Our reviewers tested over 30 online psychiatrist platforms. Based on their first-hand use and my clinical insight, we picked the six best. These platforms help people manage mental health medications, including anti-anxiety meds and antidepressants. Whether your priority is flexible scheduling, affordability (with or without insurance coverage), or access to the most specialized clinicians, our list has something for you.
For most people seeking online psychiatry and medication management services, these three picks will cover everything you’re looking for:
- Talkiatry: The best choice if you want longer appointments with an actual psychiatrist
- Brightside Health: Best for comprehensive care (medication and therapy) or a long-term medication maintenance plan
- Doctor on Demand: Best for getting seen the same day you sign up
Best Online Psychiatry Platforms at a Glance
Takes insurance: Yes, exclusively
Can prescribe controlled substances: Yes (in some states)
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: Only for established psychiatry patients
Location: 45 US states
Age range: 5+
Talkiatry's winning feature is that every provider on its platform is a board-certified psychiatrist, not just an MD or NP, so using Talkiatry means you're sure to get care from someone with specific training in mental health medication. It's also one of the only online psychiatry platforms that can offer prescriptions for controlled substances, like Adderall for ADHD and Xanax for anxiety.
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: No
Subscription or pay-per-session: Subscription
Offers therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 13+
Brightside Health offers a wide range of care plans, from comprehensive therapy + medication to a low-cost medication management plan if all you need is ongoing prescription refills. It also uses a proprietary AI tool, called PrecisionRX, that looks through your medical history and current symptoms to match the best medication and dosage to your needs.
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: No
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 18+ (Under 18 with parental consent)
Doctor on Demand is exactly what it sounds like: it allows you to see a doctor quickly, including on nights and weekends. This service could be especially helpful if you just need an MD to write you a prescription for a medication you need refilled (though, note that they cannot prescribe controlled substances), or if you're looking for multiple forms of care on one platform, including medication, therapy, and urgent care.
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: Yes (depending on state)
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 6+
Grow Therapy allows you to sort its directory of over 15k providers by state, insurance, and top concerns, meaning you're likely to find someone on its platform who is a good fit for your specific needs. We like that, if you use it for medication and therapy, the providers can collaborate on your care to ensure nothing is missed.
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: Yes (depending on state)
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: No
Location: US
Age range: 18+
While not yet available nationwide (it's in 32 states so far), Circle Medical could be a great option if you need a controlled substance, like Adderall or Xanax. Its psychiatric services are integrated within its larger healthcare framework, so you might work with both a medication prescriber and a primary care doctor on a more comprehensive plan. Note that Circle Medical does not offer therapy.
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: No
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: Yes
Location: US & international
Age range: 18+
If Brightside Health and Talkiatry don't take your insurance plan, Talkspace could be another really great option for psychiatry. Its cash-pay costs are higher, so we recommend it to those using insurance, as the typical copay is around $30. It's also a good choice if you're looking for both medication and therapy, as it has tons of providers for both.
Why Trust Us
300+
Companies Reviewed 2,350+
Hours of Testing 1,150+
Data Points AnalyzedThe reviews on ChoosingTherapy.com are fair, honest, thorough, and based on firsthand experience. To date, we’ve reviewed mental health solutions offered by more than 300 companies. That has involved more than 2,350 hours of firsthand use and consideration of over 1,150 data points. Our editorial policies outline a rigorous review process, but they all boil down to this: produce reviews that our own friends and family can rely on. Learn more here.
Alternative Specialty Options for Online Psychiatry
The list of online psychiatry platforms above should generally work for every adult looking for basic care. However, if you have a specific problem you’re looking to address or you’d prefer to see a specialist, you may want to check out one of these alternatives:
- For ADHD care: While Talkiatry and Circle Medical could be great options for online ADHD care and maintenance, another top pick is Klarity, which offers appointments within 24 hours and takes both insurance and cash-pay.
- For OCD: If you have (or suspect you may have) OCD, getting comprehensive, focused care can be key. NOCD offers the best online care available for those with OCD.
- For children and teens: Some of the online psychiatry platforms we list offer medication management to children as young as five, but for those looking for comprehensive mental healthcare for their child or teen, we’ve been impressed by Bend Health.
- For women-centric care: While not yet available nationwide, our reviewer was particularly impressed with the care she received from Lunajoy, which was founded as a place for women to feel heard and seen by their mental healthcare providers.
- For ketamine treatments: If you’re interested in getting ketamine online, check out Mindbloom or Better U.
- For refills only: If you have a medication that’s working for you but you want a convenient way to fill your prescription, Hims and Hers could be decent, cost-effective options.
Detailed Online Psychiatry Platform Reviews
Price: ~$30 copay
Insurance: Yes, exclusively
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Therapy: Only in addition to psychiatry
Location: 45 US states
Age range: 5+
Talkiatry accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including some Medicare plans. Even more impressive, it has 600+ psychiatric specialists in its practice. With specialized training and thousands of hours of clinical experience, these are the kinds of providers you want on your side. Depending on your state’s laws, they may be able to prescribe certain controlled medications like Adderall, Ritalin, or Xanax (only if clinically appropriate). You’ll find that most other platforms do not even consider prescribing these substances.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts many insurance plans, including some Medicare
- Treats children (5+), teens, and adults
- Allots time for longer-than-average sessions
- Has therapists on staff; also able to work with therapists outside of its practice
Cons - Only accepts in-network patients; no cash-pay clients
- Not available in all US states (44 and counting)
- Therapy not offered independent of psychiatric care
Cost
Talkiatry’s pricing depends on your insurance coverage. It does not accept cash payments or out-of-network patients, but HSA/FSA cards are accepted. If you’re in-network, you’ll typically pay a copay or coinsurance, usually around $30 per session. Costs may be higher if you have an unmet deductible.
Talkiatry is in-network with over 100 insurance plans, including Optum, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, Anthem, and select Medicare plans
The billing process can take a week or more. Here’s how it works:
- You attend your session.
- Talkiatry bills your insurance directly.
- Your insurer determines your out-of-pocket cost.
- Your insurer tells Talkiatry how much to bill you.
- Talkiatry sends you a statement.
For more information, check out our full Talkiatry review.
Overview
Talkiatry is a top tier provider of insurance-friendly online psychiatry. Working exclusively with in-network patients makes it cost-effective for those whose insurance plan includes mental health benefits, but if you’re uninsured or underinsured, you may want to consider options like Brightside Health instead.
Notably, Talkiatry’s network of providers is made up of 600+ psychiatric specialists, which is not always a given when it comes to remote treatment. Talkiatry also prides itself on its diverse representation: 46% of the prescribers on the platform identify as people of color, and over 25 languages are spoken.
Another standout feature is Talkiatry’s allowance for longer-than-average appointment times, if needed. Your initial intake session lasts 60 minutes (or 75 minutes for children), giving you plenty of time to discuss your mental health history, goals, and treatment plan. Follow-ups range from 30 to 45 minutes—longer than most platforms—ensuring more personalized care.
According to its website, Talkiatry specializes in:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Child and adolescent care
- Depression
- Mood disorders
- OCD
- Pregnancy and postpartum care
- PTSD
Our reviews team is consistently impressed by Talkiatry’s detailed and personalized approach to psychiatric care. Instead of trying to do a little bit of everything when it comes to virtual health, it is mastering the niche of insurance-based online psychiatry.
For a deeper look, check out our full Talkiatry review.
Price: $45–$349 monthly (before insurance)
Insurance: Yes
Subscription or pay-per-session: Subscription
Therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 13+
Brightside Health is another top pick for online psychiatry, specializing in anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. It provides high-quality care at an affordable price (with or without insurance), serving adults nationwide and teens (13+) in 39 states and counting. Brightside offers online mental health medication management and therapy, and has a unique Suicide Prevention Program that we haven’t seen elsewhere. With wide insurance acceptance and medication maintenance plans for just $45 monthly, quality ongoing care with Brightside is budget-friendly.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts cash-pay or insurance, including some Medicare/Medicaid
- Night and weekend sessions available
- Anytime messaging with provider between sessions
- Can ship medication directly to you
- Uses AI technology, PrecisionRx, to effectively prescribe
- Has a progress tracking tool that lets you visualize your wellness over time
Cons - Can't prescribe any controlled substances
- Customer service can be a little slow
Cost
Brightside Health’s cash-pay costs range from $45 to $349 monthly, depending on the plan you select. Additional fees apply for and medication shipping ($15 each, unless covered by insurance).
Here are the subscription options:
- Psychiatry Only ($95 monthly): Includes an initial consultation with a psychiatrist and ongoing care.
- Psychiatric Maintenance Plan ($45 monthly): After becoming established with your prescriber for 90 days, you can opt for a maintenance plan that includes unlimited prescriber messaging and a monthly online check-in. If an additional video consultation is required, it costs $50 per appointment
- Therapy Only ($299 monthly): Offers four live video sessions with a therapist each month. Extra sessions cost $59 per session.
- Psychiatry + Therapy ($349 monthly): Combines both psychiatric care and therapy sessions for comprehensive support.
Brightside accepts a wide variety of insurance plans, including some Medicare and Medicaid. Other plans it accepts include Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Anthem.
For more insight on pricing, visit our full Brightside Health review.
Overview
Brightside Health is a subscription-based platform, meaning it provides ongoing access to its services for a recurring monthly fee. Cash-pay prices range from $45 to $349 monthly. For those with insurance, Brightside accepts many plans—including some Medicare and Medicaid—which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for mental health medication online.
Brightside’s medication appointments are typically 15–30 minutes, with initial appointments at around 45 minutes. For an additional $15 per medication, Brightside can also ship prescriptions directly to you, which may even be covered by your insurance if you’re in-network. Brightside will not prescribe controlled medications such as Ritalin or Adderall.
According to its website, it specializes in the following:
- ADHD
- Acute stress disorder
- Bipolar
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Insomnia
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Panic disorder
- Persistent depressive disorder
- Phobias
- Postpartum depression
- PTSD
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
Brightside’s AI-powered tool, PrecisionRx, helps the prescribers on its platform analyze personal data and over 1,000 medication and dosage combinations to predict the most effective and tolerable prescription for each client. According to Brightside, 70% of patients respond well to their first prescribed medication using this technology.
Learn more about our team’s experience in our full Brightside Health review.
Price: $129–$299 per session (before insurance)
Insurance: Yes
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 18+
Doctor on Demand gives users the ability to connect with psychiatrists, therapists, and primary care doctors all in one app. In other words, it’s great for a little bit of everything when it comes to health; however, it’s not the best for treating severe psychiatric illness or prescribing any forms of controlled medications, including Adderall or Xanax. It’s a better resource for quick, relatively low-cost comprehensive care, including psychiatry.
Pros & Cons
Pros - One-stop-shop for virtual healthcare (everyday, urgent, & mental health)
- Night and weekend sessions available
- Has cheaper 15-minute follow-up sessions for medication management
Cons - Accepts fewer insurance plans compared to other platforms
- Has strict appointment time limits
- No provider messaging between sessions
Cost
Doctor on Demand is priced per session. It accepts some insurance plans, such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wellmark, Regence, Healthnet Federal Services, and Humana Military. Patients can choose to schedule either a 25-minute or 50-minute therapy session; however, an initial 45-minute session with a psychiatrist is required before scheduling cheaper, 15-minute follow-up sessions.
Details about Doctor on Demand pricing for out-of-pocket costs include:
- Psychiatry: $299 for an initial 45-minute session; $129 per 15-minute follow-up
- Therapy: $184 per 50-minute session; $134 per 25-minute session
If your plan is in-network with Doctor on Demand, costs will vary depending on your coverage, copays, and deductible.
Explore our Doctor on Demand review in detail.
Overview
Doctor on Demand is a one-stop shop for many healthcare needs, and unique in its offering of mental health and primary care services. This could make it a good choice for those looking to receive all of their care on one platform.
When our reviewer used Doctor on Demand, they felt that it was very easy to onboard and they found a provider with almost immediate availability. Their experience during the initial consultation was good except for a somewhat abrupt ending. They later learned that each session on Doctor on Demand has a strict time limit.
If you’re looking for a provider that’s more specific to mental health, Talkiatry is a better medication and therapy solution for anyone with an in-network insurance plan. Those who need medication and therapy but don’t have insurance could be better served by Brightside Health.
Read our Doctor on Demand review in its entirety.
Price: ~$80–$250 per session
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: Yes (depending on state)
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: Yes
Location: US
Age range: 6+
Grow Therapy is a comprehensive online platform offering both therapy and medication management across the U.S., including online and in-person formats. Its psychiatric component is delivered by licensed MDs, DOs, and PMHNPs who provide medication management for conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, and more. Cash-pay rates for psychiatric appointments typically range from $80 to $250, while insurance copays average around $0–$50 per session depending on your plan.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts tons of insurance plans and lists clear cash rates
- Wide network of over 15,000 mental healthcare providers
- Platform enables coordination between medication providers and therapists
Cons - Cash rates vary significantly by provider and location
- Not optimized for seeking specialist care
Cost
Grow Therapy’s cash-pay rates for psychiatric care typically range from $80 to $250 per session, depending on the provider, location, and length of appointment. Services are billed on a pay-per-session basis, and there are no additional fees for using the platform. Medication appointments include initial intake evaluations and follow-up visits, which are priced individually.
Grow Therapy accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield, Anthem, and some Medicare and Medicaid plans. Insurance copays for psychiatric visits typically range from $0 to $50, depending on your coverage and provider network.
Clients can view provider-specific fees directly in the booking portal and filter by in-network status to find psychiatrists or nurse practitioners covered by their plan.
For more insight on pricing, visit our full Grow Therapy review.
Overview
Grow Therapy is a pay-per-session platform that offers both therapy and psychiatric medication management through a wide network of licensed prescribers, including psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Appointments are booked individually, with cash-pay rates typically ranging from $80 to $250. For those using insurance, Grow Therapy accepts the most insurance plans we’ve seen, including Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and BlueCross BlueShield.
Grow Therapy’s directory lets users filter by specialty, availability, licensure, modality, and insurance, making it easy to find a psychiatric provider who suits your needs. Its platform supports asynchronous messaging, integrated intake forms and video visits, and coordination between prescribers and therapy providers with shared client notes.
Medication appointments are held virtually within the platform and vary in length depending on the provider. Clients typically begin with an intake evaluation, followed by brief check-ins. Prescriptions are sent to the client’s preferred pharmacy; Grow does not currently offer direct-to-door medication shipping.
Learn more in our full Grow Therapy review.
Price: ~$100–$150
Takes insurance: Yes
Can prescribe controlled substances: Yes (depending on state)
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Offers therapy: No
Location: 32 States
Age range: 18+
Circle Medical offers a wide range of virtual healthcare services, including psychiatry and medication management, and it takes many major insurance plans. Its psychiatry services are integrated within the larger system, so you may work with both primary care physicians and psychiatric providers for a more holistic approach. Depending on state regulations and the needs of the client, providers on Circle Medical can prescribe controlled substances like Adderall or Xanax, an important offering for those with ADHD or certain anxiety disorders.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts many commercial insurance plans
- Offers psychiatric and primary care in one platform
- Can prescribe controlled medications if appropriate
Cons - Providers are generally nurse practitioners (not MD psychiatrists)
- Not available in all 50 states (32 so far)
Cost
Circle Medical’s fees depend on your insurance. The platform accepts many major insurance providers, including Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Anthem, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. If in-network, most patients pay a copay around $30–$50, and it also accepts HSA/FSA cards. Depending on the type and length of visit, those without insurance can expect to pay $100–$150 per visit.
The billing process is straightforward:
- You book and attend your appointment.
- Circle Medical submits a claim to your insurance.
- Insurance processes the claim and determines your portion.
- You are charged your copay or coinsurance after processing.
Learn more in our detailed Circle Medical review.
Overview
Circle Medical stands out as an accessible and insurance-friendly option for adults seeking medication management. Unlike many psychiatry platforms, Circle Medical operates under a broader healthcare umbrella, offering not just mental health treatment but also primary care, chronic condition management, and preventative services. This makes it a particularly good fit for those who want all their care under one roof.
While therapy isn’t offered through Circle Medical, its streamlined medication management service is ideal for people already in therapy elsewhere or those only seeking medication. Providers can often prescribe common psychiatric medications, including SSRIs, mood stabilizers, and in some cases, stimulants or benzodiazepines, when clinically appropriate and within their state’s laws (some states require in-person visits before allowing the prescription of a controlled substance).
According to its website, Circle Medical treats:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Panic disorder
- OCD
- PTSD
- Other mood disorders
For more detailed information, check out our full Circle Medical review.
Price: $175 – $299 per session (before insurance)
Insurance: Yes
Subscription or pay-per-session: Pay-per-session
Therapy: Yes
Location: US & International
Age range: 18+
I’ll start by saying that if you aren’t insured or in-network with Talkspace, we recommend Brightside, Talkiatry, or one of the other platforms on this list. But if you do have insurance that Talkspace accepts, it can be a fantastic option to get both medication and therapy in one convenient place. Our reviewers really appreciate the overall Talkspace user experience, including its platform, app, and umbrella of services, which also includes therapy for teens and adults, couples counseling, and Talkspace Go, a cheaper, self-directed alternative to one-on-one therapy.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts many insurance plans, including some Medicare
- Users can bundle services for a discounted price
- Covered members pay an average $15 copay
- Users can switch therapists seamlessly to find the right fit
Cons - Without insurance, cash-pay prices are high
- Due to sheer size, quality of care can vary
- Cannot prescribe controlled substances (no stimulants or benzodiazepines)
Cost
Talkspace accepts many insurance plans, including Cigna, Carelon, Aetna, TRICARE, some traditional Medicare, Regence, and Anthem.
While its therapy services are on a monthly subscription plan, prices for psychiatric care are per-session with discounts for bundling (remember, these could be much lower if you have insurance coverage):
- Initial evaluation: $299
- Follow-up sessions: $175 per session
- For new members – Initial evaluation + 1 follow-up: $435
- For new members – Initial evaluation + 3 follow-ups: $725
- For existing members – 3 follow-ups: $475
- For existing members – 6 follow-ups: $890
- For existing members – 9 follow-ups: $1,260
For more information, including cost of therapy, read our Talkspace review.
Overview
Talkspace offers therapy and psychiatry services for anyone 13+ in the U.S. and internationally, treating individuals, couples, and those seeking online mental health medication management. It’s a well-known company that has grown quite a lot over the years. The sheer size of the platform makes it difficult to ensure that every provider will knock it out of the park, meaning care can be hit or miss.
However, something we love about Talkspace is that it makes it extremely easy to switch therapists, so you can basically shop around for the right provider, trying new ones until you find the right match. When one of our reviewers tried Talkspace, they had a great experience for this very reason.
Here’s what you can expect when signing up for psychiatry through Talkspace:
- After answering a few questions online, you’ll schedule a video assessment with a psychiatric provider who is licensed in your state.
- During this appointment, your provider is able to diagnose and prescribe (if appropriate).
- The prescription will be sent to your pharmacy.
- You’ll follow-up with your provider every three months.
Learn more in our review of Talkspace.
Compare the Best Companies
| Price | ~$30 copay | $45–$349 monthly | $129–$299 per session | ~$80–$250 per session | ~$100–$150 per session | $175–$299 per session |
| Accepts insurance |  | | | | | |
| Therapy | | | | | | |
| Location | 44 US states | US | US | US | 32 US States | US & International |
| Price | |||||
| ~$30 copay | $45–$349 monthly | $129–$299 per session | ~$80–$250 per session | ~$100–$150 per session | $175–$299 per session |
| Accepts insurance | |||||
| | | | | | |
| Therapy | |||||
| | | | | | |
| Location | |||||
| 44 US states | US | US | US | 32 US States | US & International |
Final Verdict
“Finding the best online psychiatrist platform ultimately depends on your specific needs. The top three on our list, Talkiatry, Brightside, and Doctor on Demand, are really the best of the best. Talkiatry is ideal if you have insurance, and it will consider prescribing controlled medications (e.g., Adderall and Xanax) when clinically appropriate. Brightside offers high-quality care at a great value whether you have insurance or not. Doctor on Demand is a really solid option for those looking for comprehensive healthcare all on one platform.”
What Is Online Psychiatry?
Online psychiatry, also known as telepsychiatry, is a form of telehealth that allows you to connect with a mental health medication management provider from anywhere with internet access.1 It includes services such as screening, assessment, medication management, prescription refills, and crisis support. Some platforms may also offer full diagnostic evaluations or talk therapy options.
Research shows that online psychiatry is an effective form of care, offering the same quality of treatment as in-person visits for many mental health conditions. Its convenience and accessibility make it especially valuable—you can skip the commute and expand your search beyond local providers, connecting with licensed professionals across your entire state.
Online Psychiatry Vs. Online Therapy
Psychiatry is a form of mental healthcare provided by specially trained medical professionals, such as psychiatrists—who are physicians—or nurse practitioners. Psychiatric care often focuses on diagnosing mental health conditions, prescribing medications, and offering ongoing support. While some psychiatrists are also trained in talk therapy, therapy itself is typically provided by non-physician mental health professionals, such as psychologists or Master’s and Doctoral-level therapists.
If you’re ready to start a talk therapy journey, explore our guide to the best online therapy services. If you’d prefer to find an online psychiatrist, use this guide as a starting place, and remember, it’s essential to find a provider who aligns with your needs, preferences, and treatment goals.
What to Expect at Your First Online Psychiatry Appointment
Online psychiatry appointments can have many similarities to online therapy appointments. One of the biggest differences you may notice is how much more in-depth a psychiatry appointment can be when it comes to your physical health. Typically, your initial evaluation with a psychiatric provider will take between 30 and 60 minutes.
Your provider will generally spend the first part of the appointment asking you questions about your health background and family history. They will gather information about any prior mental health diagnoses and medications you have tried, your experiences with other types of mental health treatment, and your goals. This will help them assess you for mental health symptoms, possible diagnoses, and what medications may be the best fit for you.
Prior to your first online psychiatry appointment, it is beneficial to have anything you may need close at hand. This includes water, tissues, your medical history, your family history, and some patience. Your provider has to get a good sense of you as a whole person before they begin helping you work on your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a virtual psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Yes, virtual psychiatrists can prescribe many types of medication. The first appointment with an online psychiatrist is typically an evaluation, where they gather background information and assess your symptoms. They then discuss a treatment plan with you, which may include medication.
Depending on the service you use, medications may be sent to your local pharmacy or mailed directly to your home. You can then schedule follow-up appointments for refills and ongoing medication monitoring.
What is the best online psychiatrist platform?
Talkiatry is our #1 recommendation for online psychiatry. It offers longer appointment times with board-certified psychiatrists, who have more mental health training than other forms of doctors or nurse practitioners. If Talkiatry isn’t in-network with your insurance or you need to pay out of pocket, our other top picks are Brightside Health and Doctor on Demand.
Is psychiatry online reliable?
Yes, online psychiatry is effective and reliable. Research shows that virtual psychiatrist appointments can be just as accurate for diagnosis as in-person visits. Many patients find online psychiatry convenient and comfortable, while psychiatrists recognize its value in treating a wide range of mental health conditions.
Many studies have shown that telepsychiatry was effective and did not differ from in-person treatment.4 Both patients and providers generally have a positive view of telepsychiatry, as it offers significant benefits to a wide range of individuals.5
Can an online psychiatrist prescribe Xanax?
Xanax is a controlled medication, meaning that it can potentially be abused and cause addiction in people who take it.6 One of the only online psychiatry platforms that allows controlled medication prescriptions is Talkiatry. Providers through Circle Medical may also be able to offer Xanax prescriptions. Note that not all states allow for online prescriptions of controlled substances, so double-check your state before signing up.
Does insurance cover telehealth psychiatry?
Yes, many online psychiatry platforms take insurance. However, before signing up, it is important to read through provider profiles and online psychiatry websites to verify your specific plan is accepted. Many have insurance pages where you can get an estimate of your copay, or you can reach out to the company directly for further help figuring out if your insurance is accepted. Also, be sure to verify coverage with your plan directly to avoid unexpected costs.
Can an online psychiatrist diagnose?
Yes, online psychiatrists can give diagnoses. The first session you have with an online psychiatrist will likely involve a lot of questions about your symptoms and experiences, though it may take more than one appointment to receive a diagnosis. However, for more straightforward concerns, such as depression and anxiety, it’s very possible to receive a diagnosis and a prescription after one session.
Can Talkiatry prescribe Adderall?
Yes, in many states providers on Talkiatry can prescribe Adderall. However, some states require an in-person visit before doctors are allowed to prescribe controlled substances like Adderall. Be sure to know the laws in your state before signing up to ensure you get the care you need.
ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
-
American Psychiatric Association. (2021). Telepsychiatry. Retrieved from: https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/telepsychiatry
-
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Telehealth for the treatment of serious mental illness and substance use disorders. Retrieved from: https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP21-06-02-001.pdf
-
Greenwood, H., Krzyzaniak, N., Peiris, R., Clark, J., Scott, A. M., Cardona, M., … & Glasziou, P. (2022). Telehealth versus face-to-face psychotherapy for less Common mental health conditions: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. JMIR Mental Health, 9(3), e31780. https://mental.jmir.org/2022/3/e31780
-
Snoswell, C. L., Chelberg, G., De Guzman, K. R., Haydon, H. H., Thomas, E. E., Caffery, L. J., & Smith, A. C. (2021). The clinical effectiveness of telehealth: A systematic review of meta-analyses from 2010 to 2019. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 1-16. DOI: 10.1177/1357633X211022907
-
Li, H., Glecia, A., Kent-Wilkinson, A., Leidl, D., Kleib, M., & Risling, T. (2021). Transition of mental health service delivery to telepsychiatry in response to COVID-19: A literature review. Psychiatric Quarterly, 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-021-09926-7
-
U.S. Department of Justice. (n.d.). Controlled substance schedules. Retrieved from: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/
-
Health Resources & Services Administration. (2021). Prescribing controlled substances via telehealth. Retrieved from: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/policy-changes-during-the-covid-19-public-health-emergency/prescribing-controlled-substances-via-telehealth/
-
Sharma, G., & Devan, K. (2023). The effectiveness of telepsychiatry: thematic review. British Journal of Psychiatry bulletin, 47(2), 82-89.
-
Church, M. (January 2025). Talkiatry Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/talkiatry-review/
-
Church, M. (March 2025). Brightside Health Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/brightside-health-review/
-
Suarez-Angelino, Lena. (April 2025). Doctor on Demand Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/doctor-on-demand-review/
-
Rueger, A. (June 2025). Grow Therapy Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who It’s Right For. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/grow-therapy-review/
-
Lieberman, A. (April 2025). Circle Medical Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/circle-medical-review/
-
Church, M. (May 2025). Talkspace Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/talkspace-review/
-
Suarez-Angelino, L. (April 2025). Klarity Review: Cost, Pros & Cons, & Who it’s Right For. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/klarity-adhd-review/
-
Adamek, E. (May 2025). Thriveworks Counseling Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who it’s Right For. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/thriveworks-review/
-
Lieberman, A. (May 2025). MEDvidi Review: My Experience, Cost, & Pros & Cons. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/medvidi-review/
-
Adamek, E. (May 2025). MDLive Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/mdlive-review/
-
Church, M. (March 2025). Sesame Care Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/sesame-care-review/
-
Guarnotta, E. (July 2025). Cerebral Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & Who It’s Right For. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/cerebral-review/
-
Suarez-Angelino, L. (May 2025). Teladoc Review: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/teladoc-review/
-
Stretcher, A. (February 2025). LiveHealth: My Experience, Cost, & Pros & Cons. ChoosingTherapy.com. Retrieved from: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/livehealth-review/
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: Melissa Boudin, PsyD (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Removed LiveHealth, MDLive, and Hims & Hers from our key list, added Grow Therapy and Circle Medical. Added “Alternative Specialty Options for Online Psychiatry” section. Fact-checked and edited entire article.
Author: Melissa Boudin, PsyD (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Updated where necessary to improve factual accuracy and readability; reconsidered/made changes to the recommendations list based on research and product testing; made Talkiatry Best Overall and Brightside Most Affordable; added Talkspace as Best for Medication + Therapy and Doctor on Demand as Most Comprehensive Telehealth; added Klarity and Sesame to Other Companies to Consider and removed K-Health.
Author: Melissa Boudin, PsyD (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Complete rewrite of article. Fact-checked all information and reconsidered/made changes to the recommendations list based on research and product testing. Updated where necessary to improve factual accuracy and readability. Companies removed from list: Talkspace, Sesame Care, Thriveworks, Brightline. Companies added to list: None.
Author: Matthew Church, MS (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (New medical reviewer)
Primary Changes: Complete rewrite of list with new rankings and entries, added new firsthand experiences and insights from most recent product reviews, updated list to a new format, fully fact-checked and verified for accuracy, and rewrote for clarity and readability. New content was written by Matthew Church, MS, and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, MD.
Author: Emily Guarnotta, PsyD (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Complete revamp of overall style; updated logos for all companies.
Author: Emily Guarnotta, PsyD (No change)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Updated for readability, and fact-checked all prices, and offerings. Updated “Best of” categories, FAQ, and Other Online Psychiatry Options to Try.
Author: Emily Guarnotta, PsyD
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD
Your Voice Matters
Leave your own reviews!
Have you used an online therapy company? Have you tried an online psychiatry service? Do you use a meditation or mindfulness app? We’d love to hear about your experience!
We want to hear about the companies you love and the companies you wish you never used.
Leave your feedback for our editors.
Share your feedback on this article with ChoosingTherapy.com’s editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.
Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)