Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

747 people sought psychiatry/medication help at McLean in the last year

Discover how starting psychiatry/medication therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

Good news! We have 122 psychiatric NPs in Virginia available for an online or in-person session.

Starting Psychiatry/medication

What is psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses specifically on the medical and psychotherapeutic treatment of mental conditions and disorders.

How does psychiatry work?

Psychiatry allows people struggling to manage mental conditions or disorders to get access to medications that will make daily functioning easier, as well as work through any mental factors that might be causing or worsening their condition. Though medications can't cure mental disorders, medication can make symptoms more manageable, making the process of psychotherapeutic treatment easier and more effective. Psychiatric care can be available through in-person psychiatry and online psychiatry, depending on where you live and your own preferences. However, psychiatric providers at Thriveworks in McLean, VA specifically offer online psychiatry to their clients.

Does psychiatry deal with anxiety?

Psychiatrists are among the mental health professionals who can prescribe anxiety medication, and they are also capable of offering therapeutic treatment for anxiety as well, though not every psychiatric professional offers therapy. Medication management can be offered via in-person or online psychiatry.

What is the difference between a mental health therapist and psychiatrist?

A therapist has an education specifically rooted in therapeutic practice, approaches, techniques, and treatment. They cannot prescribe medications for clients, thought they often refer clients to psychiatrists for medication management. Psychiatrists are medically trained doctors who specialize in mental health treatment, mainly through medication management and prescription, though they can also practice therapy.

What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychologists and psychiatrists receive differing educations, as psychologists are not medically trained the same way that psychiatrists are. Psychologists mainly specialize in providing therapy services and diagnoses for mental disorders — something that most therapists cannot provide — while psychiatrists manage medications and sometimes provide therapy services. The main difference is that psychologists (generally) cannot prescribe medications the way psychiatrists can.

Do psychiatric NPs treat mental disorders?

Psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) treat and diagnose disorders, prescribe and manage medications, and offer psychotherapy services, too.

How do psychiatriac providers diagnose?

Oftentimes, psychiatrists or psychiatric professionals will perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, which involves an in-depth discussion about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications. Once they reach a diagnosis, they may suggest starting certain medications depending on your condition and the intensity of your symptoms.

Is psychiatry/medication conducted in person or online?

At Thriveworks, we offer online psychiatry as well as in-person therapy services for optimal comfort and convenience.

How long does psychiatry last?

Psychiatric services at Thriveworks McLean can last for as little or as much time as the client needs to reach their treatment goals, whether that be a month or two or over the course of years. treatment length is heavily dependent on the condition(s) being treated, the course of treatment, and the client's goals for treatment.

Need more help deciding?

Life throws challenges and obstacles our way. Luckily, counseling is designed to help people work through those challenges and learn how to prepare for future conflicts that come up. Whether you are struggling with relationship problems, everyday stresses, or mental health conditions, there are treatment options for you. Working with a psychiatrist is one of them. Psychiatrists and nurse practitioners are credentialed and trained in knowing when a client needs medication, what medication would work best for them, how much medication they need, and how often they should take it.

A feeling is no longer the same when it comes the second time.

It dies through the awareness of its return. We become tired and

weary of our feelings when they come too often and last too long.”

–Pascal Mercier

Here at Thriveworks McLean Counseling in the Fairfax area, we are happy to offer online medication management to our clients. Your psychiatrist will be able to help you conveniently via telephone or video chat. If you are having symptoms of a mental health condition that may require treatment in the form of therapy or medication, consider reaching out to Thriveworks McLean. Call (571) 589-4042 to connect with one of our scheduling specialists who can get you started.

Who Can Medication Management Benefit?

Medication management is designed to help people manage their medication. Our psychiatrists and nurse practitioners, once getting to know you and your individual needs and goals, will be able to decide which medication would work best for you. There are many different reasons why someone may seek the help of a psychiatrist, some of them being:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • PTSD or trauma
  • Eating disorders
  • Addiction or substance abuse

If medication is the right option for you, it’s important to disclose any of your health histories to ensure that the wrong medication is not prescribed. Make sure you provide any information regarding medications you are already taking, any allergies you have currently or have had in the past, and ask your psychiatrist any specific questions you may have prior to starting a new medication.

People often assume that only the most severe of mental illnesses require medication. This is not always true. People who have mild cases of their mental illness can also greatly benefit from using medication alongside their counseling sessions. This depends on each individual, their challenges, and past treatment history. For example:

Mike struggles with severe anxiety and can’t remember the last time he went a whole day without feeling so anxious that it causes him to shut down and retreat home. Savannah also has anxiety, but on a milder basis. She’s able to perform day to day tasks but has episodes of anxiety when she feels stressed, has a bad memory, or is meeting someone new for the first time.

While both people battle anxiety differently, they could both benefit from a medication that helps them control their symptoms and live a happier, more productive life.

Benefits of Working with an Online Psychiatrist

Tackling personal and mental health issues can be hard, especially to do alone. When taking medication is the right path for you, it’s crucial to be open and honest about your experiences. Some different medications that you might be prescribed by a nurse practitioner or psychiatrist may include:

  • Mood stabilizers
  • Cognitive enhancers
  • Antidepressants

At Thriveworks McLean Counseling, we have a client-centered approach to care. We believe that we can accompany and help you on your mental health journey, and we dedicate ourselves to providing you with the tools, resources, and guidance you need. Open communication is important in medication management so please do not hesitate to say something if you feel like a different medication might work better for you or if you are having unwanted side effects.

Working with a psychiatrist online goes beyond just the benefits of accurately and safely managing your medications. The ability to speak with your psychiatrist from home, work, or virtually anywhere else in the world is convenient, comfortable, and reliable. It eliminates the need for driving to an office and you don’t have to worry about outside factors like weather, traffic, or having to stay late at work.

Schedule an Appointment with an Online Psychiatrist at Thriveworks McLean, VA

Here at Thriveworks McLean Counseling in the Fairfax area, we believe that everyone deserves the proper treatment and help they need to battle the issues they are experiencing. If you feel like you could benefit from working with a psychiatrist or nurse practitioner for your mental illness, consider reaching out. We have flexible scheduling to include regular daytime hours, evenings, and weekends. To get started, visit our online booking system or by calling (571) 589-4042. We can’t wait to hear from you and start this journey together.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Virginia therapists and counselors accept 31 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS HMO

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield DC | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

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Self-pay costs at McLean
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

5.0 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
My therapist is great. They aren't pushy and just ask questions that get me thinking. I feel like I am getting a little guidance to help me find my own path rather than being lead in a predetermined direction.
Read more My therapist is great. They aren't pushy and just ask questions that get me thinking. I feel like I am getting a little guidance to help me find my own path rather than being lead in a predetermined direction.
Benjamin Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Anna is incredibly respectful, professional, and compassionate. She has a strong dedication to operational and clinical excellence. Anna has proven successful outcomes for clients that she has treated. Anna is extremely knowledgeable with numerous clinics interventions and modalities. Her drive to help others is unmatched, and I believe she would make an excellent addition to the thrive works community.
Read more Anna is incredibly respectful, professional, and compassionate. She has a strong dedication to operational and clinical excellence. Anna has proven successful outcomes for clients that she has treated. Anna is extremely knowledgeable with numerous clinics interventions and modalities. Her drive to help others is unmatched, and I believe she would make an excellent addition to the thrive works community.
McLean Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Anna is wonderful! She brings her kindness, humor and tons of experience to her counseling relationships, and yet in her kind way she also knows when to call it how she sees it in a way that does not make you feel judged and makes you feel understood. Highly recommend.
Read more Anna is wonderful! She brings her kindness, humor and tons of experience to her counseling relationships, and yet in her kind way she also knows when to call it how she sees it in a way that does not make you feel judged and makes you feel understood. Highly recommend.
McLean Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
As a colleague, I cannot recommend Anna enough to anyone looking for a therapist. I have worked with Anna for years and trust her completely. Anna is warm, welcoming, and professional. She also has a multitude of experience working with diverse populations and is eclectic in her approach, getting to know her clients and utilizing tools and skills that she know will work best for their situation.
Read more As a colleague, I cannot recommend Anna enough to anyone looking for a therapist. I have worked with Anna for years and trust her completely. Anna is warm, welcoming, and professional. She also has a multitude of experience working with diverse populations and is eclectic in her approach, getting to know her clients and utilizing tools and skills that she know will work best for their situation.
McLean Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Are you looking for an excellent therapist? I cannot recommend Anna Sihon enough. She's open, patient, non-judgemental, has a great sense of humor, and is extremely culturally competent (especially with the Latinx community).
Read more Are you looking for an excellent therapist? I cannot recommend Anna Sihon enough. She's open, patient, non-judgemental, has a great sense of humor, and is extremely culturally competent (especially with the Latinx community).
McLean Dec 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have worked with Dr. Jonies Thomas over the years in a professional capacity, and have only good things about her. She has an engaging and patient interpersonal style that resonated with our patients. She brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to any interaction, and it is clear that she is passionate about what she does.
Read more I have worked with Dr. Jonies Thomas over the years in a professional capacity, and have only good things about her. She has an engaging and patient interpersonal style that resonated with our patients. She brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to any interaction, and it is clear that she is passionate about what she does.
McLean Jul 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean is located off of Dolley Madison Blvd., at the intersection of Old Chain Bridge Rd and Fleetwood Rd., in Building A. We share a building with two real estate agents from Long and Foster Real Estate.

Phone number

(571) 200-5518

Languages spoken by VA providers

Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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