The Role of a Psychiatrist & How to Prepare

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who did special training in psychiatric diseases and medications. A psychiatrist will meet with a patient between every three weeks and three months to ensure the medications prescribed are working – as well as addressing any negative symptoms and/or side effects.

How to talk with your psychiatrist…

• Go in with questions.
• Ask about medications. What are they? What are they for?
• Ask about your diagnosis.
• Be honest. The psychiatrist cannot help you if you’re not honest.
• Do not be afraid to call the psychiatrist if you’re experiencing an acute event.

What else should you know?

• Usually, there is a wait list.
• Appointments aren’t very long. For the first appointment, it may last an hour. For the remainder of appointments, they may last 10-15 minutes.
• Most psychiatrists are not therapists.

Finding a psychiatrist…

• Speak with your physician.
• psychologytoday.com
• goodtherapy.org