Psychiatrist
A physician specialising in mental health: diagnoses mental disorders and can prescribe medication as well as medical follow-up.
What that means
A psychiatrist is a physician who has specialised in mental health. They therefore combine what medicine allows — diagnosis, medication, medical follow-up — with expertise centred on mental disorders.
It is the profession to turn to when the medical question is front and centre.
When to turn to a psychiatrist
- A medical diagnosis or a medication adjustment is at stake.
- Regular medical follow-up is needed.
- Another professional has referred you for a specialised assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Psychiatrist or psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a physician and can prescribe; a psychologist cannot and holds a doctorate in psychology. Both work on mental health, with different means.
Is a referral required?
Access to psychiatry most often goes through a medical referral. Terms vary by practice setting.
Checking that a professional is in good standing
Every professional order keeps a public register of its members: that is where you confirm someone holds the right to practise. On PsyPsy, this check is done upfront — the licence and membership in the order are validated before a professional can contact anyone.
PsyPsy is not an emergency service
PsyPsy connects people; it does not provide care and makes no diagnosis. In an emergency, call 911. To speak with someone now: Info-Social 811, option 2.
Find an available psychiatrist
Submit an anonymous request. Verified professionals with availability will contact you — you then choose freely.
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