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Looking for a Cerebral alternative?
A factual look at how shrinkMD compares to Cerebral, and who each one suits.
Medically reviewed by Shariq Refai, MD, MBA, FAPA, board certified psychiatrist · Last reviewed June 28, 2026 · Editorial policy
Cerebral offers online medication management and therapy through insurance and self pay subscriptions. shrinkMD is a cash pay, physician led practice. Here's a neutral comparison.
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Cerebral and shrinkMD, side by side
| Cerebral | shrinkMD | |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance | Accepts insurance and offers self pay subscriptions. | Cash pay only. We don't bill insurance; a superbill is available on request for possible out-of-network reimbursement. |
| Self pay price | Medication management around $60 per month self pay. | From $295 initial, $110 to $215 follow-ups, optional $49 per month membership. |
| Controlled substances | Does not prescribe controlled substances, including stimulants and benzodiazepines. | Never. No stimulants, benzodiazepines, or other controlled substances. |
| Who you see | Prescribers and therapists. | Board certified psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner. |
| States | Available in all 50 states. | Launching in Nebraska and Maine, with more states licensed and launching. |
| Model | Subscription medication management and therapy. | Full initial evaluation, then the same clinician for follow-ups. |
Is shrinkMD a fit?
Who shrinkMD is, and isn't, for
A good fit if: you want a board certified psychiatrist or psychiatric NP, a full initial evaluation, the same clinician over time, and clear cash pricing.
Not the right fit if: you want to use insurance, or you need controlled medication. Neither Cerebral nor shrinkMD prescribes controlled substances.
Ready to start with shrinkMD?
shrinkMD is physician led, cash pay online psychiatry for adults, with no controlled substances and the same clinician over time. See if it's the right fit, then join the waitlist for your state.
Get StartedAlready know your state is active? Skip to the waitlist.