These Are The Best Online Psychiatry Providers That Take Insurance

Find the best online psychiatry providers and medication management to fit your needs.

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If you’ve been trying traditional talk therapy, but still aren’t feeling better, it may be time to see a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor that can prescribe medication to treat various mental illnesses. The problem: Psychiatrists are not always accessible. Psychiatry services can cost hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket, and finding one in-network can be arduous. A 2023 study published in the Community Mental Health Journal found that half of the calls made to psychiatry providers listed in the UnitedHealthcare network resulted in no call back. Just 3% of all calls made resulted in an appointment being booked. And even if you find a psychiatrist, only 55% of psychiatrists accept insurance—far fewer than any other medical doctor.

As daunting as these stats sound, it is possible to find a psychiatrist that takes insurance, especially if you see one online. Not only is virtual psychiatry convenient—you don’t have to set aside time to commute to an office—but billing your insurance is also often easier because many psychiatry platforms will collect your insurance information when you sign up. So to help you find the best virtual psychiatry options that accept insurance, we evaluated 55 companies and 25 directories, looking for psychiatry companies that not only accept insurance, but also offer a wide range of specialties. Read on to find the best online psychiatry platform for you. 

Best Online Psychiatry That Takes Insurance of 2023

Why Trust Us
80
Companies reviewed
10,637
Total users surveyed
350
Data points analyzed
We surveyed 105 users from 55 online therapy companies and 180 users from 25 therapist directories and asked the companies to complete questionnaires. Then, we tested the services ourselves across multiple states, conducted comprehensive data collection research, and evaluated our results with the help of three licensed therapists.

When choosing an online therapy provider, we recommend that you read the company’s privacy guidelines before you sign up to better understand whether it is HIPAA-compliant and whether it shares any private information with third parties. There have been some concerns raised by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and several government officials about what user health information online therapy providers collect and what they do with any information they collect.

These Are The Best Online Psychiatry Providers That Take Insurance
These Are The Best Online Psychiatry Providers That Take Insurance

Best for Inclusive Care : Talkiatry


  • Price: Depends on your insurance
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes. Yes. BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Tricare, Medicare, and others
  • Type Of Therapy: Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry
Why We Chose It

Talkiatry simplifies access to psychiatric support by providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care to those with insurance.

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Accepts many insurance plans

  • Provides culturally sensitive care

  • Services available for kids and adolescents

Cons
  • Can only receive therapy from the platform if you’re seeing a Talkiatry psychiatrist

  • Only available to those with insurance

  • Can only view prices after sign-up

Overview 

Talkiatry is our pick for the most inclusive and culturally sensitive online psychiatry service because it has a wide range of conditions treated, a diverse roster of clinicians, and an emphasis on accepting a variety of insurance plans. It was founded in 2020 by Georgia Gaveras, DO, and Robert Krayn, and we appreciate the personal ethos behind the organization. After Krayn sought psychiatric services due to a traumatic home invasion, he was disillusioned by how hard it was to find a psychiatrist who accepted insurance. Dr. Gaveras, who spent an 18-year long tenure in the New York hospital system, was also frustrated by the barriers prohibiting patients from accessing the care they need. Thus, they teamed up to create Talkiatry, a unique service that exclusively supports those who need care within their insurance network.

Providers that take insurance can get a bad rap, with a reputation of being burnt out, juggling miles-long waitlists, and lacking the personal touch mental healthcare requires. To combat this stereotype, Talkiatry offers longer sessions than most online psychiatry companies and features a diverse roster of clinicians who specialize in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and substance use disorder.

To get started, you’ll simply sign up on the homepage. From there, you’ll be shown some more details on what Talkiatry can and cannot provide. If you’re solely seeking talk therapy, looking to have an evaluation for disability benefits without treatment, or are in a crisis, Talkiatry won’t be the right fit for you. If you choose to continue, you’ll first be prompted to verify your email address. Then, you will take a brief assessment reviewing your provider preferences, psychiatric history, and medications you’re taking. You’ll also have your insurance verified to make sure you’re in-network with Talkiatry. Next, you’ll be shown some psychiatrist options to choose from. Once you pick one, you’re able to sign up for an appointment. We love how simple and straightforward the process is. Sessions are held through live video, with the first appointment lasting one hour and follow-ups lasting half an hour. Talkiatry is available in all states except Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Types of Insurance Accepted

You can check if your insurance is accepted simply by clicking a tab that reads “insurance” at the top of the homepage. You’ll receive an immediate answer on whether your insurance is accepted and if a referral is needed. Talkiatry is in-network with 29 different insurance companies, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, Oscar, and UnitedHealthcare. Unfortunately, you cannot check any potential co-pay costs until you sign up. 

Plans & Pricing 

Talkiatry does not offer any plans or memberships. Additionally, services are only available to those who have insurance, therefore all fees are dependent upon each particular insurance plan’s coverage. Talkiatry does not offer any free consultations, but a free assessment is part of the sign-up process.

User Satisfaction  

Talkiatry has an excellent user rating, with 95% of the 105 users we surveyed giving it a rating of good, very good, or excellent. Over half of users (56%) specifically sought support for anxiety and 70% stated their provider met most, if not all, of their needs. Another 91% were especially impressed with the qualifications of Talkiatry providers. One of our testers was pleased with his experience, reporting that “my psychiatrist was very personable and knowledgeable,” and that he “felt like the session was the perfect length and I got to cover everything I wanted to cover.”

Best for Talk Therapy and Psychiatry : Brightside


  • Price: $95-$349 per month
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry
Why We Chose It 

Receiving talk therapy and psychiatric support from the same company, and having each covered by insurance, can help simplify your healing process. Brightside offers both, plus virtual coping tools that can be used at any time.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • In-depth assessment questionnaire 

  • Discounted plan when receiving therapy and psychiatry

  • Messaging feature to contact your therapist any time

Cons
  • Cannot browse therapist bios

  • Switching providers can be a lengthy process

  • Subsequent sessions after first have shorter duration than standard

Overview 

Navigating multiple providers can prove to be an exhausting process. Between the exorbitant costs, tracking various appointment schedules, and ensuring you’re satisfied with each clinician, some may be turned off of the idea of receiving both talk therapy and psychiatry services. However, receiving both can be instrumental in the healing process. We love Brightside because it offers both therapy and psychiatry, plus a virtual coping tools program, at an accessible monthly price. Plus, it is in-network with multiple insurance plans.

Brightside specializes in mental health support for those suffering from anxiety and depression, though it also offers support for those experiencing bipolar II, phobias, OCD, panic disorders, seasonal affective disorder, and insomnia. We appreciate this because it means there is room for co-occurring diagnoses to be treated. Appointments are held through live video. For talk therapy, appointments are 45 minutes long. For psychiatry, appointments are only 15 minutes long, though the first appointment may be longer based on the complexity of presenting symptoms and suggested treatment plan. Regardless of which service you are receiving, you also gain access to the platform’s virtual self-guided coping skill exercises. Additionally, you can track your progress for you and your provider to see. 

Brightside currently only offers treatment for adults. Its website boasts high success rates, stating 75% of users start with moderate to severe symptoms and 86% feel significantly better within 12 weeks. Its services are available in all 50 states. 

Types of Insurance Accepted

Brightside is in-network with Cigna, Aetna, Anthem CA, Allegiance, Optum, and UnitedHealthcare. You can verify your insurance coverage during the sign-up process. 

Plans & Pricing 

Brightside offers three different out-of-pocket plans:

  • For just medication management, it costs $95 per month. This plan includes a psychiatric evaluation, ongoing support and monitoring of your treatment plan, and access to skill-building exercises. Medication is not included, but every medication costs $15 if paying out-of-pocket.
  • For therapy services, you get four weekly therapy sessions and access to the coping skill-building exercises for $299 per month.
  • A plan that includes both the medication management features and therapy services costs $349 a month.

If using insurance to pay for Brightside’s services, your individual fee will vary depending on your insurance plan. 

A free assessment is included in the sign-up process. Free consultations are not offered.

User Satisfaction  

Ninety percent of the 105 Brightside users surveyed are pleased with their experience on the platform, with 85% especially satisfied with the diversity of therapists offered. Seventy-four percent gave the resources Brightside offers a positive rating and 75% of all users would recommend the platform to a friend. One tester of Brightside was especially impressed with the quality of service she received, saying, “I loved my therapist! She was attentive and able to build rapport swiftly,” while also reporting that “logging into the session was very easy and there were no tech issues.”

Best Flexible Scheduling : Thriveworks


  • Price: Session rate varies by provider; starts at $99 per session
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

Coordinating yet another appointment can be a major challenge when seeking out a psychiatrist. We appreciate that Thriveworks offers in-network psychiatry with same day appointments.

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Same day appointments are available

  • Psychiatry for minors is available

  • Accepts a wide range of health insurance plans

Cons
  • Website can be overwhelming

  • Cannot filter therapists by racial identity

Overview 

Making the decision to seek out medication is seldom easy and once you’ve decided you’re open to seeing a psychiatrist, you’re likely eager to get support as soon as possible. However, many organizations can have lengthy waitlists or take over a week to match you with a provider. Thriveworks prioritizes flexible scheduling, often offering same day or next day appointments. With psychiatry available in 26 states and therapy in every state except Vermont, we love that you can get all of your mental health needs met here—for the whole family. In addition to psychiatry, you can seek out individual, couples, children’s, teen, and family therapy. Plus, Thriveworks offers psychiatry for teens, too, another service that can be difficult to find in-network within a reasonable timeframe. 

While there are great aspects of the care Thriveworks offers, keep in mind that there are some limitations. First, Thriveworks psychiatrists cannot prescribe stimulant medications that are often used to treat ADHD. This includes Adderall, Concerta, and Focalin. They also cannot prescribe any benzodiazepines, which are used for anxiety and insomnia. So, if you’re in need of Xanax or Ativan, this isn’t the best place to seek care. Additionally, Thriveworks does not prescribe any substance use treatment drugs. 

The initial psychiatry session lasts 50 to 60 minutes, and evening and weekend appointments are available, making Thriveworks’ services even more flexible. While offering same-day and next-day appointments is a priority for the company, some psychiatrists are in higher demand and the wait may be three to five days long.

Types of Insurance Accepted

Thriveworks is in-network with 21 insurance companies, including Aetna, Anthem, Humana, Cigna, and Medicare. Co-pays could be as low as $10 per session. You can filter providers based on which insurance they are in-network with. However, Thriveworks recommends that clients reach out to their insurance company to confirm their provider is in-network and review what their financial responsibility is. 

Plans & Pricing 

Co-pay costs vary based on each individual’s insurance plan and benefits. Out-of-pocket costs for therapy sessions start at $160 each and psychiatry sessions are typically $210. Prices vary based on each provider’s location, credentials, and experience. Thriveworks does not offer free assessments or consultations, but you can call them directly for help getting started.

User Satisfaction  

Thriveworks' user feedback is exceptional, with 98% of users giving its medication management and psychiatry services a positive rating. Sixty-eight percent stated their prescriber is available when they need them, which anyone who has spent days trying to track down their provider will know is a big plus. One of our testers said that “it is nice to have the frustrating work of finding a therapist simplified and the therapist was great.” Additionally, nearly half of users had their dosage changed just once, 26% had it changed two to three times, and another 26% had their dosage changed four to five times, indicating that their providers were attentive to their needs and able to work with them until they found the medication regimen that worked best for them.

Best for Multiple Diagnoses : Wellnite


  • Price: $95 per month (charged bi-weekly) for medication management only; $450 per month for regular therapy sessions; $245 per month for medication management and 1-2 monthly therapy
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Individual Therapy, Medication Management
Why We Chose It 

Wellnite has a wide range of providers who use evidence-based methods to treat depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, grief, ADHD, and more, all while accepting a variety of insurance plans. We’re confident that those with multiple diagnoses can find the care they deserve with this platform.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Affordable plans

  • Can see underage clients

  • Scheduling flexibility

Cons
  • Cannot prescribe controlled substances

  • Isn’t transparent about insurance plans it accepts

  • Website isn’t very detailed

Overview 

It can be challenging to find a platform that is versed in treating multiple diagnoses, offers both therapy and psychiatry, is in-network with various insurance plans, and is financially accessible for the uninsured. Wellnite meets all of these criteria, making it our pick for best online psychiatry that takes insurance for multiple diagnoses. Founded with the goal of making healthcare accessible to all, the company values “a personalized approach based on science and expertise”  to treating depression, eating disorders, family issues, friend issues, grief, sleep challenges, stress, ADHD, substance use, anger, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, career issues, and OCD. Additionally, members of the LGBTQIA+ community are welcomed and Wellnite's providers are racially diverse. 

Getting started is simple. You have two options. You can browse the website’s list of providers and request an appointment with a clinician. You’ll need to share your name, insurance information, state, contact information, and the type of treatment you want. Then, the provider will reach out to you. Another option is to click “Get Started” on the website homepage. From there, you are prompted to select which plan you’d like, create an account, and submit payment. This route can feel more impersonal; we aren’t a fan of being prompted to submit payment before an assessment is complete. 

Providers on staff include professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and psychiatrists. Wellnite doctors cannot prescribe controlled substances, which is typical for telehealth platforms due to state regulations. Therapy sessions can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the plan selected. Wellnite services are available for adults and minors. Those under 18 years old need written authorization from their parents to participate in treatment. 

Types of Insurance Accepted

Wellnite’s website isn’t transparent when it comes to insurance plans—it simply states it is in-network with some PPO plans and invites you to input your insurance information when signing up. However, its customer service is swift and supportive. Reps let us know that Wellnite accepts Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Kaiser, Aetna, Beacon, Humana, and Blue Shield of California. Potential co-pay costs are not available. 

Plans & Pricing 

For those who do not have a PPO insurance plan in-network with Wellnite, its membership plans may be a great fit. 

  • For psychiatric care, you can access one doctor consultation, wholesale pricing on mental health medication, and unlimited access to member support for $95 per month. This plan is charged biweekly. It also includes free delivery on up to to three different medications deliveries per month. If you need more than three deliveries, you will be charged $15 for the extra shipping costs.
  • For therapy, you can access six 30-minute sessions, four 45-minute sessions, or three 60-minute sessions per month, plus unlimited access to member support. for $450 a month.
  • For therapy and psychiatric care together, the plan includes one doctor consultation, wholesale pricing and three free deliveries of mental health medication, two 30-minute or one 60-minute therapy session per month, and unlimited access to member support for $245 a month.
User Satisfaction  

Wellnite had a 75% user satisfaction rating for its psychiatry services on our user survey. Clients were thrilled with the quality of care prescribers offered. Forty-seven percent stated their prescriber is responsive to their questions and medication needs, 44% stated they feel like their doctor cares about their well-being, and 36% appreciated that their prescriber was available when they need them. Fifty-five percent of users have needed their medication adjusted two to three times.

Best for Anxiety : LiveHealth Online


  • Price: $80-95 per therapy session; $175 or less for an initial psychiatry session; $75 per follow-up
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Children's Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

LiveHealth Online specializes in treating anxiety with both psychiatry and talk therapy and prioritizes taking insurance while still offering affordable out-of-pocket fees. 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Free app

  • Affordable session fees

  • Website is informative and easy to navigate

Cons
  • Can take weeks to see a provider

  • No psychiatry for children and teens available

  • Providers are lacking in diversity

Overview 

LiveHealth Online is a telehealth platform providing medical, psychological, and psychiatry services. Founded in 2013, LiveHealth Online is owned by Health Management Corporation, which is a subsidiary of the insurance company Anthem. Therefore, it prioritizes in-network coverage for Anthem members, but is also in-network with a handful of other plans. It has an easy-to-navigate website where you can easily check your insurance coverage, browse its various services, and sign up rather swiftly. After signing up, you can browse provider profiles and, upon picking one who feels like a good match, you can schedule your first appointment with them. All providers have different availability, so while one may be available the next day, another may not be available for a month. 

LiveHealth Online specializes in treating anxiety and panic attacks as well as stress, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. All sessions are conducted via live video. LiveHealth Online providers can prescribe non-controlled substances as needed; as with most telehealth platforms, it is unable to provide prescriptions for controlled substances. While children ages 10 and up can access the company’s therapy services, its psychiatry services are only available for adults. Services are available in all 50 states.

Types of Insurance Accepted

Since LiveHealth Online is a subsidiary of Anthem, Anthem users can expect to have good luck receiving covered care. LiveHealth Online also accepts Amerigroup, Anthem Blue Cross, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, Empire Blue Cross, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Simply Healthcare Plans, and UniCare plans. On the company’s pricing page, you can check if your particular plan is accepted and receive a co-pay estimate.

Plans & Pricing 

All LiveHealth Online services are pay-per-session. An initial psychiatric evaluation costs $175 and all follow-ups are $75 if paying out-of-pocket. If you are seeking out therapy services, you can expect to pay $80 to see a therapist and $95 to see a psychologist. No free consultations or assessments are offered.

User Satisfaction  

Nearly half (46%) of users we surveyed sought LiveHealth Online psychiatry services specifically for anxiety. Eighty-nine percent were pleased with their prescriber’s qualifications and another 83% were impressed with their prescriber’s bedside manner. When considering what they liked about their prescriber, 66% stated they felt their prescriber took the time to really listen to them, which can help assuage anxiety. In fact, our LiveHealth Online tester actually reported that she may choose to continue seeing her LiveHealth provider after testing the service, as she “found him to be particularly warm and friendly in comparison to clinicians on other therapy apps [she’d] used.”

Best for ADHD : Amwell


  • Price: $109 to $279
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

It can be challenging to receive ADHD medication through telehealth platforms. However, Amwell prioritizes collaborative psychiatry and will work with your primary care provider to get you the medicine you need, all while accepting a wide range of insurance plans.

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Prioritizes collaborative psychiatry

  • Quick sign-up process

  • Accepts over 40 insurance plans

Cons
  • Cannot view provider bios prior to sign-up

  • Website can be confusing

  • Provider availability can vary 

Overview 

Stimulant medications that are derived from amphetamine and methylphenidate, like Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta, are considered controlled substances and usually cannot be prescribed online. This can be unfortunate for those who are living with ADHD, since these medications are considered first-line treatment options. However, Amwell prioritizes collaborative psychiatry, meaning its psychiatrists will work with your primary care provider. Via shared session notes and test results plus secure voicemail for communication, your providers will be in touch on all aspects of your care. Should your psychiatrist believe you can benefit from a stimulant medication that cannot be prescribed online, they will recommend your primary care provider prescribe it to you. 

Signing up for Amwell services is easy. You’ll follow the website’s call-to-action to get started, create an account, and then browse provider profiles until you find the best match. Once you’ve selected the provider you’d like to work with, you can view their availability. Availability varies widely by provider—some have sessions open the next day while others may not have any available slots for a month. While we appreciate the ease of use, it may not be the best for all parties. For example, those who are experiencing suicidal ideation or are in a crisis may not be properly screened prior to seeking telehealth services. Since telehealth services aren’t appropriate for those experiencing suicidal ideation or crisis, this lack of intake paperwork isn’t completely ethically sound. 

Currently, Amwell only offers psychiatry services for adults. The initial intake session is 45 minutes long and all subsequent sessions are 15 minutes long. Providers are able to prescribe non-controlled substances. Sessions are held via live video and you can download Amwell's app if you prefer to use your phone to manage your care. Services are available in all 50 states.

Types of Insurance Accepted

A huge benefit of seeking care through Amwell is the range of insurance plans it accepts: Over 40 plans from Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and more. You can check your insurance plan benefits when signing up for the platform—we love this approach because it ensures there are no surprises prior to commencing treatment.

Plans & Pricing 

Amwell does not list out-of-pocket costs on the website, and in-network prices vary depending on location and provider. Amwell does not offer free consultations or assessments.

User Satisfaction  

About a quarter of users surveyed sought Amwell’s telepsychiatry services for ADHD support. Users gave Amwell’s psychiatry services feedback excells, with 91% of users surveyed rating it good, very good, or excellent. Over half (61%) were impressed with how available their prescriber was, stating they are available when they need them. Another 39% stated they appreciated how responsive their prescriber was to their questions and medication needs. 

Best for Bipolar Disorder : LifeStance Health


  • Price: $150-$300 per session out-of-pocket
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Children's Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

Bipolar disorder is a highly stigmatized mental health condition for which it can be challenging to receive adequate treatment. LifeStance Health has psychiatric providers who specialize in treating this complex disorder while still accepting insurance. 

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Offers children’s psychiatry

  • Diverse providers

  • Wide range of services offered

Cons
  • Isn’t transparent with pricing

  • Isn’t available in all 50 states

  • Website can be overwhelming

Overview 

LifeStance Health is a telehealth platform offering a wide range of mental health services, including psychiatry. We appreciate its attentive focus on specific mental health disorders, including bipolar disorders. It even notes how stigmatized bipolar disorders are on its extensive bipolar disorder information page, offering a sense of empathy and care to psychiatry seekers. It is mindful of setting expectations for what one may experience when seeking care for bipolar disorder, explaining how the diagnostic process works, illuminating the possibility of co-occurring diagnoses, and breaking down the various subtypes of bipolar. 

LifeStance Health providers include psychiatrists, doctors of osteopathic medicine, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Appointments are facilitated through live video and last about 40 minutes. Sessions are available for both children and adults—this is especially important, as bipolar disorder typically begins to present during the teenage years and early adulthood, though it can show up in children under some circumstances as well. Having providers on staff who can treat underage individuals experiencing bipolar symptoms sets this service apart from others included on this list. LifeStance Health isn’t available in all 50 states just yet; you can check to see if it is available in your area using the location finder tool.

Types of Insurance Accepted

LifeStance Health is in-network with plans from over 50 companies, including major networks like Anthem, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, and Humana. It is also in-network with some Medicaid and Medicare plans.

Plans & Pricing 

LifeStance Health falters when it comes to transparency in pricing. It is a pay-per-session pricing model, but there is nowhere on the website that states pricing for out-of-pocket services. Even when booking an appointment, you are prompted to create an account and begin intake paperwork before viewing any pricing. We even researched some of the providers on Psychology Today's directory and none had their price range listed on their profile. While we understand the majority of fees will range based on insurance, this lack of information is frustrating for those who are paying out-of-pocket and serves as a major deterrent. Our research team was able to find out that the initial psychiatry appointments usually cost $200 to $300 without insurance, and additional sessions run $150 to $250. However, pricing depends on the provider you select and insurance.

User Satisfaction  

Of all 105 LifeStance Health users surveyed, 26% were seeking treatment for bipolar disorder. Over half of users (53%) appreciated how responsive LifeStance Health providers are when it comes to their questions and medication needs. Forty-four percent felt it was easy to speak to their provider about presenting symptoms and how they’re feeling and another 46% stated their prescriber was available when needed. Our tester, who took part in a psychiatric intake appointment, reported that “the session went great. I would definitely see this provider again,” which speaks to the high level of services LifeStance can provide. 

Best for Postpartum Depression : Doctor on Demand


  • Price: $129-$179 per session
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

The postpartum period can be a challenging and misunderstood time. Doctor on Demand specializes in postpartum psychiatry, supporting you in receiving safe and non-judgmental care while remaining in-network with many major insurance plans.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Transparent pricing

  • Available in all 50 states

  • Easy sign-up process

Cons
  • Website isn’t the easiest to navigate

  • Have to create an account to check insurance benefits

Overview 

Postpartum depression is a common mental health condition impacting 10 to 15% of birthing people annually. Yet, there can be shame in reaching out for help, with some parents fearing psychiatric medication will harm their baby if they are breastfeeding and others feeling challenged by scheduling difficulties. This underscores the importance of receiving care from a provider that specializes in postpartum depression and can sensitively address these concerns. Doctor on Demand achieves this by offering care to those suffering from postpartum depression with providers that have an average of 15 years of experience, offer evening and weekend appointments, and accept their insurance.

All appointments are held via live video, with the initial psychiatric evaluation lasting 45 minutes and all subsequent appointments lasting 15 minutes. We appreciate the platform’s transparency in pricing and the easy sign-up process. However, the website can be a bit overwhelming to navigate. Providers are able to prescribe non-controlled substances, but the platform encourages collaborative care. Since collaborative care involves your primary care doctor, it is possible to access controlled substances if your psychiatrist recommends it to your primary care doctor as part of your treatment. Doctor on Demand is available in all 50 states.

Types of Insurance Accepted

Doctor on Demand does not provide a full list of insurance plans accepted on its website, nor do its customer service agents when you call the company directly. However, you can easily check if your insurance is accepted on the website and it is in-network with major plans like Cigna, Aetna, Humana, and some Medicare plans. If your insurance is accepted, you will be shown your co-pay cost before booking an appointment. 

Plans & Pricing 

All services are pay-per-session. If seeing a psychiatrist without using your insurance benefits, you can expect to pay $299 for an initial 45-minute consultation and $129 for 15-minute follow-up sessions. If you decide you’d like to seek out therapy services, you can see a psychologist and pay $129 for a 25-minute session and $179 for a 50-minute session. Doctor on Demand does not offer any free consultations or assessments.

User Satisfaction  

Doctor on Demand’s psychiatry services had an overall 84% satisfaction rating among the users we surveyed. Fifteen percent of those surveyed were experiencing postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Over half (52%) of users had to have their medication adjusted just once, with 58% of those clients stating they initiated the medication adjustment. This speaks to the skill of Doctor on Demand prescribers and their ability to take feedback from their clients.

Best for Substance Use Disorder : Mindful Care


  • Price: $49 per month for substance abuse; Individual therapy: $50 for 20-minute sessions; $100 for 40-minute sessions; $35 per group session; $75-$175 for psychiatry session
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

Substance use disorder requires a particular form of psychiatric care that not all companies offer. However, Mindful Care has an entire treatment department dedicated to helping those suffering from substance use heal, all while accepting insurance. 

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Offers specific treatment for substance use disorder

  • Affordable out-of-pocket costs

  • Accepts Medicare and Medicaid

Cons
  • Not available in all states

  • Not available for minors

Overview 

In 2021 alone, 20.4 million Americans were diagnosed with substance use disorder. Out of that 20.4 million, only 10% were able to receive treatment for it. These startling statistics speak to the high need for proper psychiatric care for those struggling with addiction. Mindful Care offers a dynamic treatment program called Mindful Recovery, designed with those struggling with substance use in mind. The program includes individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment, plus a care navigator to help you throughout the process. If that isn’t quite what you’re looking for, you can access psychiatry treatments alone. Mindful Care’s psychiatric providers can prescribe medications that support individuals in healing from substance use and opioid use, including buprenorphine, an FDA-approved treatment for opioid dependence. 

All sessions are held through live video. An initial psychiatric evaluation is 40 minutes long and follow-ups are 20 minutes long. If you opt for therapy as part of your treatment, you can choose from 20- or 40-minute long individual sessions or 60-minute long group sessions. Same-day appointments are prioritized and while wait times can be longer, the company works to get clients seen within 48 hours. With the exception of buprenorphine, Mindful Care can only prescribe non-controlled substances. Services are only available in Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Michigan.

Types of Insurance Accepted

Across the six states Mindful Care operates in, it accepts a total of 33 insurance plans. These include plans from major companies like Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, Medicaid, Optum, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. When scheduling an appointment, you will be required to submit a copy of your health insurance card to have your benefits verified. If your insurance is not accepted, you will be notified prior to booking an appointment.

Plans & Pricing 

All services are pay-per-session. An initial psychiatric evaluation costs $175 and follow-ups are $75 if paying out-of-pocket. If you’d like to pursue therapy, an initial evaluation session costs $150. Subsequent sessions that are 40 minutes long cost $100 and 20-minute sessions cost $50. Group therapy sessions are 60 minutes long and cost $35.  

User Satisfaction  

Mindful Care’s psychiatry services saw 91% of those surveyed giving it a positive rating of good, very good, or excellent. Eighty-two percent were impressed by their provider’s qualifications and 84% appreciated their prescriber’s bedside manner. Eighty-six percent would recommend Mindful Care’s medication management services to someone like them.

Best for Controlled Substance Prescriptions : Circle Medical


  • Price: $100 to $149
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes
  • Type Of Therapy: Individual Therapy, Medication Management
Why We Chose It 

It can be nearly impossible to find a telehealth provider that can prescribe controlled substances. However, Circle Medical is one of the few telehealth platforms that will prescribe them when appropriate, while remaining in-network with a variety of insurance plans.

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Can prescribe controlled substances

  • Affordable out-of-pocket fees

Cons
  • Not available in all states

  • Unable to see Medicaid/Medi-Cal clients

Overview 

Some conditions, like anxiety or ADHD, can call for medications that are classified as controlled substances. Unfortunately, many telehealth platforms are unable to prescribe controlled substances because of the high level of oversight needed, as these medications can become habit-forming. Some opt to work around this issue by offering collaborative care where the platform’s psychiatrist will recommend the client’s primary care provider writes a prescription for the controlled substance. While that can be helpful, it can also feel like an additional step for those who are simply seeking help. We love that Circle Medical is able to prescribe controlled substances when appropriate. Additionally, it has a wide range of services, including primary care, therapy, and psychiatry, all potentially covered by in-network insurance plans. 

The Circle Medical website specifically focuses on ADHD, anxiety, and depression when speaking to the mental health conditions it treats. Keep in mind that this means the platform isn’t a fit for some concerns like bipolar disorder or obsessive compulsive disorder. Appointments are held through live video, though you can also opt to receive in-person services. Additionally, psychiatry services are only available for adults, which may be a drawback for parents who are seeking care for their children. The initial evaluation appointments are 30 minutes and follow-up appointments are 20 minutes. Services are currently available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C.

Types of Insurance Accepted

Circle Medical is in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of California, Cigna, Health Net, Humana and UnitedHealthCare PPO plans. Some HMO plans for Bay Area residents are also accepted. Unfortunately, Circle Medical cannot see anyone who has Medicaid/Medi-Cal, even if they plan on paying out-of-pocket. Verifying co-pay costs is super easy: Download the Circle Medical app and simply scan your insurance card to see if you’re in-network and get co-pay estimates. 

Plans & Pricing 

Circle Medical has a pay-per-session model and doesn’t charge any subscription or membership fees. Co-pay costs vary based on insurance, but usually range from $5 to $50. Those who are paying out-of-pocket and are seeking treatment for ADHD will pay $149 for the first appointment, $100 for the second appointment, and $100 for an annual wellness exam (if deemed necessary). The initial psychiatric evaluation appointments are 30 minutes long and follow-ups are 20 minutes long. Treatment for anxiety and depression is $100 per appointment, regardless of whether it is an intake or follow-up appointment. Circle Medical does not offer free assessments or consultations.

User Satisfaction  

Thirty percent of Circle Medical users surveyed sought care for ADHD, 40% needed support for anxiety, and 29% received treatment for depression. Fifty-seven percent of Circle Medical users surveyed stated their prescriber is available when they need them. Seventy-three percent felt their prescriber took their time to really listen to them.

Best for Marginalized Communities : Alma


  • Price: Depends on therapist
  • Is Insurance Accepted?: Yes. Some therapists accept insurance but not all
  • Type Of Therapy: Children's Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Teen Counseling
Why We Chose It 

If you’re someone with a marginalized identity, like a person of color or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, look no further than Alma. Alma is an online database of diverse mental health professionals who are in-network with various insurance plans. 

Pros & Cons 
Pros
  • Thousands of providers listed

  • Available in all 50 states

  • Wide range of providers with diverse identities

Cons
  • Pricing varies by provider and insurance plan

  • Website lacks focus on psychiatry services

Overview 

The mental health field can lack diversity, leading to potential clients feeling disillusioned when it comes to seeking out care from someone who looks like them. However, Alma prioritizes working with clinicians of varying racial and gender identities who happen to take insurance. Functioning as a directory featuring therapists and psychiatrists in all 50 states, this platform makes finding affordable healthcare easy. You can opt to receive services either in-person or via live video. You can also search for providers that offer a mix of the two, a unique feature we haven’t seen offered on other platforms. 

Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners are listed on the website. Searching for a provider is easy. After entering your ZIP code, type of service you’re seeking, insurance information, and if you’d like your sessions to be online or in-person, you’ll be shown your search results. Each provider profile has a large photo, bio, information on insurance plans they accept, and dollar signs indicating the fee range. We love the last detail—transparency in pricing, even for those who are in-network with insurance, can help alleviate some of the stress that can arise in the search for psychiatric care. Since this is a directory, the length of session, fees, and types of medication prescribed will vary by provider. Luckily, it is easy to book a free consultation directly through the platform. 

Types of Insurance Accepted

Alma partners with Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford Health Plans, and UnitedHealthcare, meaning any Alma provider takes at least one of those insurance plans. However, providers may also be credentialed with additional health plans. You can filter your search based on insurance plan. You can receive a cost estimate by using Alma's insurance verification tool. 

Plans & Pricing 

There is no subscription or membership fee required for those seeking care through Alma. Pricing will vary based on insurance coverage and provider. If you are paying out-of-pocket, you can see the provider’s price range on their profile. Out-of-pocket psychiatry fees for Alma providers generally range from $140 to over $260 per session, and some providers offer sliding scale fees. Alma providers offer free consultations.

User Satisfaction  

Eighty-four percent of the 180 Alma users we surveyed were pleased with their experience and 83% felt there was a good amount of providers to choose from in their area. Eighty-eight percent praised Alma’s overall helpfulness at connecting them to a therapist and 77% would recommend the platform to a friend. Fourteen percent of users were specifically seeking psychiatry services through Alma.

Compare the Best Online Psychiatry That Takes Insurance of 2023

Best For
Price
Is Insurance Accepted?
Does it Accept HSA/FSA?
Type Of Therapy
Communication Options
Reset All
Talkiatry Best for Inclusive Care Depends on your insurance Yes. Yes. BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Tricare, Medicare, and others Yes Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry Video Chat Learn More
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Brightside Best for Talk Therapy and Psychiatry $95-$349 per month Yes Yes Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry Messaging, Video Chat Learn More
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Thriveworks Best Flexible Scheduling Session rate varies by provider; starts at $99 per session Yes Yes Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Audio, Phone, Video Chat Learn More
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Wellnite Best for Multiple Diagnoses $95 per month (charged bi-weekly) for medication management only; $450 per month for regular therapy sessions; $245 per month for medication management and 1-2 monthly therapy Yes No Individual Therapy, Medication Management Live Chat, Phone, Video Chat Learn More
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LiveHealth Online Best for Anxiety $80-95 per therapy session; $175 or less for an initial psychiatry session; $75 per follow-up Yes Yes Children's Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Video Chat Learn More
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Amwell Best for ADHD $109 to $279 Yes Yes Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Video Chat Learn More
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LifeStance Health Best for Bipolar Disorder $150-$300 per session out-of-pocket Yes Yes Children's Therapy, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Video Chat Learn More
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Doctor on Demand Best for Postpartum Depression $129-$179 per session Yes Yes Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Audio, Video Chat Learn More
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Mindful Care Best for Substance Use Disorder $49 per month for substance abuse; Individual therapy: $50 for 20-minute sessions; $100 for 40-minute sessions; $35 per group session; $75-$175 for psychiatry session Yes No Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen Counseling Audio, Video Chat Learn More
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Circle Medical Best for Controlled Substance Prescriptions $100 to $149 Yes No Individual Therapy, Medication Management N/A Learn More
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Alma Best for Marginalized Communities Depends on therapist Yes. Some therapists accept insurance but not all No Children's Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Teen Counseling Audio, Messaging, Phone, Video Chat Learn More
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Final Verdict

While we are confident in each of the platforms provided on this list, we love Talkiatry for being both an inclusive online psychiatry service and for its commitment to accepting a broad range of insurance carriers. Focusing exclusively on those with insurance, we appreciate that it provides culturally sensitive care and serves a wide range of mental health concerns. Additionally, both children and adolescents can benefit from Talkiatry’s services, which sets it apart from most other online psychiatry companies.

Talkiatry is in-network with 29 different insurance companies, which is fantastic. However, if you’re noticing your insurance isn’t accepted, try Amwell. It is in-network with over 40 plans, expanding your chances of getting your care covered.

Guide to Choosing the Best Online Psychiatry That Takes Insurance 

How to Compare Online Psychiatry Companies That Accept Insurance

There are various factors to consider when deciding which online psychiatry service is best for you. These include:

  • Price: Pricing can vary based on provider and insurance plan. Before beginning to seek out care, consider putting together a budget. Looking at your monthly financial responsibilities, see how much you could reasonably afford to pay towards your mental healthcare each month. Don’t be discouraged if it isn’t much—depending on your insurance plan, you may have much of your care covered.
  • Diagnosis: Not all platforms are alike. Some specialize in treating certain conditions, like bipolar disorder or substance use. Others cannot prescribe controlled substances, which can be essential in care for concerns like ADHD. It is okay if you don’t have a diagnosis yet. Take into account what your goals are for seeking psychiatric support and review each website to see if those concerns are addressed during treatment.
  • Scheduling: Take a look at your schedule and consider when you might be able to meet with a provider. Some people may need evening or weekend appointments. Luckily, plenty of telehealth platforms can accommodate that.
  • Location: Clinicians can only provide care in the state in which they are licensed. Pay close attention to the state platform services when seeking out care to ensure you’re within their service area.
  • Method of therapy: Some online mental healthcare providers offer audio, text messaging, or chat-based sessions. However, all platforms on this list offer video sessions. Video sessions offer the opportunity for a psychiatrist to fully assess how you present, thus allowing them to make the most accurate diagnosis possible. 
  • Ease of switching providers: It can take some time to find a provider that feels like a good fit. When signing up with a platform, don’t hesitate to ask what the process is for switching providers.
  • Medications available: Be aware that while providers at telehealth platforms can prescribe non-controlled substances, many cannot prescribe controlled substances. If your provider recommends a controlled substance but cannot prescribe it, ask if they’re open to collaborative care. This is a treatment modality where they communicate with your primary care doctor and recommend they prescribe the controlled substance. 

Why Is It Beneficial to Have Mental Healthcare Covered by Insurance?

Mental healthcare can have exorbitant costs. Additionally, mental health disorders typically require ongoing care, only adding to the high costs. If you’re feeling wary of seeking out mental healthcare, you’re not alone and you don't have to suffer. “A common myth surrounding psychiatric diagnoses is that something is wrong with us,” subject matter expert Nicolas Hardy, PhD, LCSW, told Health. He explained that there are various factors that can contribute to a psychiatric diagnosis which happen to be outside of any one individual’s control, like early childhood experiences or genetic influences. 

Using insurance to fund your mental healthcare can help minimize any stress associated with seeking out care. Additionally, it can help narrow down your options. When searching for a provider with broad specifications, you may feel overwhelmed. However, dialing in your search by the insurance they accept, the issues they specialize in, and their location can help simplify the process. 

What Are the Requirements for Insurance to Cover Online Psychiatry Services? 

Insurance companies require a diagnosis to cover psychiatry services. This may feel off-putting to some, but a diagnosis is a way providers can develop a framework for your treatment. When a clinician provides a diagnosis, it means they have identified that your symptoms fit within a general theme that has a name. This diagnosis then has a treatment protocol, which helps providers narrow down which medications may be effective. Additionally, a diagnosis lets an insurance company know that your treatment is medically necessary, thus allowing them to cover all or part of your treatment costs. 

Still feeling wary of a diagnosis? We understand. “A psychiatric diagnosis may make access to mental healthcare easier through your insurance company, but it is also a permanent part of your health history, which can understandably make some people nervous,” subject matter expert and licensed social worker Hannah Owens, LMSW, told Health. However, our health histories can change and diagnoses can be updated, Owens said. The same way cancer can go into remission, so can mental health disorders. She also suggested weighing the pros and cons. “If adding a mental health diagnosis will make it easier to receive the care you need, weigh that against the fact that this diagnosis will be visible to your healthcare team going forward.” 

Who Is Online Psychiatry Right For? 

Online psychiatry is a great fit for those who are noticing their mental health symptoms are interfering with their daily life and who are not seeing results with talk therapy. Therapy and lifestyle adjustments (i.e. exercise, decreasing substance use, addressing any life stressors) can be of great help in decreasing mental health symptoms. But, sometimes it isn’t enough and there is no shame in that. In fact, psychiatry exists to help you get all the support you need.

“Generally speaking, I believe a psychiatrist should be introduced into the equation when an individual is continuing to experience symptoms of a diagnosis despite behavioral and cognitive adjustments,” said Hardy. If you’re worried about side effects from mental health medications, keep in mind that everyone reacts to medication differently. Additionally, it is important to select a psychiatrist you feel you can be open and honest with, empowering you to let them know if you’re having troubling side effects. 

What If I'm Having Thoughts of Harming Myself? 

If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, refrain from using telehealth services and seek out immediate crisis support. You can call 988 to be connected to emergency mental health resources in your area. Be aware that if it is determined your life is in danger, this hotline may utilize strategies that involve sending emergency care to your location. Additionally, you can head to your nearest emergency room to receive immediate psychiatric support. You can also text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 for help.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the Difference Between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist or Therapist?

    A psychiatrist is a board-certified doctor that can prescribe medication and provide mental health diagnoses. A psychologist is a mental health professional who has a doctorate degree and completed clinical work as part of their education. A therapist can be a clinical social worker, marriage and family therapist, or clinical counselor. Therapists also are required to complete clinical work as part of their education and training. Psychologists can also diagnose patients with mental health conditions. Therapists cannot. However, both can refer patients to psychiatrists.

  • How Soon Can You See an Online Psychiatrist?

    How quickly you can see an online psychiatrist will vary based on the platform. Thriveworks and Mindful Care both prioritize same day appointments, though that may vary based on clinician availability. With other platforms, like LiveHealth Online, it can take weeks to see a provider. With this in mind, online psychiatry isn’t a fit for those who are in crisis and need immediate care. 

  • Who Will Treat Me at an Online Psychiatry Service?

    In addition to psychiatrists, many online psychiatry services employ other health professionals who are also licensed to diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and help when you need to adjust medication. These include psychiatric nurse practitioners and physician assistants.

  • Do Online Psychiatry Services Accept Medicaid or Medicare?

    Some online psychiatry services accept Medicaid and Medicare, though this will vary based on the platform you’re using and the state you reside in. Check out Talkiatry, Mindful Care, and Doctor on Demand if you need a platform that accepts Medicaid or Medicare.

Methodology

To curate our list of the best online therapy providers, we thoroughly researched 55 different online therapy platforms and surveyed at least 105 users from each company. We also researched 25 online therapy directories with 180 users surveyed. We paid close attention to the quality of care received, costs of services, and specializations of each platform and resources offered. The highest priority was given to platforms that accepted insurance and offered unique specializations, like prescribing controlled substances or providing LGBTQIA+ affirming psychiatry. 

Young Man Online Psychiatry

Olga Serba / EyeEm / Getty Images

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  3. Martinez-Raga J, Ferreros A, Knecht C, de Alvaro R, Carabal E. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder medication use: factors involved in prescribing, safety aspects and outcomes. Ther Adv Drug Saf. 2017;8(3):87-99. doi:10.1177/2042098616679636

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