Psychiatrist
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What Do They Do?
What do they do?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors with at least 11 years of training – usually more.
They first do a medical degree at university. Next they spend at least 1 or 2 years training as a general doctor.
They then complete at least 5 years training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.
(Reference: The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists)
How Can They Help?
How can they help?
Psychiatrists can provide a wide range of treatments, according to the particular problem and what will work best for you and your situation. These include:
- medication
- general medical care, including checking your physical health and the effects of medication
- psychological treatments
- brain stimulation therapies such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Psychiatrists tend to treat people who need their medical, psychological and social needs considered.
(Reference: The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists)
How Do I Find One?
How do I find one?
As with all medical specialists, to see a psychiatrist you will need a referral from your GP.
To access an online directory of Psychiatrists in Australia and New Zealand, see: Your Health in Mind – Find a Psychiatrist
