Looking for a Psychiatrist? Try One of These 9 Best Online Psychiatry Services

Finding a psychiatrist when you need one can feel like an impossible task. Approximately half of all U.S. counties don’t have any psychiatrists,and a study of more than 500 Affordable Care Act Marketplace networks found that only about 43% of psychiatrists were in-network with insurance plans.What’s more, a May 2023 study found that only 19% of psychiatrists were accepting new patients and among those, the median wait time for an appointment was 67 days.Online psychiatry companies are stepping up to fill this huge gap in care. These services offer access to a largenetwork ofpre-vetted, highly qualified psychiatrists, many of whom accept insurance.To help identify the best online psychiatry services out there, we tasked testers, experts, and our research team to put these companies to the test. Wesurveyed over 8,000 users at 82 online mental health companies and directories,had testers sign up for the services for at least a month, hadthree licensed therapists help us evaluate each company,and sent out questionnaires to each company. Given the variety of features and options on our list of top picks, we hope to take the sting out of finding high-quality, timely psychiatry.

To help identify the best online psychiatry services out there, we tasked testers, experts, and our research team to put these companies to the test. Wesurveyed over 8,000 users at 82 online mental health companies and directories,had testers sign up for the services for at least a month, hadthree licensed therapists help us evaluate each company,and sent out questionnaires to each company. Given the variety of features and options on our list of top picks, we hope to take the sting out of finding high-quality, timely psychiatry.

9 Best Online Psychiatry ServicesBest for Availability:Teladoc HealthBest for Alcohol Use Disorder:MonumentBest for Anxiety and Depression:BrightsideBest for Medication Management:TalkiatryBest for Patient Support:TalkspaceBest for Ease of Use:ThriveworksBest for Flexible Scheduling:Doctor on DemandBest for Budget:LiveHealth OnlineBest for Provider Options:MDLIVE

82Companies reviewed8,400Total users surveyed350Data points analyzedWe surveyed 100 users from 55 online therapy companies and 27 therapist directories to understand their experiences with these services. Then, we tested the services ourselves across multiple states, conducted comprehensive data collection research, and evaluated our results with the help of a licensed therapist.

82Companies reviewed8,400Total users surveyed350Data points analyzed

82Companies reviewed

Companies reviewed

8,400Total users surveyed

Total users surveyed

350Data points analyzed

Data points analyzed

Our Online Therapy MethodologyCurious about the extensive work we did to research and evaluate online therapy companies? Take a look at ouronline therapy methodology.

Our Online Therapy Methodology

Curious about the extensive work we did to research and evaluate online therapy companies? Take a look at ouronline therapy methodology.

Looking for a Psychiatrist? Try One of These 9 Best Online Psychiatry ServicesView AllLooking for a Psychiatrist? Try One of These 9 Best Online Psychiatry ServicesOur Top PicksTeladoc HealthMonumentBrightsideTalkiatryTalkspaceThriveworksDoctor on DemandLiveHealth OnlineMDLIVESee More (6)Compare ProvidersKey ConsiderationsAre Psychiatry Services Right for Me?Frequently Asked QuestionsMethodology

Looking for a Psychiatrist? Try One of These 9 Best Online Psychiatry ServicesView All

View All

Looking for a Psychiatrist? Try One of These 9 Best Online Psychiatry Services

Key Considerations

Are Psychiatry Services Right for Me?

Frequently Asked Questions

Methodology

Best for Availability:Teladoc Health

Price:Up to $119 per therapy session, $299 for initial psychiatry appointment and $129 per follow-upIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, PsychiatryLearn More

Teladoc Review

Learn More

Why We Chose It

Teladoc Health is the total package: It is highly accessible and easy to use, accepts insurance, and offers a broad network of well-qualified mental health providers. Among the 82 online mental health services we assessed, Teladoc stood out for its nationwide availability, flexible scheduling, acceptance of a high number of insurance plans, and incredibly high user approval ratings in our survey. With qualified therapists and psychiatrists available in all 50 states, appointments available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time, and mental health services available for ages 13 and up, Teladoc couldn’t be more available.

Pros & Cons

ProsEasy-to-use platformAppointments available 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET seven days a weekAvailable in all 50 statesLive video talk therapy also availableExcellent provider network with good availabilityProviders rated highly for caring, respectful attitudesCan participate in video appointments via app or websiteConsPsychiatry sessions can be costly without insurance coverageSame-day appointments may not be availableCannot see insurance plans accepted until sign-up

Easy-to-use platform

Appointments available 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET seven days a week

Available in all 50 states

Live video talk therapy also available

Excellent provider network with good availability

Providers rated highly for caring, respectful attitudes

Can participate in video appointments via app or website

ConsPsychiatry sessions can be costly without insurance coverageSame-day appointments may not be availableCannot see insurance plans accepted until sign-up

Psychiatry sessions can be costly without insurance coverage

Same-day appointments may not be available

Cannot see insurance plans accepted until sign-up

Our Testing

We had five people sign up for and test mental health services atTeladocfrom Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Texas. One thing we especially appreciated was Teladoc’s simple online scheduling system. It was much more user-friendly than the ones at other online providers we looked at. Access to both licensed psychotherapists and board-certified psychiatrists is available seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET—which is a much wider range of times than most other online mental health companies offer. Every provider had many open appointment slots when we tested them, and we could schedule months in advance if needed.We had great experiences overall: All of the mental healthcare providers we interacted with at Teladoc were highly qualified, compassionate, and professional. They were good listeners who offered thoughtful insight and actionable advice. However, in one case, the provider we selected kept the camera off for video sessions, which we found disappointing. Despite this, the conversation was comfortable, and there were good observations that were helpful.“Scheduling was simple and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to book something once registered. Sign-up was extremely easy and straightforward. They asked basic questions about my mental health and medical history, and before each session, you filled out a questionnaire about your mental state."—Teladoc tester, who sought treatment for anxietyA downside is that the wide availability of appointment times did not translate into being able to find appointments within a day or two. Plus, evening and weekend appointments were much more limited than options during standard business hours. But in general, we were able to schedule a visit with our providers of choice within a week. Also, Teladoc does not treat psychosis, substance use, or eating disorders. Like most online prescribers, Teladoc’s psychiatrists can’t prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax and Valium foranxiety disordersor Adderall forattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), so it is not ideal for people requiring those types of medications.

We had great experiences overall: All of the mental healthcare providers we interacted with at Teladoc were highly qualified, compassionate, and professional. They were good listeners who offered thoughtful insight and actionable advice. However, in one case, the provider we selected kept the camera off for video sessions, which we found disappointing. Despite this, the conversation was comfortable, and there were good observations that were helpful.

“Scheduling was simple and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to book something once registered. Sign-up was extremely easy and straightforward. They asked basic questions about my mental health and medical history, and before each session, you filled out a questionnaire about your mental state."—Teladoc tester, who sought treatment for anxiety

—Teladoc tester, who sought treatment for anxiety

A downside is that the wide availability of appointment times did not translate into being able to find appointments within a day or two. Plus, evening and weekend appointments were much more limited than options during standard business hours. But in general, we were able to schedule a visit with our providers of choice within a week. Also, Teladoc does not treat psychosis, substance use, or eating disorders. Like most online prescribers, Teladoc’s psychiatrists can’t prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax and Valium foranxiety disordersor Adderall forattention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), so it is not ideal for people requiring those types of medications.

Plans & Pricing

What Users Say

We surveyed 100 users of Teladoc:94% rated Teladoc as very good or excellent overall89% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent94% said that most or all of their needs were met at Teladoc98% are likely or very likely to recommend Teladoc to a friend or someone like them30% said they were using Teladoc for psychiatry or medication management services

We surveyed 100 users of Teladoc:

Best for Alcohol Use Disorder:Monument

Price:Starts at $15+ per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Group Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Peer SupportLearn More

ProsSpecialized focus on alcohol use disorderAll providers have experience treating substance use disordersAccepts many insurance plansWell-coordinated therapy and medication servicesAccess to therapist-moderated support groupsCan prescribe medications shown to be effective in treating alcohol dependence

Specialized focus on alcohol use disorder

All providers have experience treating substance use disorders

Accepts many insurance plans

Well-coordinated therapy and medication services

Access to therapist-moderated support groups

Can prescribe medications shown to be effective in treating alcohol dependence

No built-in referral network to inpatient rehab

Services not available in all states

Monumenttreats alcohol use disorder with medication and therapy, and while we could not assign someone to test out its medication services (we did not find it ethical to do so), we did test out the sign-up process and other aspects of the service, surveyed 100 users, extensively researched the company, and sought expert insight on it. Overall, we were impressed with Monument’s offerings and service model for AUD.

First of all, simply offering high-quality treatment online is a boon to patients with AUD. For those concerned with the stigma, it may prove easier to seek care online. Plus, online treatment reduces other barriers to care, such as transportation and childcare, and ensures that people in areas without in-person care options can still receive treatment. The $15 per month community membership also buys you access to therapist-moderated support groups and a 24/7 online community forum. There are support groups aimed at specific ages or identities, such as women, men, BIPOC people, LBGTQIA+ people, parents, or relatives, as well as topic-based groups such asmindfulness,codependency, andself-compassion.

Although Monument’s therapists can help with some co-existing disorders, such as anxiety or depression, which are common in people with substance use disorders,its providers cannot prescribe medications to treat those conditions. They also cannot treat any co-occurring use of other substances. We were dismayed that Monument’s website did not mention referrals to more intensive levels of service, such as residential or inpatient treatment. Monument is also not available nationwide. Currently, it is available to residents of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington state, and Washington, D.C. Still, for those interested in seeking medication, therapy, and group support for AUD, we recommend Monument as a solid care option.

We surveyed 100 users of Monument:84% rated Monument as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at Monument95% are likely or very likely to recommend Monument to a friend or someone like them23% said they were using Monument for medication management services

We surveyed 100 users of Monument:

Best for Anxiety and Depression:Brightside

Price:$95-$349 per monthIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication Management, PsychiatryLearn More

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in America, affecting approximately 30% of adults at some point in their lives.As for depression, nearly 17% of U.S. adults will experience depression during their lifetime.Brightside Health specializes in treating anxiety and depression and provides streamlined, coordinated treatment plans in all 50 states. Brightside stood out among the competition for its focus on tracking patient progress to ensure improvement. It has patients regularly fill out surveys to track their symptoms, allowing provider teams to see whether treatment is working or not and then make adjustments to medications or therapy approaches accordingly.

ProsCoordinated platform for therapy and psychiatry/medication managementPrimary focus on depression and anxietyAvailable in all 50 statesAccess video appointments on website or appUses evidence-based approaches of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medicationSays it covers 130 million Americans via health insuranceConsAdults only (18 and over)Provider is selected for youShort sessions

Coordinated platform for therapy and psychiatry/medication management

Primary focus on depression and anxiety

Access video appointments on website or app

Uses evidence-based approaches of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication

Says it covers 130 million Americans via health insurance

ConsAdults only (18 and over)Provider is selected for youShort sessions

Adults only (18 and over)

Provider is selected for you

Short sessions

We had four people test outBrightside Health’s mental health services from North Carolina, California, and New York, three different-sized markets in different areas of the country. One thing we liked about Brightside’s care model was that it offers coordinated psychiatry and psychotherapy services. What’s more, you can sign up for either service individually or purchase a bundle of both services at a discount. Treatment is targeted toward modalities and medications that address anxiety and depression, includingcognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), app-based exercises to use on your own, and symptom progress trackers.

“I live with anxiety and this year it was at its peak. After having panic attacks for the first time, I finally decided to try therapy. I like how convenient [Brightside] is in terms of scheduling, and being able to do it remotely allowed me (a busy working mom) to easily make time for this. So far, therapy has been helpful and I’m glad I gave it a shot."—Brightside Health tester, who sought treatment for anxiety

—Brightside Health tester, who sought treatment for anxiety

One of Brightside’s biggest weaknesses, though, is the short session length. After the initial psychiatric evaluation, follow-up psychiatry sessions are only 15 minutes long (although this is pretty common in online services). Therapy sessions tend to run 30 to 45 minutes (instead of 45 minutes to one hour at other services). In addition, controlled substances (such as Xanax or otherbenzodiazepines) are not prescribed, so for more severe or specific diagnoses that require them, Brightside may not be ideal.

We surveyed 100 users of Brightside:88% rated Brightside as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent93% said that most or all of their needs were met at Brightside99% are likely or very likely to recommend Brightside to a friend or someone like them21% said they were using Brightside for psychiatry or medication management services

We surveyed 100 users of Brightside:

Best for Medication Management:Talkiatry

Price:Depends on your insuranceIs Insurance Accepted?:Yes. BCBS, Optum, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Medicare, and othersType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication Management, PsychiatryLearn More

ProsTherapy and medication management offeredLonger session times than most other servicesBroad variety of diagnoses treatedTreats ages 5 and upNetwork of more than 300 psychiatristsCan prescribe controlled substancesAccepts insuranceConsOnly accepts patients via insuranceDoesn’t accept MedicaidNot available in Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wyoming

Therapy and medication management offered

Longer session times than most other services

Broad variety of diagnoses treated

Treats ages 5 and up

Network of more than 300 psychiatrists

Can prescribe controlled substances

Accepts insurance

ConsOnly accepts patients via insuranceDoesn’t accept MedicaidNot available in Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wyoming

Only accepts patients via insurance

Doesn’t accept Medicaid

Not available in Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wyoming

What impressed us most was Talkiatry’s long sessions. The service’s appointments are double the length of most other online mental health companies: Psychiatric intake sessions last 60 minutes and follow-up appointments last 30 minutes. We felt these longer sessions promoted a higher level of patient care because they gave us plenty of time to explain our situation and gave providers time to get all of the information they needed from us to form a complete picture of our mental health. We found the psychiatrists to be professional yet kind and conversational and we loved feeling like we had enough time to ask questions. Those positive experiences, coupled with the thorough sign-up process, made us feel confident about the appropriateness and personalization of the treatment plan that was provided.

When it came to finding a provider, we loved how Talkiatry asked what we were looking for, like if we preferred they specialize in a certain condition or have specific cultural knowledge or sensitivity. Then we could select a provider from a list of those with availability or peruse suggested matches.

One thing to be aware of with Talkiatry is that care is only available via health insurance—there is no self-pay option. Another downside is that the service is not available to residents of Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wyoming. Also, if you’re looking for same-day or next-day care, Talkiatry likely shouldn’t be your first choice: Most initial visits occur about a week from sign-up. But wait times to see an in-person psychiatrist are typically much longer, perhaps even several months, depending on your location.Talk therapy is also available on Talkiatry, but it requires a referral from one of its psychiatrists.

One area we had to investigate before recommending Talkiatry’s medication management services was its record of responsible prescribing practices. This is a particularly important concern when a service provides psychiatric care for young children. It’s not uncommon for telehealth companies to get into hot water for allegedly overprescribing certain psychiatric prescriptions.Given Talkiatry’s ability to prescribe controlled substances, such as stimulants for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or benzodiazepines for anxiety, we wanted to be especially prudent about assessing its provision of medications. Our research and testing show we can be confident about Talkiatry’s approach to medication and the appropriateness and general reliability of its prescribing practices. In our survey, three-quarters of Talkiatry users reported having between two and four appointments before being prescribed medication. This is good news since we prefer that psychiatrists see patients more than once before determining if medication is a good idea and which one might be the best fit.

Given Talkiatry’s ability to prescribe controlled substances, such as stimulants for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or benzodiazepines for anxiety, we wanted to be especially prudent about assessing its provision of medications. Our research and testing show we can be confident about Talkiatry’s approach to medication and the appropriateness and general reliability of its prescribing practices. In our survey, three-quarters of Talkiatry users reported having between two and four appointments before being prescribed medication. This is good news since we prefer that psychiatrists see patients more than once before determining if medication is a good idea and which one might be the best fit.

We surveyed 100 users of Talkiatry:86% rated Talkiatry as very good or excellent overall87% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent96% said that most or all of their needs were met at Talkiatry95% are likely or very likely to recommend Talkiatry to a friend or someone like them42% said they were using Talkiatry solely for psychiatry or medication management

We surveyed 100 users of Talkiatry:

Best for Patient Support:Talkspace

Price:$276 to $436 per month for therapy subscriptionsIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen CounselingLearn MoreGet $85 off your first month with codeVERYWELL85.

Price:$276 to $436 per month for therapy subscriptionsIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen CounselingLearn More

Get $85 off your first month with codeVERYWELL85.

ProsEasy to use, accessible platformTreats wide range of mental health diagnosesLarge network of providers available in most statesAsserts 150 million Americans can access service via insuranceCan participate in appointments via the app or websiteCan message providers between sessionsConsText-based therapy is not ideal for everyonePsychiatric services can be costly if you pay out-of-pocketProvider assigned to you from a small number of preselected choices

Easy to use, accessible platform

Treats wide range of mental health diagnoses

Large network of providers available in most states

Asserts 150 million Americans can access service via insurance

Can participate in appointments via the app or website

Can message providers between sessions

ConsText-based therapy is not ideal for everyonePsychiatric services can be costly if you pay out-of-pocketProvider assigned to you from a small number of preselected choices

Text-based therapy is not ideal for everyone

Psychiatric services can be costly if you pay out-of-pocket

Provider assigned to you from a small number of preselected choices

We had 11 people from across the country test outTalkspace, hailing from California, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, and South Dakota. Given its wide insurance coverage, ability to treat a wider range of conditions than other platforms, availability of both medication management and therapy services, and the ability to message providers between sessions, we think Talkspace is a great option.

“The app makes it very easy to access my account and access any messages my provider sends. I still prefer the sessions from my laptop, but I do find the app helpful and would recommend downloading it at the beginning."—Talkspace tester, who sought therapy after experiencing trauma

—Talkspace tester, who sought therapy after experiencing trauma

One thing of note that we found was that our second provider was often a better fit for our needs than the ones we were initially matched with. That wasn’t a problem given the many provider choices available to us and how easy it was to switch providers. Talkspace’s psychiatry fees are also higher than many other platforms and may be out of reach for many due to cost. And, like most telehealth services, Talkspace cannot prescribe controlled substances, so it may not be a great fit in certain cases.

We surveyed 100 users of Talkspace:92% rated Talkspace as very good or excellent overall89% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent95% said that most or all of their needs were met at Talkspace97% are likely or very likely to recommend Talkspace to a friend or someone like them19% said they were using Talkspace for psychiatry or medication management

We surveyed 100 users of Talkspace:

Read the FullTalkspace Online Therapy Review

Best for Ease of Use:Thriveworks

If you’re looking for an online mental health service with the convenience and ease of use of a large company, but the feel of a boutique private practice, look no further than Thriveworks. Many companies claim to offer a variety of services, but once you get to the website you can’t see how to sign up for that specific offering. At Thriveworks, things are straightforward and simple. Simply click on which service you need—psychiatry, individual therapy, family therapy, child therapy, or couples counseling—and you’ll see a list of providers and available appointment slots. Best of all, it doesn’t hide tons of info behind a member paywall, so you can peruse provider profiles, insurance details, prices, and appointment availability without signing up.

ProsWide range of appointment timesEasy schedulingCan see provider bios, prices, insurance info, and available appointments before sign-upCan choose your providerQ&A coach available 24/7Accepts most major insurance plansIndividual therapy for children and adults, couples therapy, and family therapy availableConsPsychiatry/medication management not available in all statesPlatform more disjointed when coordinating with med managementProviders for teen/child services not as plentiful as adult services

Wide range of appointment times

Easy scheduling

Can see provider bios, prices, insurance info, and available appointments before sign-up

Can choose your provider

Q&A coach available 24/7

Accepts most major insurance plans

Individual therapy for children and adults, couples therapy, and family therapy available

ConsPsychiatry/medication management not available in all statesPlatform more disjointed when coordinating with med managementProviders for teen/child services not as plentiful as adult services

Psychiatry/medication management not available in all states

Platform more disjointed when coordinating with med management

Providers for teen/child services not as plentiful as adult services

The five people who testedThriveworks—from Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Massachusetts, and New York— signed up for various services, including child therapy, adult therapy, and couples counseling. And although we did not test its psychiatry services specifically, the fact that one of the most common words in our testers’ reports of their Thriveworks experience was “easy” makes us confident that searching for a psychiatrist is also simple. From signing up, finding information on the website, and getting ahold of customer service to scheduling sessions, switching providers, or adding a psychiatrist to your care team—you name it, we found it easy.Therapy services are available to children (any age) and adults, while psychiatry services are available to anyone age 14 and up. We were impressed to find that most of the prescribers at Thriveworks are psychiatrists rather than general practitioners or physician’s assistants. Providers with specialized training in psychiatry are better equipped to diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe the appropriate medications. We feel confident that Thriveworks’ ease of use, coupled with its highly qualified providers, insurance acceptance, and range of appointment times make it a great choice for people who don’t want the task of finding the mental health care they need to turn into yet another complicated, time-consuming project.Our testers found that therapy appointments were often available within 48 hours, and Thriveworks asserts it will do its best to get you an appointment with a therapist within three to five days of signing up. As for psychiatry services, Thriveworks says most users can see a provider within seven days of signing up. We found that if you live in a larger state, you will likely be able to find an appointment within three to five days.One caveat is that the network of psychiatrists is smaller and more limited at Thriveworks than its network of therapists. We found that provider availability for adult therapy was much more robust than for psychiatry or child/teen services. In many areas, filtering our search for providers who offered teen/child therapy or psychiatry dramatically reduced our list of provider options.

Therapy services are available to children (any age) and adults, while psychiatry services are available to anyone age 14 and up. We were impressed to find that most of the prescribers at Thriveworks are psychiatrists rather than general practitioners or physician’s assistants. Providers with specialized training in psychiatry are better equipped to diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe the appropriate medications. We feel confident that Thriveworks’ ease of use, coupled with its highly qualified providers, insurance acceptance, and range of appointment times make it a great choice for people who don’t want the task of finding the mental health care they need to turn into yet another complicated, time-consuming project.

Our testers found that therapy appointments were often available within 48 hours, and Thriveworks asserts it will do its best to get you an appointment with a therapist within three to five days of signing up. As for psychiatry services, Thriveworks says most users can see a provider within seven days of signing up. We found that if you live in a larger state, you will likely be able to find an appointment within three to five days.

One caveat is that the network of psychiatrists is smaller and more limited at Thriveworks than its network of therapists. We found that provider availability for adult therapy was much more robust than for psychiatry or child/teen services. In many areas, filtering our search for providers who offered teen/child therapy or psychiatry dramatically reduced our list of provider options.

We surveyed 100 users of Thriveworks:88% rated Thriveworks as very good or excellent overall90% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent96% said that most or all of their needs were met at Thriveworks96% are likely or very likely to recommend Thriveworks to a friend or someone like them24% said they were using Thriveworks for psychiatry or medication management

We surveyed 100 users of Thriveworks:

Best for Flexible Scheduling:Doctor on Demand

Price:$129 - $299 per sessionIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen CounselingLearn More

Doctor on Demand is a large telehealth site that offers medical as well as mental healthcare services, including therapy and medication management. The company stood out among the 82 other services we assessed for having same-day and next-day appointments available in many areas, offering night and weekend appointments, and providing 24/7 coaching services. Doctor on Demand also boasts an impressively broad selection of highly qualified providers, high customer satisfaction ratings, and a collaborative care model that allows your therapist and psychiatrist to work together. Also notable is that the company offers treatment for a wide array of psychiatric diagnoses and can treat children as well as adults. With simple scheduling and acceptance of insurance, Doctor on Demand makes it easy to find affordable care quickly.

ProsEvening and weekend appointment times availableSame-day or next-day appointments may be available (depending on location)Mental health services available to children ages 1 to 17 (with guardian participation)Checks insurance coverage and shows your copay during sign-upAvailable nationwideCan schedule and participate in appointments via web portal or appConsCan be pricey if out of networkCan’t see list of accepted insurance plans until during sign-upMust create an account to see providers and appointment availability

Evening and weekend appointment times available

Same-day or next-day appointments may be available (depending on location)

Mental health services available to children ages 1 to 17 (with guardian participation)

Checks insurance coverage and shows your copay during sign-up

Available nationwide

Can schedule and participate in appointments via web portal or app

ConsCan be pricey if out of networkCan’t see list of accepted insurance plans until during sign-upMust create an account to see providers and appointment availability

Can be pricey if out of network

Can’t see list of accepted insurance plans until during sign-up

Must create an account to see providers and appointment availability

We testedDoctor on Demand’s teen psychiatry services and individual adult therapy services in Pennsylvania, as well as adult therapy in North Carolina. We sought treatment for anxiety as well as support with navigating difficult family dynamics, and overall we had positive experiences. We love that the service allows patients access to specialized care with insurance and offers appointments during a much wider timeframe than most other companies. And we found that psychiatrist appointment openings were far more plentiful than therapy sessions.

We love that Doctor on Demand fosters communication and collaboration among the members of your care team, a rarity at most large telehealth services. That means if you’re seeing both a therapist and a psychiatrist at the company, they work together to share notes about your case to improve the overall care you’re receiving.

When searching for a provider, we could filter the list of provider options based on their availability, specialty/focus area, gender, and language; however, one thing we didn’t like was that we couldn’t filter based on our preferences for provider race, religion, or sexuality. We were also concerned that there was nothing denoting “LGBTQIA+ ally” or “BIPOC cultural sensitivity” on provider bios. Explicitly designating themselves as culturally aware and/or queer-affirming is increasingly important for mental health providers. While we felt it was important for potential patients to be aware of these lacking features, please note that we have no reports of Doctor on Demand providers being intolerant, and the company backs up its commitment to diversity with data about the identities of its providers.

We surveyed 100 users of Doctor on Demand:88% rated Doctor on Demand as very good or excellent overall91% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent95% said that most or all of their needs were met at Doctor on Demand97% are likely or very likely to recommend Doctor on Demand to a friend or someone like them34% said they were using Doctor on Demand for psychiatry or medication management

We surveyed 100 users of Doctor on Demand:

Read the FullDoctor on Demand Online Therapy Review

Best for Budget:LiveHealth Online

Price:$85-100 per therapy session; $185 or less for an initial psychiatry session; $80 per follow-upIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Children’s Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Individual Therapy, Medication Management, Psychiatry, Teen CounselingLearn More

LiveHealth Online

One of the biggest barriers to mental health care is high out-of-pocket costs.That’s why we love LiveHealth Online. It offers one of the widest networks of highly qualified providers at one of the lowest costs, with an easy-to-use, comprehensive platform. After the initial $185 psychiatric intake appointment, follow-up visits with a psychiatrist are $80 each. These prices are less than half the national average for psychiatric care, which is around $500 for an initial session and $200 for follow-up sessions. Talk therapy sessions at LiveHealth Online cost $85 per visit with a therapist or $100 per visit with a psychologist, on the lower end of the national average cost. Even better, you don’t need to pay a membership fee or pre-pay for a large bundle of sessions.

ProsPer-visit out-of-pocket costs lower than most other servicesAvailable in all 50 statesCovers most common psychiatric conditionsAccepts insuranceTalk therapy also available for ages 10 and upCan schedule and participate in appointments via website or appLGBTQ-affirming providers denoted with “ally” rainbow flag on profileConsDoesn’t take as many insurance plans as some other companiesInitial psychiatry visit may be up to a two-week waitPsychiatric care only for ages 18 and up

Per-visit out-of-pocket costs lower than most other services

Covers most common psychiatric conditions

Talk therapy also available for ages 10 and up

Can schedule and participate in appointments via website or app

LGBTQ-affirming providers denoted with “ally” rainbow flag on profile

ConsDoesn’t take as many insurance plans as some other companiesInitial psychiatry visit may be up to a two-week waitPsychiatric care only for ages 18 and up

Doesn’t take as many insurance plans as some other companies

Initial psychiatry visit may be up to a two-week wait

Psychiatric care only for ages 18 and up

The fact that LiveHealth Online’s providers receive additional training on how to deliver care virtually really showed in our experience. It was clear that providers had experience and expertise in delivering mental health care online. This is a special skill that we have discovered not all online providers possess.

We had a mix of good and not-so-good experiences with LiveHealth Online’s services. We appreciated that at the beginning of appointments, therapists laid out clear expectations for the session and detailed their expertise and availability. While we found that most of our providers were helpful and easy to talk to, one used antiquated, offensive language concerning trans people despite being identified as an LGBTQIA+ ally on their profile.If you or someone you love is a member of this group, another site may be a better fit. Still, the low out-of-pocket prices at LiveHealth made it stand out as a good resource for those who cannot afford the usual exorbitant prices of psychiatric services. In addition, the app was easy to navigate and the in-app sound and video quality were great.

Evening and weekend appointments are available, and there is a provider on call 24/7 if you have an urgent issue or question, such as a problem with medication or side effects. Unfortunately, though, we found that it may take longer to get an appointment at LiveHealth Online than at some other telehealth services. The company states you should be able to find an appointment within 14 days. While that’s still a lot sooner than most in-person services, if you need care more quickly, another service might serve you better. The longer wait time likely reflects LiveHealth Online’s popularity with customers who appreciate the low cost of its services. If paying out of pocket, the affordability and overall quality make LiveHealth Online worth the wait. But, as with several other telehealth platforms, LiveHealth’s providers cannot prescribe controlled substances, so it is not ideal for people whose conditions may benefit from those medications.

90% rated LiveHealth Online as very good or excellent overall94% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent98% said that most or all of their needs were met at LiveHealth Online98% are likely or very likely to recommend LiveHealth Online to a friend or someone like them24% said they were using LiveHealth Online for psychiatry or medication management

Best for Provider Options:MDLIVE

Price:Up to $179 for therapy; up to $299 for psychiatryIs Insurance Accepted?:YesType Of Therapy:Individual Therapy, Medication ManagementLearn More

MDLIVE Logo

As one of the largest telehealth companies in the U.S., MDLIVE makes connecting with an experienced, credentialed prescriber much more convenient and accessible. MDLIVE is an easy-to-use telehealth platform offering comprehensive mental health services. MDLIVE stood out among the 82 companies we looked at for its abundance of well-vetted provider options across most of the country.

ProsChoose your provider from an easy-to-use directory based on profiles and availabilityAccessible services, including 24/7 customer supportMental health services available to ages 10 and upCan schedule and participate in appointments via website or appTransparent pricingCan message provider anytime in patient portalConsNo controlled substances prescribedFull list of accepted insurance plans not available until signing upMay have technical issues with video appointments

Choose your provider from an easy-to-use directory based on profiles and availability

Accessible services, including 24/7 customer support

Mental health services available to ages 10 and up

Transparent pricing

Can message provider anytime in patient portal

ConsNo controlled substances prescribedFull list of accepted insurance plans not available until signing upMay have technical issues with video appointments

No controlled substances prescribed

Full list of accepted insurance plans not available until signing up

May have technical issues with video appointments

For example, our testing found 24 therapists available in New York, with six of those having an open appointment within the next two days; California boasted an especially long list of providers (both therapists and psychiatrists), though the wait for appointments was closer to weeks than days.

Among the downsides we discovered at MDLIVE were technical issues with video sessions. During one of our sessions, the screen suddenly froze multiple times, then cut out before the appointment was supposed to be over. We also had some difficulties putting in insurance and having scheduled appointments disappear, which was frustrating. Another area of potential concern is whose interests the company prioritizes. Cigna now owns MDLIVE and insurance companies are known to guard their bottom line above all else. Given that, our experts felt users should be on alert for any behavior that seems to be prioritizing the concerns of the company over those of the patient. Like most telehealth services, MDLIVE does not prescribe controlled substances. In addition, the company does not treat certain conditions such as ADHD, acute psychosis, active substance use requiring detox, and moderate to severe autism.

88% rated MDLIVE as very good or excellent overall89% rated their therapist’s qualifications as very good or excellent100% said that most or all of their needs were met at MDLIVE97% are likely or very likely to recommend MDLIVE to a friend or someone like them24% said they were using MDLIVE for psychiatry or medication management

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Guide to Choosing the Best Online Psychiatry Service

Online psychiatry can be helpful if you live in a remote area with limited in-person providers, have a schedule that makes it difficult to fit in appointments, have difficulties leaving the house, or want a therapist with a specific identity that’s not common where you live. Choosing an online provider might also be helpful if you’re concerned you’ll need to switch psychiatrists or medications and are looking for support quickly.

Online psychiatry services are typically not intended for people in severe distress or crisis.

What If I’m Having Thoughts of Harming Myself?

Psychiatristsare physicians with medical training, (i.e., MD or DO degrees, which take four years to complete) as well as psychiatric residency training, which takes another four years. They can treat a wide array of mental health conditions and are trained to diagnose patients and treat them using both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Some specialize or have additional board certification in particular diagnoses (like mood and anxiety, alcohol use, or eating disorders) or age groups (like child/adolescent or geriatric). Online psychiatrists often cannot treat more severe mental health conditions or prescribe controlled substances. For these services, in-person psychiatry would be necessary.

People with different qualifications and training are also permitted to prescribe medications, such as primary care physicians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and, in a few states, psychologists. These other prescribers usually do not have the same amount of rigorous time and training regarding human physiology and pharmacology in combination with psychiatric expertise as psychiatrists, but some have sufficient experience to prescribe medications for routine or mild mental health conditions.

Even if the telehealth platform asserts it screens provider credentials, before making an appointment, you should conduct a quick online search to see whether they have an active medical license in your state, active board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and no signs of unusual medical board complaints or legal issues.

This depends on the psychiatrist and the platform. Some may screen and validate that your insurance is in-network ahead of time; others may not accept insurance upfront and make you do paperwork and send out-of-network bills instead, which can be time-consuming and have higher copays or fees. All of the telepsychiatry services listed in this roundup accept several health insurance plans.

How We Tested and Reviewed Online Therapy Services

We evaluated 82 onlinetherapy companiesandtherapist directoriesin order to compile this list.

Firsthand Experience

As part of our research, we signed up for talk therapy at all 55 online therapy companies we reviewed. We tested each company’s therapy services, and if the company offered other services (such as couples therapy and kid or teen therapy) we tested those too. Our testers are located all across the United States and abroad, meaning we have extensive information about each company’s services in a variety of areas.

User and Brand Surveys

In addition, we surveyed more than 8,000 therapy users: 100 at each of the 55 online therapy companies and the 27 therapist directories we tested. We collected over 100 different data points in which we asked users to evaluate each company’s services, from their therapist’s qualifications to whether they found a therapist who met all their needs to how they’d rate the company overall. We also sent questionnaires to each company we considered, asking for their perspectives on the services they provide, and we interviewed former patients and therapists at the companies where possible.

Research

Expert Recommendations

Once we completed this testing and these surveys, we evaluated our findings with the help of three licensed therapists—Amy Marschall, PsyD;Nic Hardy, PhD, LCSW; andHannah Owens, LMSW—in order to make our recommendations. These therapists provided extensive insight into the ethics and efficacy of online therapy as well as information about relevant therapeutic modalities and approaches.

VERY WELL MIND / Amelia Manley

Best Online Psychiatry Service

Article SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Beck AJ, Page C, Buche J, Rittman D, Gaiser M.Estimating the distribution of the U.S. psychiatric subspecialist workforce. University of Michigan School of Public Health: Behavioral Health Workforce Research Center.Zhu JM, Zhang Y, Polsky D.Networks in ACA marketplaces are narrower for mental health care than for primary care.Health Affairs. 2017;36(9):1624-1631. doi:10.1377/hlthaff.2017.0325Sun CF, Correll CU, Trestman RL, et al.Low availability, long wait times, and high geographic disparity of psychiatric outpatient care in the US.Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2023;84:12-17. doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.05.012National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics.Mintz CM, Hartz SM, Fisher SL, et al.A cascade of care for alcohol use disorder: Using 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data to identify gaps in past 12‐month care.Alcoholism Clin Exp Res. 2021;45(6):1276-1286. doi:10.1111/acer.14609Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Mental health and substance use co-occurring disorders.American Psychiatric Association.What are anxiety disorders?.American Psychiatric Association.What is depression?.U.S Department of Health and Human Services.Protecting youth mental health: The Surgeon General’s Advisory.Association of American Medical Colleges.A growing psychiatrist shortage and an enormous demand for mental health services.U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.DEA serves order to show cause on Truepill Pharmacy for its involvement in the unlawful dispensing of prescription stimulants.Association of American Medical Colleges.Exploring barriers to mental health care in the U.S.

Article Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Beck AJ, Page C, Buche J, Rittman D, Gaiser M.Estimating the distribution of the U.S. psychiatric subspecialist workforce. University of Michigan School of Public Health: Behavioral Health Workforce Research Center.Zhu JM, Zhang Y, Polsky D.Networks in ACA marketplaces are narrower for mental health care than for primary care.Health Affairs. 2017;36(9):1624-1631. doi:10.1377/hlthaff.2017.0325Sun CF, Correll CU, Trestman RL, et al.Low availability, long wait times, and high geographic disparity of psychiatric outpatient care in the US.Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2023;84:12-17. doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.05.012National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics.Mintz CM, Hartz SM, Fisher SL, et al.A cascade of care for alcohol use disorder: Using 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data to identify gaps in past 12‐month care.Alcoholism Clin Exp Res. 2021;45(6):1276-1286. doi:10.1111/acer.14609Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Mental health and substance use co-occurring disorders.American Psychiatric Association.What are anxiety disorders?.American Psychiatric Association.What is depression?.U.S Department of Health and Human Services.Protecting youth mental health: The Surgeon General’s Advisory.Association of American Medical Colleges.A growing psychiatrist shortage and an enormous demand for mental health services.U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.DEA serves order to show cause on Truepill Pharmacy for its involvement in the unlawful dispensing of prescription stimulants.Association of American Medical Colleges.Exploring barriers to mental health care in the U.S.

Beck AJ, Page C, Buche J, Rittman D, Gaiser M.Estimating the distribution of the U.S. psychiatric subspecialist workforce. University of Michigan School of Public Health: Behavioral Health Workforce Research Center.Zhu JM, Zhang Y, Polsky D.Networks in ACA marketplaces are narrower for mental health care than for primary care.Health Affairs. 2017;36(9):1624-1631. doi:10.1377/hlthaff.2017.0325Sun CF, Correll CU, Trestman RL, et al.Low availability, long wait times, and high geographic disparity of psychiatric outpatient care in the US.Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2023;84:12-17. doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.05.012National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics.Mintz CM, Hartz SM, Fisher SL, et al.A cascade of care for alcohol use disorder: Using 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data to identify gaps in past 12‐month care.Alcoholism Clin Exp Res. 2021;45(6):1276-1286. doi:10.1111/acer.14609Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Mental health and substance use co-occurring disorders.American Psychiatric Association.What are anxiety disorders?.American Psychiatric Association.What is depression?.U.S Department of Health and Human Services.Protecting youth mental health: The Surgeon General’s Advisory.Association of American Medical Colleges.A growing psychiatrist shortage and an enormous demand for mental health services.U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.DEA serves order to show cause on Truepill Pharmacy for its involvement in the unlawful dispensing of prescription stimulants.Association of American Medical Colleges.Exploring barriers to mental health care in the U.S.

Zhu JM, Zhang Y, Polsky D.Networks in ACA marketplaces are narrower for mental health care than for primary care.Health Affairs. 2017;36(9):1624-1631. doi:10.1377/hlthaff.2017.0325

Sun CF, Correll CU, Trestman RL, et al.Low availability, long wait times, and high geographic disparity of psychiatric outpatient care in the US.Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2023;84:12-17. doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.05.012

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics.

Mintz CM, Hartz SM, Fisher SL, et al.A cascade of care for alcohol use disorder: Using 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data to identify gaps in past 12‐month care.Alcoholism Clin Exp Res. 2021;45(6):1276-1286. doi:10.1111/acer.14609

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Mental health and substance use co-occurring disorders.

American Psychiatric Association.What are anxiety disorders?.

American Psychiatric Association.What is depression?.

U.S Department of Health and Human Services.Protecting youth mental health: The Surgeon General’s Advisory.

Association of American Medical Colleges.A growing psychiatrist shortage and an enormous demand for mental health services.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.DEA serves order to show cause on Truepill Pharmacy for its involvement in the unlawful dispensing of prescription stimulants.

Association of American Medical Colleges.Exploring barriers to mental health care in the U.S.

Hannah Owens, LMSW

Amanda Tust

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Our Online Therapy Methodology#

Best for Availability:Teladoc Health#

Best for Alcohol Use Disorder:Monument#

Best for Anxiety and Depression:Brightside#

Best for Medication Management:Talkiatry#

Best for Patient Support:Talkspace#

Best for Ease of Use:Thriveworks#

Best for Flexible Scheduling:Doctor on Demand#

Best for Budget:LiveHealth Online#

Best for Provider Options:MDLIVE#

Guide to Choosing the Best Online Psychiatry Service#

What If I’m Having Thoughts of Harming Myself?#

How We Tested and Reviewed Online Therapy Services#

Firsthand Experience#

User and Brand Surveys#

Research#

Expert Recommendations#