A psychiatrist is a medical doctor: they first studied general medicine and then completed several years of specialist training in psychiatry. That is why they can assess mental health problems from a medical perspective, consider the link between body and mind and prescribe medication where appropriate.
Many people think seeing a psychiatrist means "definitely medication". That is not true. After an assessment a psychiatrist may suggest psychotherapy, lifestyle changes or working with a psychologist. Any treatment decision is made through discussion and with your consent.
Something else may fit better if…
The first visit is usually a full assessment: symptoms, physical and mental health history, current medications, family history and life circumstances. Sometimes tests or coordination with a family doctor are needed. The psychiatrist then explains their understanding and goes through treatment options with you.
If medication is suggested, the psychiatrist explains its purpose, possible effects and side effects and reviews progress at follow up appointments. Never start or stop medication on your own; any change should be agreed with a doctor.
How this compares: psychologists and counsellors are not physicians and do not prescribe; their focus is talk therapy. A psychiatrist is a physician and can consider both sides. Whether an online psychiatrist may prescribe where you live depends on that country's rules.
The first online visit is often longer, and follow ups are usually shorter and a few weeks apart. Having a list of your medications and medical history to hand helps.
Everyone responds to treatment differently and adjusting it can take time. A psychiatrist cannot guarantee the outcome in advance but follows the process with you.
Examples are fictional and illustrative.
Farhad in London has slept badly for months and his mood keeps dropping. His psychologist suggests he also consult a psychiatrist. After an assessment the psychiatrist explains the options and the two professionals continue in coordination. This is a fictional example.
Elham started a medication years ago in Iran and now, in Germany, does not know whether to continue. She talks through her history with a Persian speaking psychiatrist so she can decide with full information. This story is invented.
Kian has periods full of energy and little sleep, followed by heavy, sad periods. The psychiatrist does a careful assessment and suggests a regular follow up plan. This example is for illustration only.
These therapists list this on their profile. All sessions are online and in Persian.
No. A psychiatrist may or may not suggest medication. The decision is made after assessment, through discussion and with your consent.
Yes, and this combination is common. The psychiatrist looks after the medical side and the psychologist the talk therapy, coordinating with your permission.
That depends on the rules where you live and on the psychiatrist's licence. Ask before the session; sometimes a prescription has to go through a local doctor.
If symptoms are severe, long lasting or come with physical changes, or you have questions about medication, a psychiatrist is a good choice. For many other concerns, starting with a psychologist or counsellor also makes sense.
This page is general information and does not replace a professional assessment. If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact your local emergency services. Urgent help
