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For a solo therapist, the session ends at 50 minutes and the paperwork does not. Progress notes, billing, scheduling, and telehealth all land on one person, and note-writing is the task most likely to follow you home.
AI note-taking is now built into several practice management platforms, but pricing models differ in ways that change your real monthly cost. Most comparison articles are written by vendors, so treat rankings as a starting point and confirm prices on each site.
The best tools for solo therapists
Upheal
Upheal is an AI-first platform combining AI session notes, scheduling, billing, telehealth, and client management. Its own materials describe $1 per session pricing with a monthly cap around $69 and a free tier, which one vendor blog estimates at about $50 per month for a therapist seeing 12 clients a week. That figure comes from the vendor, so run your own numbers.
SimplePractice
SimplePractice is often called the most widely used platform. Its base plan is reported at about $29 per month, but AI notes are a reported $35 per month add-on, so a fully featured setup costs more than the base price suggests.
TherapyNotes
TherapyNotes is reported at about $69 per month for solo practitioners, with AI notes available through a separate add-on reported around $40 per clinician. Reviewers differ on its AI capabilities, so check what the add-on actually does.
TheraNest
TheraNest, now part of Ensora, is a budget-friendly option with plans reported from about $29 to $89 per month.
Carepatron
Carepatron appears in comparisons with AI features priced separately or bundled depending on the plan.
Which one should you choose?
Compare the full monthly cost with the AI add-on included, not the base price. An all-in-one per-session model may suit a smaller caseload, while a flat subscription may suit a full one. Before signing up, confirm that the vendor signs a HIPAA business associate agreement and that scheduling and billing are not locked behind higher tiers.
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Frequently asked questions
Are AI session notes safe for client confidentiality?
That depends on the vendor’s security and your obligations. Ask about HIPAA compliance, a signed BAA, and how recordings and transcripts are stored, and review your licensing board’s guidance.
Do I still need to review AI-drafted notes?
Yes. You remain responsible for the clinical record, so read and correct every note before signing it.
Do clients need to consent to AI note-taking?
Generally you should tell clients and obtain consent according to your state rules and professional ethics guidelines. Check with your board or a professional association.
Is the cheapest base plan the cheapest overall?
Not always. Add the cost of AI notes, telehealth, and any features you need before comparing.