Find a Telepsychiatrist
Near You.
Break free from your mental health conditions.
Get premium telepsychiatry services for just $89/month.
Find a Telepsychiatrist Near You.
Get premium telepsychiatrist services in Arizona and Virginia for just $89/month.
OUR APPROACH
How we treat a range of mental health conditions
Our approach to mental health care for patients begins with empathy and a deep understanding of how your condition impacts your quality of life. This allows us to come up with a treatment plan that revolves around your unique needs, medical history and the latest data out there. Here’s a breakdown:
    60-Minute Psychiatric Assessment
Your journey to mental wellness starts with a 60-minute assessment, where one of our experts will take a deep dive into your specific challenges with anxiety, depression, ADHD and more to create a care plan tailored just for you. Your journey is as unique as you are, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
    Evidence-Based Treatment
Our psychiatrists stay up to date with the latest research and treatments in mental health. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we only recommend solutions backed by science to give you the best chance at success.
OUR APPROACH
Break Free From Anxiety
60 Minute Psychiatric Assessments
Your journey to mental wellness starts with a 60-minute assessment, where one of our experts will take a deep dive into your specific challenges with anxiety to create a care plan tailored just for you. Your journey is as unique as you are, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Our psychiatrists stay up to date with the latest research and treatments in mental health. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we only recommend solutions backed by science to give you the best chance at success.
PATIENT REVIEWS
Real Patients, Real Stories
- Jeff
- Madison
- Christina
I searched for a Dr. for my boyfriend to meet with for weeks knowing that my boyfriend was reluctant to go. I was most concerned that the experience might not go well and my boyfriend wouldn’t give it another shot. Boy am I glad we went here. Dr. Shorten was AMAZING and not only made us feel comfortable but nailed it across the board with listening and helping my boyfriend to understand what’s going on. Do yourself the favor and schedule. You will not be disappointed.
- Michelle
- Cooper
- Alexis
- Rachel
- Tiffany
"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."
- Scott
- Mario
- Andrea
- Leo
- Emma
- Victoria
- Lisa
- Tony
- Colleen
PATIENT REVIEWS
Real Patients, Real Stories
- Jeff
- Madison
- Christina
I searched for a Dr. for my boyfriend to meet with for weeks knowing that my boyfriend was reluctant to go. I was most concerned that the experience might not go well and my boyfriend wouldn’t give it another shot. Boy am I glad we went here. Dr. Shorten was AMAZING and not only made us feel comfortable but nailed it across the board with listening and helping my boyfriend to understand what’s going on. Do yourself the favor and schedule. You will not be disappointed.
- Michelle
- Cooper
- Alexis
- Rachel
- Tiffany
"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."
- Scott
- Mario
- Andrea
- Leo
- Emma
- Victoria
- Lisa
- Tony
- Colleen
Learn More About Anxiety
What are anxiety disorders?
Anxiety, characterized by persistent worry or fear, is a normal emotional response and an expected part of life. However, when these feelings become overwhelming, constant, or disproportionate to the actual situation, they may indicate an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that can significantly impact your daily life. While they may feel isolating and challenging, you are far from alone.
In fact, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issue, with nearly 30% of adults in the United States experiencing one at some point in their lifetime. If you suspect you have an anxiety disorder, seeking a diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, is an important first step.
The good news is that these conditions are treatable, and with the right approach, you can regain control and improve your quality of life.
Anxiety vs. everyday worry
Worry is a natural reaction to life’s challenges—whether it’s preparing for a big presentation or navigating a disagreement with someone close to you.
These short-term feelings, often linked to specific situations, are common and temporary. For example, losing sleep before an important meeting or feeling nervous about an upcoming event are normal responses to stress.
On the other hand, anxiety disorders bring a heightened level of worry or fear that feels excessive or unwarranted. This worry may not align with the situation at hand, or it might arise without a clear cause.
Everyday activities or minor events can trigger significant distress, or you may feel anxious all the time, even when nothing seems wrong.
Ready to find relief from anxiety?
Types of anxiety
Anxiety can be categorized into several types based on its duration, intensity, and specific triggers. Here are some broad categories:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, and relationships. Individuals with GAD often experience physical symptoms like muscle tension, restlessness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
Acute Anxiety
A short-term response to a specific stressor or situation. It often resolves once the stressor is removed or the situation is resolved.
Social Anxiety
Centered around social interactions and the fear of negative evaluation or judgment from others. Individuals with social anxiety may experience heightened anxiety in social situations.
Performance Anxiety
Occurs in situations where individuals are required to perform, such as public speaking, performing on stage, or taking exams. The fear of failure or negative evaluation can be a significant component.
Situational Anxiety
Triggered by specific situations or events. Common examples include anxiety before exams, public speaking, or medical procedures.
Free-Floating Anxiety
These categories are not mutually exclusive, and an individual may experience anxiety in various forms or a combination of these. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, seeking professional guidance can be helpful in understanding and addressing the specific challenges involved.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are intense episodes characterized by overwhelming fear or discomfort, often accompanied by symptoms like a racing heart, difficulty breathing, trembling, and a feeling of impending danger.
To manage a panic attack, concentrate on slow, deep breathing, grounding methods such as tactile or verbal cues from your surroundings, and calming activities like listening to soothing music or practicing mindfulness.
Consulting with a mental health specialist can equip you with customized techniques to navigate through panic attacks and diminish their likelihood in the future.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety
Excessive Worry
Sweating
Trembling or Shaking
Fatigue or Loss of Energy
Shortness of Breath
Nausea or Upset Stomach
Irritability or Agitation
Restlessness
Difficulty Concentrating
Increased Heart rate
Sleep Disturbance
Muscle Tension
How do you treat anxiety?
Medication Management
Our primary approach to treating anxiety involves the careful use of medication. We specialize in prescribing a range of pharmacological treatments, including SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), and other anti-anxiety medications. Our experienced psychiatrists tailor medication choices to each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment, aiming to reduce anxiety levels and improve daily functioning.
Supportive Services
While our focus is on medication management, we also recognize the importance of additional supportive services in the treatment of anxiety. We may suggest resources such as counseling or therapy, which can be beneficial in developing coping strategies and understanding the underlying causes of anxiety. We also encourage participation in support groups for peer-based sharing and support.
Lifestyle Guidance
Managing anxiety often extends beyond medication to include lifestyle modifications. We provide advice on integrating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and relaxation techniques into your routine, as these can have a significant positive impact on anxiety levels. Good sleep hygiene practices are also emphasized to improve sleep quality, which is often affected by anxiety.
Educational Resources
Understanding anxiety is a big step towards managing it effectively. Platinum Psychiatry offers educational materials to help patients and their families gain insights into the nature of anxiety, its triggers, and coping mechanisms. This knowledge empowers patients to take an active role in their treatment and recovery process.
Common medications for anxiety
Medications for mental health are just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan. In addition to medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments may also play important roles in your recovery and well-being.
The chosen medication will be carefully monitored for its effectiveness and any potential side effects, and your psychiatrist will make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Regular and open communication with your psychiatrist is paramount throughout this process. It allows for the fine-tuning of your medication regimen, tailored to your specific needs, and ultimately promoting optimal mental well-being while minimizing potential risks.
Remember, you’re not alone in your mental health journey, and seeking professional guidance is a positive step towards your overall health and happiness.
SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood regulation. SSRIs are considered a first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and generally favorable side effect profile. They are typically started at a low dose that your doctor gradually increases. Examples of SSRIs used to treat anxiety include: escitalopram (Lexapro) fluoxetine (Prozac) paroxetine (Paxil) sertraline (Zoloft)
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat anxiety and insomnia by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA has a calming effect, and benzodiazepines amplify this response, resulting in reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sedation. Benzodiazepines help treat many kinds of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Examples of these drugs include: alprazolam (Xanax) clonazepam (Klonopin) diazepam (Valium) lorazepam (Ativan)
Buspirone
Buspirone is used to treat both short-term anxiety and chronic (long-lasting) anxiety disorders. It’s not fully understood how buspirone works, but it’s thought to affect chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. Buspirone can take up to several weeks to become fully effective. It’s available as a generic drug as well as the brand-name drug BuSpar.
Learn more about telepsychiatry
What is telepsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry is a form of mental health care that connects patients and psychiatric providers through secure video conferencing. It allows individuals to receive psychiatric evaluations, therapy sessions, and medication management without visiting a physical clinic.
What can telepsychiatry do?
- Diagnose mental health conditions
- Prescribe and manage medications
- Provide ongoing treatment and support
- Offer therapy sessions (in some cases)
Telepsychiatry is ideal for anyone who needs psychiatric care but prefers the flexibility of remote appointments.
Ready to find relief from anxiety?
Want help understanding your symptoms?
Talking to a psychiatrist is the best way. Not ready? Answer these 10 easy questions first.
Benefits of Telepsychiatry
Choosing telepsychiatry offers many advantages over traditional in-person visits:
✅ Convenience & Accessibility — Attend appointments from home, work, or on the go.
✅ Greater Privacy — No need to visit a clinic or office.
✅ More Affordable — Platinum Psychiatry’s flat-rate subscription model eliminates hidden costs.
✅ Faster Access — No long wait times for new patient appointments.
✅ Flexible Scheduling — Book sessions around your busy life.
✅ Continuity of Care — Ongoing communication with your provider between sessions.
Conditions Treated With Telepsychiatry
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions. They can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Through telepsychiatry, we help patients manage and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Types of Anxiety Disorders we treat:
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) — Chronic worry and tension, even without a specific cause.
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Panic Disorder — Sudden, intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
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Social Anxiety Disorder — Intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations.
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Specific Phobias — Extreme fear of a particular object or situation.
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Separation Anxiety Disorder — Fear of being away from loved ones or home.
Depression
Depression is more than just feeling sad; it can affect how you think, feel, and function in daily life. Our providers work closely with patients to identify the underlying causes of depression and offer treatment options to improve mood and quality of life.
Types of Depression we treat:
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Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and changes in appetite or sleep.
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Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) — Long-term, chronic depression lasting two years or more.
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Postpartum Depression — Depression following childbirth, impacting mood, energy, and ability to care for oneself or the baby.
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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — Depression related to seasonal changes, typically during fall and winter.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Telepsychiatry allows patients to receive consistent care and medication management to help stabilize their mood and improve their quality of life.
Types of Bipolar Disorder:
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Bipolar I Disorder — Manic episodes lasting at least seven days, often accompanied by depressive episodes.
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Bipolar II Disorder — Pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes without full-blown manic episodes.
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Cyclothymic Disorder — Milder mood swings that can still interfere with daily life.
ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It can impact school, work, and relationships. Our telepsychiatry services make it easier for patients of all ages to access diagnosis, medication management, and support.
Common Symptoms:
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Difficulty focusing or paying attention
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Forgetfulness
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Impulsivity
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Hyperactivity
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Struggling with organization and time management
PTSD
PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Through telepsychiatry, we provide treatment and support to help individuals process trauma, manage symptoms, and regain a sense of control.
Common PTSD Symptoms:
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Flashbacks and intrusive memories
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Nightmares
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Avoidance of triggers or reminders of the trauma
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Hypervigilance and heightened startle response
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Mood swings, anger, or numbness
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Our telepsychiatrists can help you manage OCD symptoms through medication and personalized treatment plans.
Common OCD Symptoms:
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Excessive fear of contamination
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Repeated checking behaviors
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Need for symmetry and order
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Intrusive, distressing thoughts
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Time-consuming rituals
How to Choose The Right TelepsychiatristÂ
When searching for a telepsychiatrist, it’s important to consider the following:
1. Credentials & Experience
Look for board-certified, licensed psychiatric providers who specialize in the conditions you need help with.
2. Approach to Care
Ensure your provider focuses on personalized treatment plans and long-term mental wellness.
3. Affordability & Insurance
Some telepsychiatry services require insurance or charge per visit. Platinum Psychiatry offers an all-inclusive subscription at $89/month with no insurance required.
4. Communication & Accessibility
Find a provider who encourages ongoing communication and follow-up, not just one-time appointments.
FIND A TELEPSYCHIATRIST NEAR YOU
Meet our brilliant team
Dr. Todd Shorten, DNP
Owner & Operator
Amber Fessette, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
nurse practitioner
Alisha Holben, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Nurse Practitioner
Get More Help
Free Anxiety Quiz
Take a fast and simple 10-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be related to anxiety.Â
Talk to One of Our Experts
Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.
Mental Health Articles & Resources
Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.
More Help & Resources
Take a fast and simple nine-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be clinical depression.Â
Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.
Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.