Psychiater

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness, emotional disturbance, and abnormal behavior. They are licensed physicians who can prescribe medications, order medical tests, and provide psychotherapy. In some languages, including Dutch and Danish, the term “psychiater” or “psykiater” is used for the same profession.

Training typically begins with earning a medical degree, followed by a residency in psychiatry that lasts several years. In many countries, board certification is available or required for certain positions.

Psychiatrists perform psychiatric evaluations, assess risk, and develop treatment plans. They may provide pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or a combination, and can order and interpret laboratory tests and brain imaging. They may also administer or refer for procedures such as electroconvulsive therapy or other neuromodulation therapies where available.

Subspecialties include child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, and consultation-liaison psychiatry. Psychiatrists work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, academic centers, and private practice.

The field emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach and collaboration with other health professionals, including psychologists, social workers, nurses, and primary care providers. The discipline has been shaped by the development of psychopharmacology, evolving diagnostic systems such as the DSM and ICD, and ongoing debates about treatment, ethics, and patient care.