methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if a stimulant ADHD medication like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) may be right for you.
Treatment for:ADHD
585+ insurance plans accepted
Quickly confirm coverage or view self-pay rates
First, choose your state
You’ll get the most accurate information if we know where you’re seeking care, as insurance coverage and self-pay rates vary by state.
Then, pick a plan or self-pay
Below are the insurances we accept in your state. Don’t see yours listed or don’t have insurance? You can still get help through self-pay.
Great news! We’re in network with
*This is a common co-pay range for mental health services with an in-network provider; however, you may have a different co-pay or other out-of-pocket costs (such as a deductible), dependent upon your specific plan’s benefits. After confirming that the provider you’d like to work with accepts your plan (over the phone with our support team or on the provider’s profile), please contact your insurance to determine your exact financial responsibility, prior to scheduling.
Work with a provider who fits your needs — hand-selected by (or for) you.
You can choose therapy in person or online, whichever works best for you; psychiatry is exclusively online.
Receive help quickly — have your first session as soon as this week.
Individual & relationship counseling
Get individual therapy for depression, stress, and more (for yourself or your child/teen). Or, work through your unique relationship challenges in couples/marriage or family therapy.
first session
subsequent sessions
Psychiatry/medication management
Reduce or manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and ADHD, with psychiatric medication.
first session
subsequent sessions
Work with a provider who fits your needs — hand-selected by (or for) you.
You can choose therapy in person or online, whichever works best for you; psychiatry is exclusively online.
Receive help quickly — have your first session as soon as this week.
What is stimulant medication?
A stimulant is a class of medication that is primarily used to treat ADHD. This medication is classified as a controlled substance, meaning it has special requirements for prescribing and dispensing due to its potential for misuse.
How does a stimulant work?
Stimulants work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This is helpful to reduce severity and frequency of symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity and to improve overall functioning.
How prescribing works
-
1
Find a provider who meets your needs
Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).
-
2
Meet 1:1 to begin treatment
Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.
-
3
Attend sessions and start feeling better
Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.
FAQs
What is methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) used for?
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant used to help manage common symptoms of ADHD, like difficulty focusing. It may also be used to treat narcolepsy.
Is methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) the same as ritalin?
Methylphenidate is a stimulant medication used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Ritalin and Concerta are brand name medications which contain methylphenidate as an active ingredient.
How long does methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) last?
Methylphenidate is available in multiple forms. The immediate release tablet treats symptoms for 4-6 hours while the extended-release tablet can be effective for up to 14 hours.
Does methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) cause weight gain or loss?
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate are known to cause loss of appetite which may lead to weight loss. If you have concerns about managing your weight while taking this medication, consult with your provider.
How long does methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) stay in your system?
Several factors will impact how long any medication stays in your system. Typically, methylphenidate will be completely out of your system in 24 to 48 hours.
Is methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) a controlled substance?
Yes, methylphenidate is classified as a controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for risk and abuse. Federal and state laws govern how these medications can be prescribed and dispensed.
Can I get a prescription online?
You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.
Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?
Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.
How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?
Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.
We offer psychiatry in these select states
Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.
Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.
Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer
