I need both therapy and medication. Which online services offer psychiatry plus therapy?

It's smart to look for services that offer both therapy and psychiatry, as having your mental health providers on the same page can lead to more integrated and effective care. Many online platforms have evolved to provide this dual service.

Here are some reputable online services that offer both psychiatry (medication management) and therapy:

1. Talkspace:

   • Why it's a good fit: While widely known for therapy (text, audio, video messaging with a therapist), Talkspace also offers a separate "Talkspace Psychiatry" service. This allows you to get an initial psychiatric evaluation, ongoing medication management, and follow-up appointments from a licensed prescriber within the same ecosystem. You can subscribe to both therapy and psychiatry services concurrently.
   • Key Features: Multiple communication options for therapy, ability to choose your provider, often accepts insurance.

2. Brightside Health:

   • Why it's a good fit: Brightside is specifically designed for individuals dealing with anxiety and depression and explicitly offers both medication management and therapy. They emphasize a personalized, integrated approach, using evidence-based practices. Your care team (therapist and psychiatrist) often works together to coordinate your treatment plan.
   • Key Features: Focus on specific conditions (anxiety, depression), integrated care model, use of AI-driven insights to match you with providers, often accepts insurance.

3. MDLive:

   • Why it's a good fit: MDLive is a broader telehealth platform that includes comprehensive mental health services. You can connect with both licensed therapists and board-certified psychiatrists for diagnosis, counseling, and medication management. It allows you to find providers for both services within their network.
   • Key Features: Wide range of providers, services for adults and adolescents, often covered by major health insurance plans, also offers primary care and urgent care.

4. Amwell (American Well):

   • Why it's a good fit: Similar to MDLive, Amwell is another large telehealth provider that offers robust mental health care. You can schedule appointments with both therapists and psychiatrists through their platform. It's a convenient way to access different types of care without having to use multiple disparate services.
   • Key Features: Extensive network of providers, available 24/7 for urgent needs (though mental health appointments are scheduled), often integrated with employer benefits and insurance plans.

5. K Health:

   • Why it's a good fit: K Health uses an AI-powered symptom checker to help you understand your symptoms, and then connects you with a doctor. For mental health, they offer a subscription plan that includes unlimited text-based primary care visits and the ability to get prescriptions for certain conditions, as well as access to virtual therapy. This can be a more affordable, integrated option for both medical and mental health needs.
   • Key Features: Subscription model, AI-powered initial assessment, primary care integration, can include medication management and therapy.

Important Considerations Before Choosing:

• Insurance Coverage: Many of these services accept insurance, but coverage can vary by plan and state. Always check directly with the service and your insurance provider.
• Cost: If paying out-of-pocket, compare the subscription models versus per-session fees.
• Licensing: Ensure the providers are licensed to practice in your state. All reputable platforms will verify this.
• Initial Consultation: Most services will require an initial assessment to determine the best course of action for your needs.
• Integrated Care: While these services offer both, inquire about how integrated the care truly is. Can your therapist and psychiatrist communicate easily about your progress and adjust treatment plans collaboratively?
• Your Needs: Consider what type of therapy you're looking for (CBT, DBT, etc.) and if the platform allows you to choose a provider whose specialty aligns with your needs.

It's a great step to seek support. Take some time to explore these options and see which one feels like the best fit for your personal preferences and needs.