TherapyNotes vs Kareo: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between TherapyNotes and Kareo comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: TherapyNotes wins this matchup. Our overall EHR/EMR pick is Carepatron. Our free EHR/EMR pick is CharmHealth. Pick Kareo if you need its specific feature set.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
TherapyNotes
The leading EHR/EMR for behavioral health practices.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want comprehensive suite of tools for behavioral health
- • You want streamlines administrative tasks
Kareo
An all-in-one EHR+ platform for private practices, connecting care, billing, scheduling, and marketing.
Best for you if:
- • You want comprehensive all-in-one platform reduces need for multiple systems
- • You want aI features automate administrative tasks like note-taking and review responses
| At a Glance | TherapyNotes | Kareo |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | Custom |
Best For | EHR/EMR | EHR/EMR |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.2/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose TherapyNotes or Kareo?
Choose TherapyNotes if
The leading EHR/EMR for behavioral health practices.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want comprehensive suite of tools for behavioral health
- You want streamlines administrative tasks
Choose Kareo if
An all-in-one EHR+ platform for private practices, connecting care, billing, scheduling, and marketing.
- You want comprehensive all-in-one platform reduces need for multiple systems
- You want aI features automate administrative tasks like note-taking and review responses
| Feature | TherapyNotes | Kareo |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 1,069 reviews | ★4.2/5 316 reviews |
| Categories | EHR/EMRPractice Management | EHR/EMRMedical Billing |
In-Depth Analysis
TherapyNotes
The leading EHR/EMR for behavioral health practices.
Strengths
- +Comprehensive suite of tools for behavioral health
- +Streamlines administrative tasks
- +User-friendly interface
Weaknesses
- -The platform does not offer a free trial, requiring a subscription commitment to evaluate the full feature set.
- -The lowest-tier subscription plan is limited to a single user, which may not be cost-effective for small group practices.
- -While offering a client portal, the extent of customization options for branding or specific practice needs within the portal is not explicitly detailed, potentially limiting personalization.
Key features
Kareo
An all-in-one EHR+ platform for private practices, connecting care, billing, scheduling, and marketing.
Strengths
- +Comprehensive all-in-one platform reduces need for multiple systems.
- +AI features automate administrative tasks like note-taking and review responses.
- +Integrated billing and claims management helps reduce denials and speed up payments.
- +Strong focus on patient experience with online booking and communication tools.
- +Marketing tools help attract new patients and manage online reputation.
Weaknesses
- -No explicit pricing information available without a demo.
- -Learning curve for a comprehensive integrated system might exist.
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
TherapyNotes has a free tier. Kareo is paid only.
Go with: TherapyNotes
Want the highest-rated option?
TherapyNotes: 4.6/5 (1,069 reviews). Kareo: 4.2/5 (316 reviews).
Go with: TherapyNotes
Value user reviews?
TherapyNotes: 1,069 reviews (4.6/5). Kareo: 316 reviews (4.2/5).
Go with: TherapyNotes
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
TherapyNotes is freemium. Kareo is paid. TherapyNotes lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are ehr/emr tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
TherapyNotes is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.2/5.
Key Takeaways
TherapyNotes
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.2/5
- Larger review base (1,069 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Kareo
- Choose if you want an all-in-one EHR+ platform for private practices, connecting care, billing, scheduling, and marketing
The Bottom Line
TherapyNotes wins this matchup. Our overall EHR/EMR pick is Carepatron. Our free EHR/EMR pick is CharmHealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TherapyNotes or Kareo better?
TherapyNotes is rated in our evaluation. TherapyNotes is freemium and Kareo is paid.
What are TherapyNotes and Kareo used for?
TherapyNotes: The leading EHR/EMR for behavioral health practices.. Kareo: An all-in-one EHR+ platform for private practices, connecting care, billing, scheduling, and marketing..
What does TherapyNotes cost vs Kareo?
TherapyNotes is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Kareo is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.