What do psychiatrists do?
If you’re struggling with your mental health, seeing a psychiatrist can be really helpful. Psychiatrists are doctors who specialise in mental health. They can both prescribe medication and provide psychological therapy, and they can work with you to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Here’s everything you need to know about psychiatrists: who they are, when to see one, what to expect, and how to get started.
This article covers:
What is a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed extra training to specialise in mental health. In Australia, this means they have completed a six-year medical degree at university and another six years of training specialising in psychiatry.
Psychiatrists are experts in both mental and physical health. Unlike psychologists or counsellors, they can prescribe and monitor medication as well as providing diagnosis, assessment and psychological therapies. Some people see both – a psychiatrist to help with medication, and a psychologist for therapy.
Why would I see a psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists are best suited to help when your mental health symptoms are severe, ongoing or hard to manage with therapy alone. For example, you might see a psychiatrist if you have:
ongoing or severe depression or anxiety
bipolar disorder
psychotic disorders
eating disorders
obsessive-compulsive disorder
personality disorders
thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Depending on what’s going on for you, you may need to see a psychologist instead of, or as well as, a psychiatrist. Psychologists can help with talking about what is happening and helping to identify strategies, while a psychiatrist can help if you have severe symptoms that may require medication. The first step is to talk to your GP, who can help you decide what’s the next right step for you.
What's it like to see a psychiatrist?
Your first session might feel a bit intense. It usually involves a detailed mental health assessment so that the psychiatrist can understand what you’re going through and how best to help you.
Here’s what to expect during your first session:
They’ll explain your confidentiality rights – what’s private, what might be shared if you or someone else is at risk of harm, and when your parents or carers might be involved (especially if you’re under 18).
They’ll complete a detailed personal assessment by asking you lots of questions about your background and history, and what’s currently going on in your life. They might use this to make a diagnosis.
They’ll come up with a plan for you that may involve therapy sessions, medication, or both. Medication is usually most effective when combined with psychological therapy.
What if my psychiatrist prescribes medication but I’m not ready to take it?
You don't have to agree to start taking medication. That decision is yours alone, or it may also involve your parents or carers. You can also get another opinion from a different psychiatrist.
Before making a decision about taking medication, you should discuss with your psychiatrist or GP what the medication is meant to do and whether it has any potential side-effects. Check out our page on medication for more information about this.
How much does it cost to see a psychiatrist?
The fee for seeing a psychiatrist can vary. Here’s how it works:
If you see a psychiatrist through a public hospital, it’s free.
Private psychiatrists often charge a fee, but Medicare will cover part of it. Ask the psychiatrist how much you’ll get back.
Some private psychiatrists bulk bill, which means it’s free for you – you’ll just need your Medicare card. You can find out your Medicare number by ringing Medicare on 132 011 or by looking at your family’s Medicare card. Once you're 15 years old, you can get your own card.
Always ask about costs before your first appointment.
How do I make an appointment?
The best place to start is with your GP, who can provide you with a mental health care plan and refer you to a psychiatrist. You will normally have to book an appointment, but if you’re feeling desperate, tell them it's urgent and they might be able to clear a spot or send you to someone who is available right away.
How do I choose the right psychiatrist for me?
No matter what the reason, it’s important to find a psychiatrist you like and trust. Not every psychiatrist is going to be a good fit, and it can take a few tries before you find someone you connect with. Here are some things to think about when you’re deciding if a psychiatrist is a good fit for you:
Do they have experience of working with young people and helping with the issues they face?
How do they approach treatment? Some focus more on medication management, while others offer therapy or may collaborate with therapists.
Do you feel like they really listen to you, explain things clearly and make you feel comfortable?
Trust your instincts. If you don’t feel a connection or a sense of trust with a psychiatrist after a few sessions, it’s okay to look for someone else. Finding the right match can take time, but it’s worth it.
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What can I do now?
Call Lifeline or Kids Helpline if you need someone to talk to right away.
Find a psychiatrist near you.
Read more on mental health professionals.