What Are Psychiatrists, And What Can A Psychiatrist Do?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors working in the field of psychology. They are not the same as psychologists, although they may engage in similar therapeutic practices due to their advanced medical qualifications. Before you make an appointment with a psychiatrist, it may be helpful to understand what psychiatrists do and how they can help you.
Psychiatrists – Medical doctors and mental health providers
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in treating and diagnosing mental health disorders. Psychiatrists attend medical school, attend a residency, and can prescribe medication, order tests, and solicit patient referrals.
Some psychiatrists use psychotherapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, much like a therapist might. However, many psychiatrists focus only on the medical aspects of mental health, leaving psychotherapy to therapists or psychologists who work as part of a treatment team.
Psychiatrist career outlook
A psychiatrist career is often a long-term track. After several years in medical school and residency programs, psychiatrists may practice for decades before retiring. About 44,000 psychiatrists are practicing throughout the United States. Considering that one in five adults experiences symptoms of a mental illness each year, the demand for psychiatrists may continue to grow.
Where do psychiatrists work?
Psychiatrists can work in different venues and industries. A psychiatrist may treat patients in behavioral health centers, for instance, while also maintaining their own non-public office. They may also work in hospitals or emergency rooms.
Some psychiatrists work in research, assisting in clinical studies for new medications and psychotherapies. Some professionals also supplement their income by teaching at universities or facilitating educational workshops and training for other providers.
What can a psychiatrist do to become licensed?
To become a psychiatrist, an individual must complete medical school. Psychiatrists are medical doctors, unlike most other mental health professionals (for example, psychologists, who typically have a doctoral degree in clinical psychology). After taking four years of college courses, often on the pre-med track, psychiatrists undergo four additional years of medical school. After this time, the psychiatrist may undergo additional schooling to specialize in a specific area, such as geriatric psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, or addiction psychiatry.
What happens after psychiatry or medical school for psychiatrists?
After medical school, psychiatrists undergo an additional four years of extensive training in a residency program. Once their training is complete, they must pass a written and oral examination to become certified by the American Board of Psychiatry. This certification must be renewed every ten years.
What can a psychiatrist do?
A day in the life of a psychiatrist can vary depending on their specialty, the venue in which they provide their services, and whether they work in research or clinical practice.
For example, a psychiatrist who specializes in geriatric psychiatry and conducts clinical trials in research facilities will have different responsibilities than one who treats eating disorders in non-public practice. Below, we’re answering the question: What can a psychiatrist do?
Treating eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and other mental health disorders through psychiatry
As part of their practice, many psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental disorders and mental illness. This can include addiction, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, and much more.
They may do this in non-public practice, clinics, or hospitals. They may also work for government agencies, helping treat individuals in the legal or correctional system. Psychiatrists treat mental health conditions through medication management, talk therapy, and other modalities.
Understanding the connection between physical and mental health in psychiatry
Psychiatrists can address concerns related to mental health, problems with physical well-being, and comorbid challenges. Because psychiatrists understand the connections between physical and mental health, they can help other professionals address complications that may arise out of that relationship. Consultation-liaison psychiatry is a specialty in which psychiatrists help treat mental health conditions in individuals who may be undergoing other medical treatments for a comorbid condition. For example, a consultation-liaison psychiatrist may help a primary healthcare provider manage depression in an individual being treated for diabetes (two commonly comorbid conditions).
The day-to-day of a psychiatrist
Psychiatrists often spend a portion of their day preparing for their next round of patients. Some psychiatrists have many patients, so they may spend a brief time reviewing the patient's file before a session to refamiliarize themselves with their case.
Are there administrative duties involved in psychiatry?
In addition to meeting with patients, prescribing medications, and engaging in psychotherapy, psychiatrists might be responsible for making careful notes and keeping every patient's medical records up to date. They may also send prescriptions through electronic delivery systems, talk to pharmacies to resolve prescription-related challenges, and handle incoming calls from patients with medication challenges.
Psychiatric research on mood disorders, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and more
Psychiatric research is an important field, helping professionals better understand certain psychiatric disorders and develop effective medical treatments. Psychiatrists in this field may conduct imaging studies to learn more about the neurobiology of behavioral disorders; or they may conduct clinical trials on a medication for a specific mental health condition, like bipolar disorder.
The differences between various mental health professionals
While psychiatrists, therapists, and psychologists can all guide clients in learning to manage mental illness, only a psychiatrist can offer treatment advice. The benefit of working with a psychiatrist in addition to a therapist is the additional resources available. For example, if your psychiatrist thinks you may benefit from medication, you can take meds that may assist you in completing therapy successfully. However, consult your doctor before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.
Can you see a psychiatrist and a therapist?
Unlike therapists, psychiatrists can prescribe medications for mental health disorders. These professionals can also diagnose patients, run lab tests, manage medications, and adjust medications accordingly based on results and side effects. Therapists cannot prescribe medications, order medical tests, or work as a doctor.
How much does a psychiatrist cost?
Psychiatrists have varying costs depending on the area of the country you live in, their experience, and the services you're paying for. However, the average cost of a psychiatrist maybe $500 for an initial consultation and $100 per additional follow-up appointment. Insurance plans often offer coverage for psychiatry visits, which can significantly lower their cost.
Affordable mental health options for those without health insurance
Finding the right psychiatrist or professional for you
By providing you with the resources to treat your symptoms, psychiatrists can help you become a healthier, more confident version of yourself. Likewise, talking to a psychiatrist may be the first step toward receiving diagnoses, medical treatment, and connections to other professionals.
In addition to working with a psychiatrist, speaking to a therapist to develop long-term behavioral techniques to manage mental health symptoms can be helpful. Though a therapist is not the same as a psychiatrist, they may be able to support you in ways a psychiatrist can't. For example, therapy may help you identify which challenges you face, what you can do to cope, and how you can find balance.
Online therapy
Supporting research
Takeaway
What tests do psychiatrists do for anxiety?
There are many types of psychological testing used to evaluate anxiety. Here are a few examples:
- Questionnaires: Some screening tools include the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Questionnaire, the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, the Social Phobia Inventory, Penn State Worry Questionnaire, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory.
- Rating scales: Providers may use the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, or the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale.
- Evaluation of physical health: Sometimes, underlying physical illnesses, medications, or lifestyle choices (like excess caffeine consumption) can lead to similar symptoms. A medical practitioner may conduct a physical exam or order testing to rule out conditions like hyperthyroidism.
Providers will likely ask questions about your symptoms, triggers, how long you’ve been experiencing anxiety and your family history. After providing an anxiety diagnosis, they may recommend prescription medications, psychotherapy (commonly called talk therapy), and self-care. In some cases, complementary treatments like acupuncture, massage therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation may be recommended.
Can you tell a psychiatrist anything about your mental health?
A person’s mental health is most likely to benefit from therapy when there’s a strong, trusting therapeutic alliance. Concealment is both a legal and ethical requirement for licensed therapists—such as clinical psychologists or licensed professional counselors—to uphold unless there is a specific exception (such as an imminent danger to the client, others, or in instances of child abuse).
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of mental disorders. They also have a strict code of ethics to uphold patient comfort and must follow laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Is it worth talking to a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in mental health?
Yes, it can be beneficial to talk to a psychiatrist. These professionals must complete medical school to practice medicine and then complete a psychiatry residency and pass board examinations to become board-certified psychiatrists.
Psychiatrists can prescribe medicine, and they often subspecialize. This gives patients the option to work with highly specialized mental disorder doctors like an adolescent psychiatrist, geriatric psychiatrist, addiction psychiatrist, or neuropsychiatrist.
What doctor should I see if I think I have anxiety or other mental health conditions, including substance use disorders?
An in-person licensed mental health professional or medical practitioner can likely evaluate your concerns or recommend another provider. Here’s how a few might approach your appointment:
- Primary care provider: Your primary care provider is a good place to start if you have mental health concerns. They may conduct a physical examination or order testing to rule out other conditions, and they may be able to provide a recommendation and/or referral for a psychiatrist or mental health professional.
- Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist is a professional with a medical degree. They may work in a variety of settings, such as hospital settings, own practice, or hospice programs. They usually spend the first appointment evaluating your symptoms, making a diagnosis, and recommending a treatment plan.
- Psychologist: These professionals hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in counseling psychology. They can diagnose mental disorders, but in most states, they cannot prescribe medications. Sessions typically focus on using therapeutic techniques to address thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are causing distress.
- Licensed therapist: These professionals hold at least a master’s degree in a mental health-related field and undergo hours of supervised therapy and testing to get their license. Because they are not medical practitioners, they typically cannot prescribe medications.
What not to say during a psychiatrist’s eval?
Some things to avoid saying during a psychiatrist's evaluation include:
- Downplaying or exaggerating your symptoms
- Trying to say the “right” thing or self-diagnose
- Trying to impress them
- Lying
Psychiatrists have specialized training to evaluate patients and recommend treatment options. Your full and honest participation will help them make an accurate diagnosis.
Should I see a neurologist or a psychiatrist for anxiety?
In general, it’s recommended that you see a psychiatrist (a physician who practices medicine focused on mental disorders) or a licensed mental health professional (like a therapist or counselor) when experiencing behavioral or emotional difficulties. Some types of therapy to consider for anxiety include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or family therapy.
A neurologist is a physician who specializes in conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. For example, they might evaluate patients with suspected conditions like dementia, migraines, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or a brain tumor.
There are some instances where it may be beneficial to see a neurologist for anxiety symptoms. For example, your primary care physician may refer you to a neurologist if they suspect a neurological condition underlying your anxiety symptoms (such as multiple sclerosis).
If a neurologist rules out underlying conditions, they may refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist, and they may discuss pharmacotherapy, such as antidepressants, sleep medicine, anti-anxiety medications, or, less commonly, pain medicine.
How do you get referred to a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O.) specializing in mental health?
In general, it’s recommended that you speak with your primary care physician to get referred to a psychiatrist (psychiatrists specialize in mental health). According to the American Psychiatric Association, this type of doctor holds an M.D. or D.O. degree and completes residency training in mental health. Psychiatrists can address both the mental and physical aspects of psychological issues.
There are many situations in which your general practitioner may recommend a psychiatrist. For example, if mental health challenges impact your everyday life or you have significant, complex symptoms that have been resistant to talk therapy, it might be time to see a psychiatrist.
What makes you fail a psychiatrist’s test?
You cannot “fail” a psychological test, as these types of testing tools are used to evaluate symptoms (usually on a scale), to help gauge your symptoms and make a diagnosis. Your provider will use tests, questionnaires, and other information to develop an understanding of your current psychological state and identify potential areas of concern.
Based on all the information they gather, your psychiatrist can do things like make a diagnosis, recommend a treatment course, and prescribe medications.
Do psychiatrists deal with addiction including substance use disorders?
Yes, psychiatrists often treat patients with substance use disorders (SUDs). Some psychiatrists subspecialize in the field of “addiction psychiatry,” which provides them with additional training and education to treat patients with SUDs and co-occurring psychiatric disorders.
In some cases, psychiatrists may refer patients to rehabilitation programs after consultation for the treatment of substance use disorders.
Who is better for anxiety psychologist or a psychiatrist?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are several factors to consider when deciding to see a psychologist or a psychiatrist for anxiety:
- Symptom complexity: Psychiatrists typically treat more complex conditions, such as co-occurring disorders, treatment-resistant conditions, and those requiring medical treatment (like electroconvulsive therapy). Psychologists and other types of licensed therapists are typically best if you’re seeking talk therapy.
- Medication: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Psychologists can typically diagnose disorders but they’re usually unable to prescribe medications.
If you’re unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychiatrist or another mental health professional, consider making an appointment with your primary care provider. They can assess your symptoms and make a recommendation.
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