Effective depression treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. Here’s what you can expect from your first steps with Talkiatry.
Mental health care at Talkiatry starts with a quick online form, where you’ll tell us more about your symptoms and what you’re looking for in a provider. We’ll share options for psychiatrists who match your needs.
You’ll meet online with your psychiatrist to talk through your experiences. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms, family history, and medical history to evaluate whether depression could be a factor.
If your psychiatrist provides a diagnosis of depression, you’ll work together to create a care plan for your needs. Your treatment options may include medication, therapy, or both. You’ll have ongoing follow-ups to track progress and adjust as needed.
There are several types of medication for depression. Your psychiatrist will work with you to find the best option for your needs.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) work to increase the level of serotonin in the brain, a chemical messenger that affects mood, emotion, and sleep. These medications are typically well tolerated, with a lower risk of side effects than other types of antidepressants, and are often the first-line medications for depression.
Common medications:
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) increase the level of both serotonin and another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, in the brain. Like SSRIs, SNRIs are first-line depression medications that are typically well tolerated.
Common medications:
There are antidepressants that target different chemicals in the brain than SSRIs or SNRIs, referred to as atypical antidepressants. They can be a good fit if you have experienced side effects from other types of depression medication. They can be taken on their own or in combination with other medications that treat depression symptoms.
Common medications:
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) also increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, but they are older medications that can affect more body systems than newer SSRIs or SNRIs. These medications may be an effective option when symptoms haven’t responded to first-line treatments, but they come with the potential for more side effects.
Common medications:
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) work to prevent the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—chemicals in your brain that affect mood.
Common medications:
Our licensed providers specialize in personalized, evidence-based mental health treatment.
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You’ll work with your psychiatrist to create a care plan tailored to your needs. Here’s what to expect.
Your first appointment is a full hour. Your psychiatrist will ask about your symptoms and history, using standard diagnostic criteria to guide the conversation. If they make a diagnosis of depression, you’ll work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs.
If you’re prescribed medication for symptoms of depression, you’ll continue to meet with your psychiatrist for ongoing medication management. You’ll track your progress at regular check-ins and make any adjustments to your treatment plan if needed.
Treatment for depression often involves a combination of depression medication and therapy. If your provider feels you’d benefit from talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), they’ll provide recommendations for in person or online therapy. In some cases, we can refer you to an on-staff therapist.
Our clinicians bring deep clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every visit, so you feel supported every step of the way.
“I recommend Talkiatry to anyone that will listen. The benefits this network has provided me in such a short time are priceless and immeasurable.”
Nancy L., Ohio
“She is very relatable. She is mindful of cost of my medications.”
Joseph D., Colorado
“Great experience! Provider was ready early which was amazing and honestly never happens. Really appreciate honoring a patient’s time.”
Jennifer C., Texas
ADHD diagnoses are complex and need to come from a qualified clinician.
Yes. If depression medication is a part of your treatment plan, our licensed psychiatrists can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe antidepressants during a telehealth visit. We’ll send your prescriptions to your local pharmacy electronically.
Many people begin to experience a change in their mood, energy, or sleep within 2 to 4 weeks of taking their antidepressant, but it can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to experience the full effects. It varies by individual and by medication type. Your psychiatrist will track your progress and adjust your plan if needed.
No. Unlike benzodiazepines and other controlled substances with a risk of dependence, antidepressants are not addictive. However, they can still cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them abruptly. It’s important to work closely with your provider when starting or stopping any prescription medication.
While side effects can vary by individual, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are often prescribed first because they typically have fewer side effects for many people. Your psychiatrist will consider your health history, symptoms, and past experiences to recommend a medication that’s likely to work well for you.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Many medications for depression are safe to take during pregnancy, but some can lead to a higher risk of pregnancy loss or complications or health issues for the baby. To make informed treatment decisions, communicate openly with your psychiatrist about your pregnancy and health history.
Most medications transfer into breast milk at such low levels that they are considered safe to take while breastfeeding, but there are some exceptions. If you’re exploring your options for depression medication while breastfeeding, speak with your psychiatrist about the risks and benefits of taking medication, as well as the potential effects of leaving symptoms untreated.