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Cost

How much does an online psychiatrist cost without insurance?

Most practices won't publish a number. We do. Here's exactly what psychiatric care costs at shrinkMD when you pay cash.

Medically reviewed by Shariq Refai, MD, MBA, FAPA, board certified psychiatrist · Last reviewed July 2, 2026 · Editorial policy

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

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The short answer

The short answer, with real numbers

At shrinkMD, an initial psychiatric evaluation starts at $295, follow-up visits run $110 to $215, and an optional membership is $49 per month with the first month free. There's no insurance to bill and no surprise statement weeks later. You see the price, then you decide.

Almost no online psychiatry practice publishes its self-pay prices, which makes it hard to compare. Publishing ours is deliberate. Prices shown are shrinkMD's published self-pay rates as of July 2, 2026, and are the same in every state where we practice.

What it costs

What psychiatric care costs at shrinkMD

ServiceSelf-pay priceWhat's included
Initial evaluationFrom $295A full 50 to 60 minute evaluation, diagnosis, and written plan with a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Follow-up visits$110 to $215Per visit, depending on length and complexity. Member rates are lower.
Membership (optional)$49 per monthPriority scheduling, member visit rates, and the Unstuck and QuitScrolling apps. First month free, cancel anytime.
Prices shown are shrinkMD's published self-pay rates as of July 2, 2026, and are the same in every state where we practice. See the full breakdown on our pricing page.

Why no insurance

Why cash pay can cost less than it sounds

Cash pay isn't automatically more expensive. Insurance based psychiatry often means shorter visits, a rotating cast of clinicians, and out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, copays, coinsurance) that you can't predict until the claim settles. A clear, published cash price with a full-hour evaluation and the same clinician over time is a different value, not just a different bill.

If you have strong in-network psychiatric coverage, an insurance based practice may cost you less out of pocket. We're upfront about that. On request we can provide a superbill you may submit to your plan for possible out-of-network reimbursement, though whether you're reimbursed is determined solely by your plan and isn't guaranteed.

By state

Cost by state

Our prices are the same in every state where we practice. If you want the local picture, including access and wait-time context for your area, choose your state:

Want the reasoning behind our model? Read why we don't accept insurance and our cash pay overview.

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Frequently asked questions

Good questions, clear answers

How much does an online psychiatrist cost without insurance?

At shrinkMD, an initial evaluation starts at $295, follow-up visits run $110 to $215, and an optional membership is $49 per month with the first month free. Prices are published and the same in every state where we practice.

Is it cheaper to see a psychiatrist without insurance?

It depends on your coverage. Cash pay gives you a clear, predictable price with longer visits and continuity. If you have strong in-network psychiatric benefits, an insurance based practice may cost less out of pocket.

What is a superbill, and will I be reimbursed?

A superbill is an itemized receipt you can submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement. We provide one on request. Whether you're reimbursed, and how much, is decided solely by your plan and isn't guaranteed.

Does shrinkMD charge for controlled substances or stimulants?

No. shrinkMD doesn't prescribe controlled substances at any price. Care is built on non-controlled medication and therapy coordination.

Is online psychiatry legit at these prices?

Yes. shrinkMD is LegitScript certified and physician led, with care delivered by licensed clinicians over secure, HIPAA compliant video.

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.

See if shrinkMD fits your budget

Physician led, cash pay online psychiatry for adults, with published prices, no controlled substances, and the same clinician over time. Join the waitlist for your state.

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