Meet with an online doctor over video for anxiety diagnosis and treatment today
Circle Medical's team of board-certified and empathetic providers are standing by to help you. Attend a same-day appointment from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Same-day appointments available
Let's get you the help you need.
Dr. Amanda Lerner
What to expect.
During your initial visit with a provider of your choice, you will discuss
your medical history and the experiences that led you to seek treatment for
anxiety. This evaluation may explore various types of anxiety disorders. Your
provider may also request previous medical records or recommend blood work to
rule out any physical conditions contributing to your symptoms.
In a follow-up appointment, your provider will collaborate with you to develop
a tailored treatment plan. This may include options such as cognitive behavioral
therapy (CBT) or appropriate anxiety medications, depending on your symptoms and
personal needs.
If your provider determines that your condition would be better managed by a psychiatrist,
they will connect you with psychiatry resources. Additionally, Circle Medical offers
therapy referrals in all locations where we provide care.
For more information on who is a good fit for anxiety diagnosis and treatment through
our practice, please review our comprehensive FAQ.
Comprehensive Anxiety or Depression assessment over video
Same-day or next-day appointment availability
If appropriate, we offer evidence-based treatment options for anxiety
Board-certified providers who provide anxiety and depression care
Therapy referrals available everywhere we offer care
As a primary care practice, we can treat you for many other conditions as well, streamlining your medical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anxiety / Depression Treatment
Can I get diagnosed with anxiety or depression through Circle?
If diagnosed, we provide ongoing care, including regular check-ins, and evidence-based prescription management, when appropriate. Options may include short-term interventions or long-term support, depending on your needs. Referrals for psychotherapy, talk therapy, or online therapy are also available.
Please note that booking and paying for a video appointment does not guarantee a diagnosis or specific medication. Providers consider your complete health profile and use evidence-based diagnostic tools to ensure the best treatment for your condition.
Who is a good fit for anxiety and/or depression medication management through Circle?
Circle Medical is not equipped to prescribe controlled substances for sleep aids, pain management, or severe mental health conditions. For guidance on our mental health care scope, see our Mental Health and Care Eligibility guidelines.
Providers
Am I seeing a psychiatrist through Circle?
For more complex cases, such as severe mental health conditions, we recommend consulting a psychiatrist. For more details, please explore our FAQ.
Do I need to book my appointment with a doctor (MD or DO), or can I book my appointment with any provider (PA-C, NP, etc)?
How long are the appointments?
Billing
What is the total cost of anxiety and/or depression diagnosis and treatment?
Insured Patients
Your copay may range from $5 to $50 per appointment, depending on your insurance plan. For more accurate estimates, input your insurance details during booking or contact your insurance provider directly.Uninsured Patients
The cost for self-pay appointments is $100 each.Insurance
What insurance do you accept?
Unfortunately, we cannot accept Medi-Cal or Medicaid, even for self-pay patients. We recommend seeking care through a provider that accepts these plans.
Other
Do new patients need to prepare anything for their first appointment at Circle Medical?
What happens after I am prescribed?
Can I get diagnosed in my first appointment? How long does it take to have a complete diagnosis?
Clinically appropriate treatment, tailored on a case-by-case basis.
We put patients first in every decision we make, and follow clinical guidelines based on evidence-based medicine to ensure patients get the most effective care possible.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived danger, often accompanied by feelings of worry, fear, or apprehension. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, excessive, persistent, or overwhelming anxiety may indicate an underlying mental health condition.
Anxiety disorders come in various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder (SAD), and specific phobias. These conditions can affect individuals differently but often share common symptoms.
Physical symptoms of anxiety may include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, or shortness of breath. Many individuals also experience persistent negative thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or a looming sense of dread. Over time, anxiety can disrupt daily life, impacting relationships, work or school performance, and social interactions.
Treatment for anxiety often involves a combination of approaches, such as therapy, medication, and self-care strategies. Techniques like regular exercise, relaxation practices, and stress management can also help. For severe or chronic anxiety, seeking professional support is essential to alleviate symptoms and enhance overall well-being.
What causes Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders arise from a complex interplay of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, making each person's experience unique.
Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can influence the development of anxiety disorders. These chemical imbalances can disrupt mood regulation and stress response.
Genetic Factors: A family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions may increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder, highlighting the role of genetic predisposition.
Environmental Factors: Traumatic events such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or the loss of a loved one can trigger anxiety. Prolonged exposure to chronic stress, violence, or highly demanding environments may also contribute to the onset of anxiety disorders.
Medical Conditions and Substances: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid imbalances, heart or respiratory issues, and hormonal disorders, are linked to anxiety symptoms. Substances like caffeine, alcohol, or drugs can exacerbate anxiety, and some medications may have anxiety as a side effect.
Understanding these multifaceted causes helps create personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, enabling more effective management of anxiety symptoms and their triggers.
What are the symptoms of Anxiety?
Anxiety can present with a wide range of symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Common signs include:
Excessive Worry: Persistent, uncontrollable worry about everyday concerns, future events, health, work, or relationships. This worry often feels disproportionate to the actual situation.
Restlessness and Irritability: A constant sense of being on edge, difficulty relaxing, or heightened irritability. Individuals may feel easily startled or perpetually uneasy.
Physical Symptoms: Anxiety often manifests physically with symptoms like increased heart rate, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, trembling, nausea, or tension headaches. Gastrointestinal issues, such as stomachaches, are also common.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to racing thoughts or intrusive worries. Restless, unsatisfying sleep can leave individuals feeling fatigued and overwhelmed.
Cognitive Symptoms: Negative thought patterns, self-doubt, fear of losing control, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems are frequent cognitive effects. Anxiety can also impair decision-making and confidence.
Avoidance Behavior: To manage perceived triggers, individuals may avoid certain situations, places, or activities, leading to social isolation or reduced engagement in previously enjoyable activities.
Panic Attacks: Sudden, intense episodes of fear or panic, characterized by rapid heart rate, chest pain, trembling, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of losing control or impending doom*.
Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and each person’s experience with anxiety is unique. If persistent symptoms interfere with daily life, seeking professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
*Please note: If you are experiencing symptoms, such as rapid heart rate, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or other severe symptoms, you should go to an emergency room or dial 911.
How do I know if I need a prescription for Anxiety?
Deciding whether a prescription is necessary for anxiety is best done in collaboration with a healthcare professional.
If anxiety symptoms are significantly disrupting your daily life, relationships, or well-being—or if they persist for weeks or months without improvement through self-help strategies or therapy—medication may be an option. Prescription medications, such as those for managing generalized anxiety or panic disorders, can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
Your treatment plan will be personalized, considering your medical history, potential side effects, existing health conditions, and preferences. A provider at Circle Medical can assess your symptoms, recommend effective options, and guide you in making an informed decision. Whether medication, therapy, or a combination of approaches, the goal is to create a plan that supports your mental health and improves your quality of life.
Tips for coping with anxious thoughts and feelings:
Managing anxiety takes time and experimentation, but these strategies can help alleviate symptoms and foster emotional balance:
Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can activate the body's natural relaxation response, reducing anxious thoughts and physical tension.
Engage in Regular Physical Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress. Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming can enhance sleep quality and overall well-being while lowering anxiety levels.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep, eat nutritious meals, and limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can heighten anxiety. Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking or substance misuse.
Establish a Support System: Share your feelings with trusted friends, family, or support groups. Building connections with understanding individuals can provide encouragement and alleviate feelings of isolation.
Practice Stress Management Techniques: Find constructive outlets for stress, such as journaling, pursuing hobbies, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in creative activities. These can redirect anxious thoughts and promote relaxation.
Remember, coping with anxiety is a personal journey. Be patient with yourself as you explore strategies that resonate with your needs and consider seeking professional guidance for tailored support.
Don't take our word for it.
We are trusted by over 50,000 patients every month. Here's what they have to say.
Circle Medical Providers must meet all of the following standards:
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Exceptionally qualified in their field
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Board-certified
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Deeply empathetic for patients
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Follows evidence-based care guidelines
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Embracing of diverse patient backgrounds
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Impeccable record of previous care
400+ Primary Care Providers.
100% Confidence.
No matter which Provider you choose, you will be seen by a clinician who cares deeply about your health and wants to help you live your happiest, healthiest life.
Circle Medical Providers are held to an exceptionally high standard of compassionate, evidence-based care.
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How to get diagnosed with anxiety online
If you're dealing with a mood disorder like anxiety, obtaining a proper diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Thankfully, online primary care makes it easier than ever to connect with qualified healthcare providers without leaving your home.
During your initial appointment with an online primary care provider, you'll undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine whether anxiety is the root cause of your symptoms. This evaluation typically involves discussing your experiences with anxiety, your health history, and any related concerns. In some cases, your provider may recommend blood work to rule out underlying medical conditions that could contribute to your symptoms.
If anxiety is diagnosed, your provider will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This plan may include therapy, medication, or lifestyle recommendations designed to help you manage symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
How to talk to your primary care doctor or health care provider about mental health
Discussing mental health can feel challenging, but your primary care provider is there to support you. To ease the process, prepare ahead by making a detailed list of your symptoms, including when they started, how often they occur, and how they impact your daily life. Bringing this list to your appointment can help ensure you communicate all relevant details clearly.
During your visit, don't hesitate to ask questions about your diagnosis, treatment options, or any concerns you may have. Open communication is key to developing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, anxiety treatment is a collaborative and ongoing process, and your provider is there to guide you every step of the way.