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Lincoln, Nebraska

Online psychiatrist for depression in Lincoln

Board certified, physician led depression care for adults in Lincoln, Nebraska, by secure video.

Medically reviewed by Shariq Refai, MD, MBA, FAPA, board certified psychiatrist · Last reviewed June 29, 2026 · Editorial policy

Board Certified Clinicians
HIPAA Compliant visits
No controlled substances
Same clinician over time

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Depression in Lincoln

Depression help in Lincoln, Nebraska

When depression takes hold, waiting weeks or months for a psychiatrist is not a real option. For people in Lincoln, online care closes that gap.

Lincoln is the state capital and home to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Its residents, state government workers, university students and staff, healthcare workers, and families, deserve psychiatric care that does not require a long drive or a long wait. shrinkMD is licensed across Nebraska and serves Lincoln by secure video.

Our approach

How we treat depression

Depression can look like low mood, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, or a heavy hopelessness that will not lift. Depression care here is measurement-based: we evaluate carefully, choose a non-controlled medication when it fits, track your symptoms with validated scales, and adjust until you are genuinely better. Care stays non-controlled here. For depression, that means proven antidepressant options and steady monitoring rather than anything with dependence risk.

Why timely care matters

Getting depression care in Lincoln without the wait

Lincoln is home to about 295,000 residents, the second-largest city in Nebraska. Of Nebraska's 93 counties, the large majority are designated mental health provider shortage areas and many have no psychiatric prescriber at all, leaving rural residents to drive long distances for in-person care. So even here, a timely in-person psychiatry appointment can be hard to come by, and that is the gap online depression care fills for Lincoln adults.

Care that fits

Online depression care that fits Lincoln life

For Lincoln, video visits remove the usual barriers. You get a full evaluation and a real plan, then steady follow-up with the same clinician, without leaving home. shrinkMD is opening to patients first in Nebraska. Join the waitlist and we will reach out the day intake opens, or read how to start care first. You can also see our broader depression care or depression care across Nebraska.

★★★★★

“Dr. Refai is outstanding. He is prompt, intelligent, and great at what he does. He gets me, and I wish I could clone him.”

Verified patient

Individual experiences. Outcomes vary. Care is personalized to each patient.

Frequently asked questions

Good questions, clear answers

Is online treatment effective for depression?

Yes. Studies consistently find virtual psychiatric care matches in-person care for depression, with the added benefit of easier, more consistent follow-up.

What if an antidepressant did not work before?

That is common and useful information. A careful re-evaluation often finds a better-fitting diagnosis or medication and a clearer plan.

Do you handle treatment-resistant depression?

We evaluate carefully and adjust based on your history. If a higher level of care is needed, we will say so and help you find it.

Do I have to live in Lincoln to be seen?

You need to be located in Nebraska during your visits, since that is where we are licensed. Lincoln and the surrounding area are covered.

Is online depression care as good as in person in Lincoln?

For most adults, yes. Research shows video-based psychiatric care matches in-person care for depression, and it is often easier to keep up with from Lincoln.

How much does an online psychiatrist cost without insurance?

Initial evaluations start at $295 and follow-ups run $110 to $215, with an optional $49 per month membership. shrinkMD is cash pay and provides a superbill on request.

Do I need a referral to see an online psychiatrist?

No referral is needed. You complete a secure intake and book once care is open in your state.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this content does not create a doctor-patient relationship with shrinkMD, Dr. Shariq Refai, or any affiliated clinician. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding questions about a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you have read on this website. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Start depression care in Lincoln

Physician led, cash pay online psychiatry for adults, specializing in anxiety and depression, with no controlled substances and the same clinician over time. Join the waitlist and we will reach out the day intake opens.

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