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.

Provider Nikki Tsang

Same-day appointments available

Anxiety diagnosis and treatment
Dr. Amanda Lerner

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.

Insurance Shield

In network with most PPO insurance plans

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Frequently Asked Questions

Anxiety / Depression Treatment

Can I get diagnosed with anxiety or depression through Circle?

Yes, Circle Medical providers offer comprehensive assessments to diagnose mild to moderate anxiety or depression. These evaluations take into account your symptoms, medical history, and other contributing factors.

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?

Our mission is to make mental health care more accessible through primary care integration. However, for complex mental health conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or cases requiring benzodiazepines, a mental health professional or psychiatrist may be recommended.

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?

Circle Medical providers include board-certified MDs, DOs, nurse practitioners (NPs), and physician assistants (PAs) who deliver a full range of primary care services, including mental health care. While we do not have psychiatrists on our platform, our providers can diagnose and treat many mental illnesses and prescribe medications when appropriate.

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)?

You can schedule an appointment with any of our available providers, including nurse practitioners and physician assistants. All providers collaborate to maintain the same high standard of care across clinical assessments and treatments.

How long are the appointments?

Initial intake appointments last 30 minutes, while follow-up appointments are typically 20 minutes.

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?

Circle Medical works with most PPO insurance plans and some HMO plans in the California Bay Area. PPO providers include Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, and others.

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?

If you have prior documentation of anxiety or depression diagnoses, you can email them to [email protected]. This step is optional but helps your provider tailor the best treatment plan for you.

What happens after I am prescribed?

After your diagnosis, if medications are prescribed, your prescription will be electronically sent to your preferred pharmacy. For new treatments or dosage adjustments, follow-ups occur every two weeks until stable. Ongoing monthly appointments ensure long-term care and progress monitoring.

Can I get diagnosed in my first appointment? How long does it take to have a complete diagnosis?

Diagnoses usually require 1-2 appointments to allow for a thorough assessment. Clinically appropriate treatments are developed on a case-by-case basis, following evidence-based guidelines to deliver the best care possible
Clinically Appropriate

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.

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    Excellent providers that truly care about their patients and listen to their concerns. Telehealth appointments are seamless.

    Ashley

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    They have been beyond helpful. All of the staff have been kind and considerate and always get back to me in a timely manner. They have helped so much. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

    Red

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    This has been a great experience! My provider actually listens to me & helps to come up with solutions to my complaints. I would absolutely recommend this service.

    Owen

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    Great service, always gets the results you want and need, full team always ready to answer your questions in-depth. The willingness to just help is truly amazing.

    Leticia

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    My provider was very understanding, professional, friendly, and thorough. So convenient. Definitely recommend.

    Blake

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    My provider is truly a pleasure to work with. She is very informative understanding and has impeccable bedside manner.

    Deshawn

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    I needed a script for a CPAP machine and don't have a lot of vacation/PTO time right now so telehealth really fits my situation. I am thoroughly satisfied with my experience!

    Julia

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    Circle Medicine gave me access to care that if I had not been able to access through telemedicine I most likely would not have gotten it. Not to mention the ease of use, which is an absolute 10. Technology at its finest.

    Mark

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    This has been the most helpful medical resource I've discovered. Quality providers, good service and factual conversation. I am very pleased.

    Marlee

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    I'm having a great experience with Circle Medical. They schedule appointments quickly, show up to the video calls on time and take your issues seriously. I feel heard. My treatment is working! Looking forward to continuing to work with Circle.

    Erin

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    I was heard, not treated like I was a problem!!! Wasn't rushed and was asked the right questions for what I have going on.

    Adalynn

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    The app, and the providers have been a great deal of help to me! And the convenience is wonderful as well. I honestly can't ask for better help. I'm really on a path to getting better and stronger so thank you.

    Demetrius

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    I got an appointment quickly, my provider was friendly and helped me. I was very impressed with everything!

    Miguel

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    I've been very impressed by Circle. They are using technology to solve access issues in healthcare. The tech is impressive and the support staff and practitioners are very professional and kind. Well done.

    Mikey

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    I love the app and support from my PCP. Great communication and engagement before and after appointments.

    Krish

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    I LOVE my practitioner from Circle Medical. She is caring and careful. She adjusts my meds as needed. She has made a difference in my health and well being.

    Danielle

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    It's an awesome app. The providers and other staffs are so professional, they treat the patient with respect. They are also fast and reliable. The cost of visit is also reasonable.

    Brooklyn

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    So easy and EXCELLENT providers. Have been so very thankful for this service. It's truly improved my life.

    Naima

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    Great selection of providers. They are kind and knowledgeable. Easy process - insurance accepted! Did my check in while at work, doesn't get better than that!

    Dayna

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    I recommend Circle Medical to everyone. Before it would take 6 months to make an appointment, then I'd have to take a day off work, it would take 4 hours to go through and see the doc. Between driving there, checking in, waiting in the big waiting room, then the small waiting room, seeing the MA then finally the doc, it would be a huge day-eating event. Circle Medical makes it so easy! I don't need to take a day off work, no waiting in waiting rooms, same day appointments, you can't beat it!

    Rodolfo

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    Its extremely user friendly, and the Doctors, PAs and NPs are of the absolute highest quality.

    Cara

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    I have been using Circle for half a year and never had an issue questions were answered within the time given. My provider has been there for me 1000%. Never late!! Pleasant and caring always asked how she can HELP!! I have only good things to say. Your wasting your own time, employers time, gas, and cash going to a doctor's office.

    Madelyn

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    They have been extremely helpful, and my provider has been extremely kind and helping. She made me feel comfortable and better immediately during our first visit.

    Sonny

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    My provider was easy to work with. She's also licensed in both CA and FL where I split my time - which makes my medical care sooo much easier! She was lovely ♥️.

    Jacki

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    They are fast to respond an a great flexible appointment times and they actually listen to your concerns an help you!!

    Kamila

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    I had struggled to find a primary care provider near where I live as I live in a very rural area and I found this via Google search and could not be happier with the service I have received since. Appointments available next day, easy app to use and friendly staff. Highly recommend!!

    Regina

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    I have had nothing but a great experience all around. The providers are great and the online staff has been helpful every time I've needed anything.

    Amanda

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    The turnaround time to get an appointment and see a provider was so quick and easy; everything is setup with the neurodivergent brain in mind from the way the app is designed to appointment reminders and calendar syncing. My provider made me feel heard and she kept our appointment focused on the task at hand (so important for adhd minds!).

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    More thorough than any in-person doctor visit I've ever been to.

    Nicole

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    My provider is excellent. She is so personable and remembers me. It is easy to use and appointments are available both early or late in the day.

    Jane

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    I am very happy with my treatment and my provider has been really great and helpful. I came to Circle from Done, and Circle is far better at patient follow-up and working with me so that I can manage my ADHD in the best way possible. Also, I am very happy with the communication with Circle Medical.

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    Walter

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    Circle makes treatment accessible. In my area, providers are either not available at all or only available many months down the road. The service providers are very pleasant. Versus other options, where the service providers were rude and impatient, Circle actually has available appointments.

    Iliana

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    You guys have been so helpful in getting my meds and I love having the accessibility of talking to someone to help me with other questions that I may have. I actually have referred one of my friends to this service. It has helped me immensely.

    Taliyah

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    Excellent communication with providers. Friendly, affordable and transparent care.

    Charlie

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    Circle Medical has been an incredibly smooth and convenient way to receive medical care. The providers have been incredibly understanding and supportive, have been helpful in helping me find solutions to problems, and go the extra mile to ensure I've received quality care. All of this comes with the convenience of being wherever I have an internet connection from the comfort of home. I would highly recommend to anyone.

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    I have had a hard time with my primary care physician helping me explore ADHD treatment. I was not sure where else to turn. This was so easy and uses my insurance.

    Adalynn

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    I have really loved using Circle Medical. I use Circle for both ADHD treatment and as my primary care provider. I've had an easy time with making appointments, seeing my doctors, and I receive amazing care. I work long hours and it's difficult for me to visit typical doctor's offices, so it's nice to have a well rounded online clinic. I also feel that Circle Medical has a great background and it feels more secure knowing that they are tied to a large hospital with a great track record.

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    Quick and easy especially if you're super-busy with life and work to make a appointment to go some where and see a doctor... This is a life changer for me.

    Cale

Circle Medical Providers must meet all of the following standards:

  • Exceptionally qualified in their field

  • Board-certified

  • Deeply empathetic for patients

  • Follows evidence-based care guidelines

  • Embracing of diverse patient backgrounds

  • 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.

Book Appointment

Talk to a provider about Anxiety today.

Provider Nikki Tsang

Same-day Availabilities

Read more about Anxiety treatment

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.