which one you'd like to work with. You can expect to get matched within 48 hours of signing up.

4. Start therapy: Once you choose your preferred therapist, they will contact you. Depending on the plan you select, you can schedule weekly or monthly live sessions with your counselor.

Westend6/Getty

How much does Talkspace cost?

We mentioned that there are three plans available through Talkspace; let's compare pricing for each and what they offer.

Messaging therapy: This plan includes unlimited messaging therapy. You can send text, audio and video messages to your therapist any day, any time. It guarantees daily responses five days a week. You'll pay $69 a week for this plan.

Live therapy: This plan includes four 45-minute live sessions a month. The price for this plan is $99 a week.

Live plus messaging therapy: Get the best of both worlds with live and messaging therapy. It offers unlimited text, audio and video messaging plus four 45-minute live sessions a month. This plan will set you back $129 a week.

You can choose to pay any of these plans monthly, every three months (will save you 10%) or every six months (will save you 20%).

Read more: Best Online Therapy Services 

Does Talkspace take insurance?

In the words of Michael Phelps, "I have really good news for 40 million Americans". In 2020, Talkspace expanded accessible mental health care coverage for millions of Americans via insurance coverage. Major insurance companies like Cigna, Optum, Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield and Humana cover mental health services on Talkspace.

To determine if your insurance policy covers Talkspace, you can check your insurance coverage eligibility through your insurer or on Talkspace's website. 

Does Talkspace offer financial aid?

At the time of writing, I couldn't find any information about financial aid on Talkspace. However, if you have insurance, you might have coverage and may only need to pay a deductible or copay. 

I also found an offer code in the Talkspace app for $100 off your first month with the code SPACE.

Talkspace communication methods

Once you're matched with your therapist, you'll have access to a private room where you can contact them. You can access this room via Talkspace's website or on the app. You can also select your preferred method of communication. 

Video messaging

You can communicate with your counselor through video messages, but it's important to note live video sessions are only available on the Premium and Ultimate plans. Depending on your plan, you can schedule a weekly or monthly live video session with your therapist. If you choose the Plus plan, you can still send video messages to your therapist; it just won't be in real-time.

Voice Message

Much like sending a voice message to a friend through WhatsApp, you can send audio messages to your therapist at any time of day, seven days a week. Even though you can contact your therapist at any time, that doesn't mean they'll respond immediately or every day. You can expect therapists to reply five days a week.

Westend61/Getty

Text message

If you are most comfortable reaching out via text, this is the best option for you. Just enter the chat room and reach out to your therapist the same way you would reach out to a friend. You can send unlimited text messages at any time of day.

Talkspace treatment methods

When it comes to therapy, there are many approaches you can take. The best one for you will depend on your needs and goals. You can talk to your counselor to see which options are available. 

The most common types of treatments found on Talkspace include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Emotion-focused therapy 
• Dialectical behavioral therapy 
  
• Talk therapy
  
• Somatic therapy
  
• Humanistic therapy
  
• Mentalization therapy
  
• Exposure therapy
  
• Psychodynamic therapy
  
• Grief counseling
  

Atstock Production/Getty

Talkspace features

Besides unlimited texting and video sessions with your therapist, Talkspace offers some cool features to help you stay on track with your mental health journey.

Progress tracker: Talkspace offers a great way to visualize your progress through its therapy progress tracker. As you start to foster a relationship with your counselor, you can click on "client journey" in the app to view your timeline. You can set goals with your therapist and see how well you are doing.

Mental health tools and resources: If you want to put what you've learned to practice, check out Talkspace's self-help exercises. It offers many resources to help you navigate different situations including stress, anxiety and negative thought patterns. You can also find other useful tools such as breathing exercises for when you're feeling stressed. Most of the exercises are from 1 to 15 minutes long, making them convenient for when you're short on time.

These resources are available to you at any time. You can find them on your dashboard under Therapy Tools. 

Live chat: For those who have plans that include live chat, you can schedule them in advance through your calendar. The live feature allows you to chat in real-time with your therapist through your preferred communication method: text, audio or video. These live sessions have a duration of 30 minutes.

Benefits of Talkspace

Besides providing access to mental health professionals, some other things make Talkspace stand out:

• Access to psychiatric care
  
• If working with a psychiatrist, they can prescribe and manage medication
  
• A vast network of licensed therapists
  
• Many large health insurers cover services offered on Talkspace
  
• Ability to message your therapist at any time
  
• The flexibility of choosing weekly or monthly live sessions
  
• Talkspace will match you with three therapists, and you can choose which one you'd like to work with
  
• If you're unhappy with your therapist, you can change them at any time at no extra cost
  

Disadvantages of Talkspace

There's a lot to like about Talkspace, but there are a few things that you should consider before deciding if it's the right fit for you:

• Medicare and Medicaid don't cover the cost of therapy on Talkspace
  
• No therapy options for children ages 12 and younger
  
• Negative customer reviews about billing and customer service
  
• Similar to other online therapy platforms, therapists on Talkspace can't diagnose mental health disorders
  

Talkspace therapist qualifications

Talkspace therapists are highly skilled and qualified. According to the website, to become a member of the clinical network, all mental health professionals must possess an LCSW, LMFT, LPCC or Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and must be licensed in the state they practice.

Talkspace verifies all therapists' credentials and runs a background check upon hire. 

Talkspace's privacy policy

When you sign up with Talkspace, you share a lot of personal data, including credit card information, legal name and medical records. You might be wondering, is my information safe?

According to the website, Talkspace may collect, retain, analyze and use any personal information you provide. The company provides a lot of insight into how your information may be used. Although this might sound scary, it's not uncommon for platforms to store and use your data for marketing purposes and to tailor your services.

What's most important is that the information shared with your therapist is safe. When you message your therapist, all of the information is encrypted -- meaning that your messages are only readable to you and your therapist.

To ensure that your medical information remains private, Talkspace is compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. 

GCShutter/Getty

Talkspace customer reviews

On paper, Talkspace has a lot to offer -- convenient scheduling, online resources and tools and access to qualified therapists. But when it comes to customer reviews, the company falls short in terms of good customer experience. Talkspace holds a 1.3 out of 5 star review on Trustpilot, an independent review platform where consumers can review services and products. 

Most clients have complaints about unauthorized charges, billing issues, subpar customer services and difficulty navigating the app. Other reviewers note that they've had good experiences with therapists, but not with Talkspace as a company.

Is Talkspace right for you?

If you're looking to start taking care of your mental health or need help facing difficult life changes, Talkspace may be a good online therapy option. It offers flexible scheduling and access to a diverse network of licensed therapists. It's also one of the few online therapy platforms that offer psychiatric services and medication prescriptions. 

However, good experiences with Talkspace may be a hit or miss. It does not boast great reviews amongst its customers. Since the platform is subscription-based, you can try it out to see if you are matched with a therapist that aligns with your needs, and if you don't like them, you can either request a change or cancel your membership.

If you have thoughts about hurting yourself, Talkspace is not the appropriate channel. If you have an emergency or are in a life-threatening situation, please contact your local police, the nearest emergency room or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifetime at 1-800-273-8255.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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Tesla Solar Panels Review: Cheaper Than Other National Players

Tesla Solar Panels Review: Cheaper Than Other National Players

Like

• Low prices and a price match guarantee
• Quality equipment
• Lower profile panels

Don't Like

• Anecdotally, customer service can be poor
• Four set sizes limits flexibility
• Fewer equipment options

More and more homeowners are turning to rooftop solar panels as a way to save money or address climate change. But solar panels represent a huge financial investment. While there are dozens of solar panel providers and installers around the country, it's worth looking at the major players.

Although most people likely know Tesla as an electric car company, it took a major step into the solar business with its 2016 purchase of the solar company SolarCity, which was founded by cousins of Tesla CEO Elon Musk. It now installs solar panels and its unique Solar Roof in at least parts of 25 states and promises to match the prices of its competitors.

Tesla is one of the largest solar installers in the United States (though it's no longer one of the three largest, Wood Mackenzie reported). Tesla gave ground to companies with more aggressive sales tactics, opting for an online-only sales method that feels less pushy. It backs its already low prices with a price match guarantee.

Tesla offers low-profile solar panels and are likely cheaper than those from other national companies.

Tesla

Those guaranteed low prices, matched with quality panels, batteries and inverters means Tesla likely offers more solar power for less money than other national players. Tesla customers might lose some of that value in customer service. While customer satisfaction ratings don't exist for the still relatively new solar industry, anecdotal evidence suggestsTesla may be skimpingon customer service after purchase.

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Advertiser Disclosure : CNET's corporate partner, SaveOnEnergy, can help you find the right energy fit for your home. The SaveOnEnergy marketplace helps you search, compare, sign up and save on the right energy fit for your home — all for free. If you're interested in solar, answer a few questions to get an exact price quote from our solar advisors.  

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Tesla is a good option for someone who wants the most solar for the least amount of money, even if it means some challenges elsewhere. While we weren't able to test a Tesla solar installation or the customer's experience, if you value customer service you're likely to have a better experience with a different provider. Note also that the US Security and Exchange Commission is investigating a whistleblower claim that Tesla misled customers and regulators when fixing fire hazards in its solar panel systems. More on that below.

It's difficult to compare solar providers, since each rooftop installation is unique. It will perform differently based on everything from the orientation of your roof to nearby tree cover to local weather from one day to the next. Below, I'll give you the essential information about Tesla's solar panels and, where possible, let you know how it stacks up to the competition. I'll stick with Tesla's panels here, and write up the Solar Roof in its own article since it's so unique. 

Read more: Solar Panels vs. Tesla Solar Roof: Biggest Differences Broken Down

What do I get from Tesla solar panels?

Tesla offers four sizes of solar panel installations measured in kilowatts: 4.8, 9.6, 14.4 and 19.2kW. Tesla allows you to package your solar panel purchase with a Powerwall, its well-regarded battery system that can store power for use during surge pricing, outages or after the sun sets.

As you might expect, Tesla boasts about its panels' sleek, low-profile design. To my eye, Tesla's installations are indeed less obtrusive than others. If that's important to you, Tesla has an advantage here.

Unless you're really particular about who manufactures your panels, what's really important is how long they'll last and how well they'll work. Tesla's warranty says your panels are guaranteed to work at 85% capacity after 25 years or it will replace them. That's roughly in line with other major companies, though stronger than some.

Tesla's solar panels have maximum efficiency ratings that range from 19.3% to 20.6%, which compare favorably with other panels (though slightly higher-efficiency panels are available).

Tesla's first foray into solar power was not with panels, but with storage. Its Powerwall battery is still one of the top choices in the industry, to the point that other major solar companies offer the Powerwall with their installations.

Tesla's warranty says your panels are guaranteed to work at 80% capacity for 25 years or it will replace them. 

Tesla, Inc.

Powerwall can hold 14 kilowatt-hours of energy. Tesla says it has the ability to power most appliances, though full use of larger 240-volt appliances like air conditioners and clothes dryers may require more batteries. How long 14 kilowatt-hours lasts depends on how much energy you use, but if you avoid using energy-intensive appliances like washers, dryers or air conditioners, it should last you a couple of days at least. (Keep in mind your solar panels will provide power during the day and possibly recharge your Powerwall, weather permitting.) Powerwall can provide 5 kilowatts of energy continuously or 7 kilowatts for a short peak.

Powerwall's warranty guarantees that the battery will hold at least 70% of its rated capacity after 10 years (or after you've cycled 37.8 megawatt hours through it).

You can install Powerwall batteries indoors and outside of your home. They're roughly 6 inches deep, 2 and a half feet wide and almost 4 feet tall, so they shouldn't be difficult to tuck away somewhere.

The final bit of hardware is the Tesla solar inverter, which converts the direct current electricity your panels generate into alternating current that your house can use. A key metric here is efficiency. Tesla's solar inverter operates at 97.5% or 98% efficiency, according to the company. That puts it near the top end of what's typical. It comes with a 12.5-year warranty.

When everything is up and running, you can monitor it all from the slick-looking app Tesla offers its users. Via the app you can monitor your energy production and usage. If you have a Powerwall, you can also customize how it operates. You can set how much charge you'd like your Powerwall to reserve for outages, boost its reserve when a storm is approaching, and adjust when you draw energy from your Powerwall based on time of day. The app has a 4-star rating on Google Play and a 3.8 in the App Store.

Are Tesla solar panels a good deal?

Each of Tesla's four offerings compare favorably to national averages for value measured in dollars per watt. According to the consulting firm Wood Mackenzie, the average cost of residential solar in the United States in 2021 was $3.28 per watt.

Tesla's online estimates usually come in well below that amount, even including one Powerwall (or two with the 19.2 kilowatt option). With the suggested storage options and the federal tax credit (30% of the cost if you install through 2031), Tesla's estimates range from $3.18 per watt for the smallest option down to $2.18 per watt for the largest. If you remove the suggested Powerwall batteries, the estimates come to $1.49 per watt for each size. 

These prices are well-below the information available for other national providers, though they may not be the final cost. Your $100 refundable deposit only starts the process. You may need to upgrade your electrical main panel or pay extra for hiding the conduit from your solar panels. Tesla has also suddenly changed solar panel prices in the recent past. 

Tesla will match any installer who quotes you a lower price. If that quote comes within 14 days and is for an array of the same size or larger, Tesla will match the price on a dollar-per-watt basis. All you need to do is to email them the quote and your Tesla reservation number.

Tesla offers fewer choices than some other installers. While others might offer Tesla's Powerwall and another brand or size of battery, Tesla only offers Powerwall. Because your energy needs will vary from others, you might find a better fit for your needs with another company.

In early December, Reuters reported the SEC was investigating a whistleblower's claims that Tesla failed to notify customers of an issue that may have caused some solar arrays installed before 2018 to catch fire. The company launched Project Titan in 2018 to fix the issues, but was not upfront about the reason and did not offer to shut down solar panels to decrease the risks. Several of its solar customers have sued Tesla over fires. The SEC said that the ongoing investigation into Tesla does not mean it has found that Tesla broke the law, Reuters reported. Tesla does not operate a press office to handle requests for comment.

Read more: Your Solar Panels Can Make You Money. Find Out When and How

Does Tesla operate in my state? How do I order?

The only surefire way to know if Tesla's solar panels are available in your area is plug your address into its website and check. I found services in parts of 25 states. That means it's available in a few more states than some of the other major solar companies, like Trinity and Sunrun, though SunPower serves more. (Tesla's service areas for solar panels and solar roofs are not identical. It's possible that solar roofs are available through a certified installer where panels are not.)

The ordering process is fairly straightforward: Enter your address. Enter your average monthly electricity cost. Tesla will then spit out a suggested solar array and number of Powerwall batteries. It also provides an estimated cost and a visual mockup (though not of your house). You can add or remove solar panels and Powerwalls from your order and see how it will affect your estimated electricity usage and storage capabilities.

When you're satisfied with your setup, you can place your order with a refundable deposit of $100.

From here, you'll need to submit your utility bill and take a few pictures of your roof. Tesla uses that information and satellite imagery to design your system. 

While it may seem strange that Tesla doesn't send someone out to view your roof before designing your solar system, the idea here is to reduce costs. (While the price-per-watt cost of residential solar is falling, the price of panels, inverters and other hardware is falling faster than the soft costs like labor and site visits.)

Tesla solar panel services are available in parts of 25 states.

Tesla

At this point, you'll sign a contract and installation moves ahead largely as it would with any installer. Permits are pulled. Tesla sets an install date (which can be rescheduled). A local team puts panels on your roof.

Your installation may be subcontracted to a certified installer. Tesla has in-house installation teams, but more and more it's relying on third-party installers to expand the reach of its tech. In particular, it certifies installers for the Powerwall and its other solar option, Solar Roof.

Although Tesla did not respond to requests for confirmation about its selection process for install teams, this is information you should be provided before you sign your contract, if it's important to you. 

You have a couple of backstops, too. You can cancel your contract within up to three days after you sign. Also, your final payment isn't due until the newly installed system passes an inspection by your local authority. You also have the option to return your system for up to seven days after it's fully functional. Some work won't be refunded or returned (like a Powerwall installation) and Tesla won't make cosmetic repairs to your roof after it removes panels. What is or isn't returnable and refundable will be detailed in your Energy Products Order Agreement, which you should read carefully before signing.

Is Tesla the best choice?

As with any major purchase, you should get multiple quotes from multiple companies. Make sure they answer all your questions and provide the information you need. While Tesla doesn't have a press office, its customer service representatives were easy to get in touch with and seemed knowledgeable. Still, it shouldn't be your only call.

If you're looking for the lowest prices and the backing of a national brand, Tesla is the way to go. Tesla's price match means it will always be competitive in terms of cost. Likewise, the estimates it provides online (which are only estimates) come in well below the national average. If the look of your panels is really important, Tesla's do sit closer to the roof and look sharp. Tesla also offers more information up front about its warranty than some of the other players. Still, make sure you can view it in detail before committing.

The Powerwall is widely considered an industry leader in batteries. It sets the Tesla's equipment apart, but it's also available from some other installers.

There is very little reliable customer service and satisfaction information for the solar industry. Tesla Solar doesn't have a score on with the Better Business Bureau (which companies receive only if they pay a fee), but anecdotally Tesla's customer service for solar is bad enough in cases to make some people regret their purchase. It's customer service call center was responsive and it's not hard to find customer service complaints for any of the major solar installers, but the complaints about Tesla seem louder and more numerous.

It's also important to note that I researched this as deeply as was practical and tried to provide the clearest answers, but I didn't go through the purchasing process, interact with customer service as a buyer or base my assessment of Tesla's performance on any first-hand experience. This category is a hard one to review in the traditional sense, so if possible, you'll want to make sure to get multiple estimates from the different providers in your area before you make a purchase decision.

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5 Best Online Psychiatry Services in 2022

5 Best Online Psychiatry Services in 2022

The lack of in-person access to medical professionals at the start of the pandemic spurred some big advancements for the telehealth industry. These days, patients can receive treatment, attend follow-up appointments and even get a medical prescription all from the comfort of their homes. Patients living anywhere can jump on a quick video or phone call and get the help they need from health care providers from around the world. 

The same is true for mental health professionals, who have seen significant demand for telepsychiatry services. Psychiatrists can now see patients and prescribe medicine online.

Read more: Best Mental Health Apps

What is a psychiatrist? 

Before deciding whether a psychiatrist is right for you, a distinction needs to be made between the terms "psychologist" and "psychiatrist." Psychologists are mental health professionals who provide psychological counseling (such as therapy) but are unable to prescribe medication. On the other hand, psychiatrists specialize in the treatment and diagnosis of mental health disorders and can prescribe medication like antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, stimulates, antipsychotics or mood stabilizers. While both are highly skilled and trained, only psychiatrists are medical doctors.   

If you require medication along with counseling, you may have to see both a psychologist and a psychiatrist. 

Is online psychiatry effective?

Online psychiatrists are best for those with busy schedules. They cut out travel time, uncomfortable waiting rooms and according to research, may even cost less than traditional in-person psychiatry. That sounds all positive, but is it as effective? The same study concluded that "telepsychiatry is a feasible and acceptable approach," especially for young people and vulnerable and underserved communities. 

Read more: Best Online Therapy Services

We've rounded up a curated list of the best online psychiatry platforms based on affordability, accessibility, convenience and level of professionalism. 

Screenshot by Caroline Igo/CNET

Talkspace starts off our list of the best online psychiatry services. The app-based company provides medication management for those with anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. 

Starting services is easy. Take a quick assessment to determine the right psychiatrist for you and answer questions regarding insurance, location and gender preference of a provider. Talkspace will then take up to 48 hours to match you with a licensed psychiatrist or nurse practitioner. 

An initial session is $249, and any follow-up sessions afterward are $125. Bundles for new clients are also available, with an initial session and one follow-up appointment starting at $365, three follow-up appointments at $565 and six follow-up appointments at $849.  

Pros of Talkspace:

• Clients with out-of-network benefits can submit claims and get reimbursed for about 50 to 90% of the cost
• Live video sessions are available through the web or on the app for Android or Apple
• If you don't like your initial provider, you can switch to another at no cost

Cons of Talkspace:

• Talkspace only accepts Premera, Cigna, Gatorcare and Optum insurance plans
• Medication delivery is only available if your insurance allows it
• Individuals under the age of 18 can not use Talkspace's services

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Short for "American well," Amwell is a telehealth service based out of Boston, MA. The nationwide company prescribes medication for those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, cognitive disorder, depression, eating disorders, insomnia, OCD and PTSD. 

One of the best parts of Amwell is its ability to collaborate with your primary physician and other providers. You will never have to pay for duplicate prescriptions or tests, and your primary care physician will always be in the loop. 

Sign-ups are always free. Amwell then allows you to browse its providers' personal biographies, education and experience before you choose the right one for you. Finally, schedule your appointments online and talk with your psychiatrist via video. 

The initial 45-minute session is $279, and each 15-minute follow-up session is $109. 

Pros of Amwell:

• Amwell accepts a wide range of insurance providers 
• Psychiatrists are available weekends and evenings
• You can choose your psychiatrist from a wide range of options 

Cons of Amwell:

• Amwell is unable to prescribe controlled substances (such as Adderall) but will give recommendations to your primary care physician
• It may take up to two weeks to match with a psychiatrist and book an appointment
• Amwell doesn't see patients who are younger than 18

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One of the first online telehealth companies, Teladoc has a long history of prescribing medicine for both general illness (such as cold and flu, allergies and sinus infections) and mental health. The company helps people with addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD and others. It also has the most flexible scheduling of the services on this list. 

After signing up, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire as well as your medical history. Then, you can choose a provider that you believe best fits you. Lastly, input your preferred days and time in which you are available to meet virtually. Each psychiatrist is available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., perfect for those who need to schedule outside working hours. 

The initial session begins at $299, and each follow-up will be $119. Services are also available in Canada.  

Pros of Teladoc :

• Able to choose your psychiatrist from photos and short bios
• Can schedule video or phone sessions 
• Access to teen mental health 

Cons of Teladoc :

• May take up to a week to get matched with a psychiatrist
• Pricing on the website is not super clear, may depend on your insurance
• Teladoc can not prescribe controlled substances

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Brightside focuses on helping those living with anxiety and depression. According to the website, "86% of Brightside members feel better within 12 weeks."

Brightside is different in that your service is subscription-based. You will be billed monthly, and while this is nonrefundable, you can cancel at any time. Brightside allows you unlimited access to your psychiatrist via instant message through its app, live video sessions and check-ins.   

Getting started is easy. First, take a mental health evaluation, and then Brightside will match you with a provider who will create a personalized treatment plan for you. Medication is then sent directly to your door. 

The cost varies, but the monthly subscription starts at $95 for unlimited sessions. 

Pros of Brightside :

• You can order your medication to be delivered
• Find and meet with a psychiatrist as soon as 48 hours
• Patients have free access to Brightside's self-care lessons 

Cons of Brightside :

• Only a few health insurances are accepted (although more plans are coming)
• Monthly bills are nonrefundable 
• You can't choose your psychiatrist

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Similar to Teladoc, MDLive serves patients with both general illness and mental health conditions. MDLive can prescribe medication for those with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma and PTSD, panic disorders and other mental health conditions.

MDLive serves children and teenagers aged 10 and over. Parents and guardians have the option to choose their child's provider from a long list of mental health professionals.  

After signing up and sharing the reason why you are looking for a psychiatrist, you can choose your own provider. Then connect with your psychiatrist via your phone, tablet or computer. Each session will last from 15 to 30 minutes. 

The initial session is $284, and each follow-up is $108, depending on insurance coverage. 

Pros of MDLive :

• Service is available to children over the age of 10
• Finding and meeting with a provider can be done in just a few days
• Accepts a wide range of insurance providers

Cons of MDLive :

• A parent or guardian must be present during a child's initial session
• Can not prescribe stimulants or substance controlled medications
• MDLive providers can not provide paperwork for disability or emotional support animals

Patients pursue psychiatric help for various reasons, whether they need help getting through everyday life, have heavy feelings of sadness or want a potential diagnosis. Seeing a psychiatrist can be a good place to start for patients longing to find relief.    

If you are carrying heavy burdens or simply want to discuss starting a medication, a psychiatrist may be right for you. A provider may also point you in the right direction if you have questions about counseling or therapy. However, a psychologist is not licensed to prescribe you medications. If medication or diagnosis is your number one concern, seek a psychiatrist. 

Before choosing an online or in-person psychiatrist, make sure to take into consideration your health insurance provider and any preferences you expect from your psychiatrist. The right psychiatrist for you will have experience treating your area of concern and will work with your schedule.   

As always, speak with your primary care physician or therapist before deciding if medication or a psychiatrist is right for you. 

If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate help by calling 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifetime at 1-800-273-8255.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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