Psychiatry focuses on medication for mental health conditions. Unlike therapists, psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who can prescribe medications. Many people benefit from combining therapy with medication—often called "split treatment" when you see different providers for each.
What Can Be Prescribed Online?
Commonly Prescribed via Telehealth
Non-Controlled
- • SSRIs (Zoloft, Lexapro, Prozac)
- • SNRIs (Effexor, Cymbalta)
- • Wellbutrin (bupropion)
- • Buspar (buspirone)
- • Hydroxyzine
- • Mood stabilizers
Controlled (Restricted)
- • Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin)*
- • Benzodiazepines (limited)*
- • Suboxone (for addiction)
*Policies vary by platform and state. Some require in-person eval first.
Platforms Offering Online Psychiatry
Talkspace
InsurancePsychiatry add-on to therapy. Accepts many insurance plans. Non-controlled medications.
Read review →Cerebral
InsuranceTherapy + medication management. 78% use insurance. Non-controlled meds. Starts ~$29/month with insurance.
Read review →Brightside
InsuranceSpecializes in anxiety/depression. Strong clinical outcomes. Therapy + medication.
Read review →Done
ADHD FocusSpecializes in ADHD. Can prescribe stimulants in many states. ~$199/month cash.
Talkiatry
InsurancePsychiatry-only platform. Accepts most major insurance. Full range of medications including controlled.
How It Works
- 1 Initial evaluation (45-60 min): Discuss symptoms, history, goals. Psychiatrist determines if medication is appropriate.
- 2 Prescription sent electronically to your pharmacy (or mailed from platform pharmacy).
- 3 Follow-up visits (15-30 min) every 1-3 months to assess response, adjust dosage, manage side effects.
Psychiatrist vs. Prescribing NP/PA
Many online platforms use psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) instead of psychiatrists. These providers can prescribe medications and are supervised by psychiatrists. For straightforward cases (depression, anxiety), this works well. For complex cases (bipolar, treatment-resistant conditions), you may want an actual psychiatrist.
Costs
With Insurance
- • Initial eval: $0-$50 copay
- • Follow-ups: $0-$40 copay
- • Medications: varies by formulary
Cash Pay
- • Initial eval: $200-$400
- • Follow-ups: $100-$200
- • Subscription models: $85-$250/month
The Bottom Line
Online psychiatry has made medication management far more accessible. You can get evaluated, receive prescriptions, and have ongoing follow-up care without leaving home. Most non-controlled medications are available; controlled substances are more restricted but increasingly accessible through specialized platforms.
If you're considering medication, look for platforms that accept your insurance and offer the specific medications you might need. Many people do best with both therapy and medication—some platforms offer both, or you can combine services.