Core Role and Training

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who complete medical school followed by a residency in psychiatry. Because of their medical training, they can evaluate how physical health, medications, and biological factors interact with mental health symptoms.

Diagnosis and Medical Treatment

Psychiatrists diagnose mental health conditions and can prescribe and manage psychiatric medications, order lab work or imaging when relevant, and treat complex or severe presentations that may involve a biological component.

Working Alongside Other Professionals

Many psychiatrists focus primarily on diagnosis and medication management, referring patients to psychologists or therapists for ongoing talk therapy, while continuing to oversee the medical aspects of treatment.

When to See One

A psychiatric evaluation is often recommended for moderate to severe symptoms, when medication may be beneficial, when a diagnosis is unclear, or when a person is already in therapy but symptoms are not improving.

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