Free Digital Tool Kit

Mobile Apps for Mental Health Support

The following apps are free, evidence-informed tools clients can use between sessions to practice coping skills, build mindfulness, and support their mental health. No therapist account or login is required unless noted.

Note: This list is provided as a client resource and is not an endorsement of any specific app. Apps do not replace therapy. If you have questions about which tools are right for you, bring them up in session.

Free - Self-Help Coping & Mindfulness

  • Trauma & PTSD Support

    Note: Apps marked with * were developed by the VA National Center for PTSD. They use veteran-centered language and examples but are fully effective for the general population.

    • * PTSD Coach — Symptom tracking, coping tools, PTSD education, and links to support resources. One of the most widely used trauma apps available.

    • * Mindfulness Coach — Guided mindfulness exercises, education, progress log, and practice reminders. Can be used alone or alongside therapy.

    • * AIMS — Anger and irritability management skills for everyday use.

    • * VetChange — Alcohol use reduction program with veteran-centered framing; skills apply broadly.

    • * Veterans Wellness Path — Wellness goal planning and tracking across multiple life domains.

  • General Mindfulness & Emotional Wellness

    • Headspace — Structured mindfulness and meditation programs for anxiety, stress, and sleep. Beginner-friendly.

    • Insight Timer — Large free library of guided meditations, sleep content, and breathing exercises.

    • Woebot — CBT-based mood check-ins and skill building via AI chatbot. No live therapist involved.

    • Wysa — AI-based emotional support using CBT, DBT, and mindfulness micro-tools.

    • MoodKit — CBT-based mood improvement activities and thought journaling.

Free — Sleep & Related Issues

  • Note: Apps marked with * were developed by the VA National Center for PTSD. They use veteran-centered language and examples but are fully effective for the general population.

    • * Insomnia Coach — Standalone sleep improvement program based on CBT for Insomnia principles. No therapist needed.

    • *CBT-i Coach — Sleep diary, insomnia severity tracking, and sleep hygiene tools. Works well as a standalone resource.

    • * Pain Coach — Pain management coping skills and tracking.

    • * Safety Plan — Crisis safety planning tool clients can set up and access anytime.

Free — VA Treatment Companion Apps

  • Note: These apps are designed to be used alongside a specific evidence-based therapy. All are free and publicly downloadable.

    • * CPT Coach — Supports clients in Cognitive Processing Therapy with homework tracking and symptom monitoring.

    • *PE Coach — Supports Prolonged Exposure therapy with session tools, breathing retraining, and between-session tasks.

    • *ACT Coach — Skills and exercises for clients engaged in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

    • *STAIR Coach — Skills training in affective and interpersonal regulation for trauma recovery.

Paid Apps

  • Note: These apps require a subscription but offer polished experiences and structured programs many clients find motivating.

    • Calm — Mindfulness, sleep stories, and anxiety programs. Approx. $70/year.

    • Headspace Premium — Structured courses for anxiety, stress, and sleep. Approx. $70/year.

    • BetterSleep — Sleep sounds, guided relaxation, and sleep tracking. Approx. $60/year.

    • Noom Mood — CBT-based mood and stress management program. Approx. $149/year.

Companion & Support Apps

  • These apps include a human or relational support element. They are not therapy but can supplement care.

    • * PTSD Family Coach — Education and coping tools designed for family members and partners of someone with PTSD. Free.

    • * Couples Coach — Communication and relationship skills for couples affected by PTSD or trauma. Free.

    • Youper — AI-assisted mood journaling with CBT and ACT techniques. Free with optional premium tier.