9 Best Free Behavioral Health EHRs in 2024

If you're a healthcare professional in the behavioral health field, you'll know how crucial it is to maintain detailed, accurate, and accessible patient records. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have dramatically improved how health professionals track and manage their patient's information, leading to improved patient care and streamlined administrative tasks. This couldn't be truer than in the behavioral health sector, where the continuity and complexity of care demand a system that can handle it all.

But as 2024 rolls in, we understand that finding a suitable electronic health record can seem like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. Cost is also critical, particularly for small practices or those just starting. Several free EHR options are robust, reliable, and tailored to behavioral health practices. These systems offer features like appointment scheduling, billing, telehealth capabilities, and patient records management - all designed to streamline your practice and enhance patient care.

In this guide, we'll take you through the 9 best free behavioural health EHR software available in 2024. Whether switching from a current behavioral health EHR software or just starting to explore digital record-keeping, we've got you covered. So, mental health professionals, buckle up, and let's dive into the world of free EHRs. Prepare to revolutionize your practice!

What should you look for in free behavioural health EHRs

So, you've decided to bring your mental and behavioral health practice into the digital age, or you're looking to upgrade your current EHR system. The big question is, what should you look for in a free therapy practice management software? Although cost (or lack thereof) is a significant factor, you should pay attention to several other vital aspects that can either make or break the efficiency of your practice. Let's delve deeper into these.

Firstly, consider the usability of the system. This is crucial for the efficiency of your staff and the speed at which they can access patient records. You should aim for an intuitive, user-friendly interface that doesn't require a steep learning curve. Remember, the purpose of an EHR system is to simplify your tasks, not complicate them.

Secondly, look for specific functionality for behavioral health practices. This includes features like therapy notes, treatment plans, and outcome tracking. This specialty-specific functionality will ensure that the EHR aligns with your workflow and meets your practice needs.

Interoperability is another factor to consider. The ability of your EHR to communicate with other systems like labs, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers is crucial for coordinating care and sharing information.

Security should be a top priority when selecting any EHR—free or not. Given patient data's sensitive nature, ensure the EHR is HIPAA-compliant and uses robust encryption methods to secure data.

Lastly, consider the support and training offered by the EHR provider. Even with the most intuitive systems, you'll likely encounter issues or have questions that need addressing. A responsive and helpful support team can make a difference in your EHR experience.

Remember, while a free EHR might be enticing for cost savings, it should also effectively support your practice needs and enhance your ability to provide high-quality care. As we delve into the top 9 free behavioral health EHRs in 2024, remember these factors to help guide your decision.

9 best Behavioral Health EHRs in 2024

1. Carepatron

At the forefront of behavioral health software in 2024, Carepatron stands out with its user-friendly design and specialized features. It's designed to help behavioral health professionals manage their practice efficiently, save time on administration, and focus more on their clients.

Carepatron best features

• Intuitive interface: Designed with user experience in mind, Carepatron is easy to navigate, reducing the time spent learning the software.
• Specialized tools: These include technical features like therapy notes, treatment plans, and outcome tracking, specifically for behavioral health practitioners.
• Secure and compliant: Carepatron ensures patient data is HIPAA compliant and safe with robust encryption.
• Integrated telehealth: This feature allows practitioners to hold video sessions directly on the platform with their clients.

Carepatron limitations

• Limited third-party integrations: Carepatron may not integrate with all third-party apps that some practices might already use.
• Limited free features: To fully use all of Carepatron's features, you need to get past their paywall, especially if you have many team members.

Carepatron pricing

• Starter: Free
• Professional: $12/month per user when billed annually, with unlimited storage and group video chat
• Organization: $19/month per user when billed annually, with advanced permissions and support for importing client data from other platforms

Carepatron reviews

• G2: 4.6/5 stars (141 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 stars (69 reviews)

2. TheraNest

TheraNest is a comprehensive EHR platform used by many behavioral health professionals. It offers many tools designed for client management, scheduling, billing, and more.

TheraNest best features

• TheraNest has features for keeping client records and appointment scheduling.
• It has a portal that allows clients to complete paperwork, view appointments, and communicate securely.
• It supports electronic claim submission to thousands of insurance companies and automatically updates claim statuses.

TheraNest limitations

• Some users report that the software can take time to learn due to its extensive features.
• There have been some complaints about slow customer service responses.

TheraNest pricing

• Up to 30 clients: $39/month
• Up to 40 clients: $50/month
• Up to 50 clients: $60/month
• Up to 80 clients: $91/month

If you get an annual subscription, you get one month free.

TheraNest reviews

• G2: 4.0/5 stars (78 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.4/5 (925 reviews)

3. SimplePractice

As a cloud-based EHR, SimplePractice offers a streamlined way for behavioral health providers to manage their practice. It covers various tasks, including scheduling, notes, billing, and telehealth.

SimplePractice best features

• SimplePractice has features for client management and online booking.
• The software is intuitive, easy to navigate, and highly customizable.
• It allows telehealth video sessions with high-definition video and sound.

SimplePractice limitations

• Users have mentioned the need for more robust reporting features.
• Some users have reported long wait times for customer service.

SimplePractice pricing

• Starter: $29/month
• Essential: $69/month
• Plus: $99/month

SimplePractice offers a free 30-day trial.

SimplePractice reviews

• G2: 4.1/5 stars (117 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 stars (2,645 reviews)

4. EpicCare

EpicCare is a highly robust, versatile EHR platform used extensively across various healthcare domains, including behavioral health. It provides an integrated suite for patient engagement, care management, and medical record keeping.

EpicCare best features

• EpicCare has features for appointment scheduling and billing.
• It offers robust interoperability features for secure data exchange with other EHR systems and healthcare entities.
• The patient portal allows patients to view their health information, communicate with providers, and manage appointments.

EpicCare limitations

• Due to its wide range of features, EpicCare can be overwhelming and complex for some users to navigate.
• It is a high-cost solution compared to other EHR systems on the market.

EpicCare pricing

• EpicCare provides customized pricing based on the needs of the organization, so you'll need to contact them for a more specific quote. However, SelectHub reports that pricing starts at $1,000.

EpicCare reviews

• G2: 4.2/5 stars (924 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.4/5 stars (361 reviews)

5. NextGen Healthcare

NextGen Healthcare offers an EHR solution optimized for behavioral health professionals. It provides a comprehensive suite of features to streamline clinical, administrative, and financial operations.

NextGen Healthcare best features

• NextGen Healthcare provides many integrated solutions, including practice management, patient portal, and telehealth.
• It offers customizable workflows to cater to the specific needs of behavioral health practices.
• The system is designed to meet various regulatory requirements, including HIPAA and Meaningful Use.

NextGen Healthcare limitations

• Some users report that navigating the system can be complex and non-intuitive.
• There have been some complaints about the quality of customer support.

NextGen Healthcare pricing

• Custom pricing is available upon request from the provider.

NextGen Healthcare reviews

• G2: 3.7/5 stars (155 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.0/5 stars (1,255 reviews)

6. AdvancedMD

AdvancedMD is a cloud-based EHR offering a comprehensive solution for independent practices. It includes patient engagement tools, telemedicine, and health records management, making it suitable for behavioral health practices.

AdvancedMD best features

• AdvancedMD offers specialty-specific templates that can be customized to match your workflow.
• The platform provides integrated telemedicine features, enabling virtual consultations.
• Access patient data on the go using their mobile app, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

AdvancedMD limitations

• Some users find the interface could be more intuitive, leading to a steep learning curve.
• While offering extensive features, AdvancedMD comes at a higher price than other EHRs.

AdvancedMD pricing

Price fluctuates depending on the features you want, so you'll have to request for a quote. However, Business.com reports the following prices:

• For AdvancedMD practice management software, $229 to $429 per month for a provider
• For PMS and EMR, $485 to $729 per month per provider

AdvancedMD reviews

• G2: 3.6/5 stars (61 reviews)
• Capterra: 3.6/5 stars (451 reviews)

7. Athenahealth

Athenahealth offers a suite of cloud-based services, including an EHR designed to streamline administrative tasks, manage patient care, and handle financial processes. It's a popular choice amongst behavioral health professionals for its flexibility and ease of use.

Athenahealth best features

• Seamless integration with other systems ensures efficient information flow.
• The software offers detailed performance insights to help optimize your practice.
• Patient portal allows for effective communication and engagement with patients.

Athenahealth limitations

• Some users find the customization options to be limited.
• Athenahealth can be costlier than other options on the market.

Athenahealth pricing

• Customized pricing is available on request, but Business.com reports that the standalone EMR software costs $140 per month per provider.

Athenahealth reviews

• G2: 3.5/5 stars (102 reviews)
• Capterra: 3.8/5 stars (836 reviews)

8. TherapyNotes

TherapyNotes is a behavioral health EHR platform that provides practice management, clinical documentation, billing, and telehealth features. It's designed with the unique needs of behavioral health professionals, making it a reliable option.

TherapyNotes best features

• Designed to streamline administrative tasks, TherapyNotes excels in workflow management.
• The software supports video sessions and secure chat for seamless remote consultations.
• TherapyNotes offers customizable templates to fit a variety of practice types.

TherapyNotes limitations

• Some users have reported that the software takes time to learn and master.
• The software may not integrate with all third-party billing services, which could be a limitation for some practices.

TherapyNotes pricing

• Solo: $49/month for one user. The best option for practitioners or new providers. 
• Group: $59/month for the first clinician + $30/month per additional clinician with unlimited non-clinical staff. 
• Enterprise: For 30+ users. It includes a designated account manager with the same features as group pricing. 

TherapyNotes offers a free 30-day trial.

TherapyNotes reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 stars (94 reviews) 
• Capterra: 4.7/5 stars (907 reviews)

9. Oracle Cerner Ambulatory EHR

Oracle Cerner (known as Oracle Health in some countries) is a well-established provider of EHR solutions, offering a practice management software that caters to a wide range of healthcare needs, including behavioral health. With a strong focus on healthcare and patient assessments, Oracle Cerner's Clinical Suite has an EHR system that is designed to support efficient patient care management.

Oracle Cerner Ambulatory EHR best features

• Oracle Cerner Clinical Suite is known for its user-friendly and customizable interface, allowing healthcare professionals to tailor the system to their specific needs.
• The software supports electronic health records (EHR), enabling comprehensive patient assessments and efficient record-keeping.
• Cerner offers robust security features, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of patient data.

Oracle Cerner Ambulatory EHR limitations

• Some users report experiencing system hang-ups and slow performance, which can impact workflow efficiency.
• The software may require multiple clicks to navigate, which could be streamlined for a more efficient user experience.

Oracle Cerner Ambulatory EHR pricing

Oracle Cerner Clinical Suite's pricing is customized based on the specific needs and requirements of the mental health practice. Interested parties should contact Oracle Cerner directly for a tailored quote, though some

Oracle Cerner Ambulatory EHR reviews

• G2: 3.6/5 stars (14 reviews) 
• Capterra: 3.8/5 stars (154 reviews)

Carepatron Behavioral Health EHR helps save you one day in admin every week

When it comes to electronic patient records, Carepatron stands as a beacon of efficiency and reliability. This software was designed with the user in mind, focusing on streamlining administrative tasks to give you back time in your work week. Imagine an entire day freed up, made possible by automating invoicing, scheduling, note-taking, and much more.

Carepatron is not only feature-rich, but it also fosters a seamless experience for both mental health providers and their clients. The intuitive and user-friendly interface means less time wrestling with complicated systems and more time focusing on your client's well-being. Backed by top-notch customer support, switching to Carepatron means you're always joined in your journey toward improved productivity.

It's time to step into the future of mental health EHR software. Embrace a stress-free administrative experience and sign up for Carepatron today. Say goodbye to cluttered workflows and hello to streamlined success. Carepatron is more than software; it's your partner in delivering top-quality care.