What Does a Psychiatrist Do?
What Does a Psychiatrist Do?
Blog Article
Psychiatrists are medical doctors, and their education and training equip them to understand the complex relationship between mental and physical health. They are able to order lab tests and perform a physical exam, which helps them build a complete picture of a person's condition. They use this information along with their knowledge of mental illness to make a diagnosis, which is used by both patients and insurance companies for reimbursement purposes. They can also consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to find specific descriptions, symptoms and criteria for diagnoses.
Unlike psychologists, who are ideal for treating individuals with mild mental health concerns, psychiatrists are best for those with more serious issues. They can prescribe medication, and are well-versed in psychotherapy treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Psychotherapy is a series of regularly scheduled meetings between the patient and physician where they discuss troubling feelings and problems. Depending on the severity of the issue, these sessions can be brief or long-lasting, and may involve one-on-one treatment, group therapy or family counseling.
Some psychiatrists work in private practice, much like other physicians, but others work in the public sector at hospitals and government-run community mental health services. Some even take on additional professional roles such as advocacy, research or teaching, and many are involved in a combination of these.
After completing their medical degree, Psychiatrist typically spend at least 4 years in a residency program, during which they treat real-life patients and gain experience in the field. Some choose to specialize in a particular area, such as child and adolescent psychiatry or forensic psychiatry. Others may focus on an age group, such as the elderly or those with a chronic illness.
Once they've completed their residency, a Psychiatrist can apply for board certification from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, which includes a written and oral examination. Those who successfully pass this exam are referred to as "board-certified" psychiatrists, and must be re-certified every 10 years.
As a psychiatrist, you'll work with both children and adults, as well as with families. You'll have the opportunity to treat a wide range of conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders and substance abuse issues. You'll be able to help people with mental illness and improve their quality of life, which is why this job can be so rewarding.
Whether you're interested in psychology or psychiatry, there's no doubt that both careers offer an incredibly rewarding and meaningful lifestyle. If you want to be a part of this important field, start by researching what qualifications you need. Then, talk to a counselor or psychologist about how you can get started on your path to becoming a psychiatrist. Report this page