What Is a Psychiatrist? Roles, Treatments & Online Care in India

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists or therapists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication as well as provide therapy, making them uniquely qualified to address both the medical and psychological aspects of mental health.

If you’ve ever wondered “Do I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?” or “What exactly does a psychiatrist do?”. Many people are unsure about when to seek psychiatric help or what to expect from treatment.

In this guide, I’ll explain what psychiatrists do, the conditions they treat, the types of psychiatry specialties, and when it might be the right time to see one.

— Dr. Rishab Verma, Certified Psychiatrist (7+ Years of Experience)

What is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or equivalent) who specializes in mental health. Their work focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect emotions, behavior, and thinking.

Unlike other mental health professionals, psychiatrists have full medical training. This means they can:

• Perform physical exams and order medical tests.
• Use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to make accurate diagnoses.
• Prescribe medications such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics.
• Provide psychotherapy (talk therapy) in addition to medical treatment.
• Coordinate with other healthcare providers to give patients holistic care.

In simple terms, psychiatrists bridge the gap between medicine and psychology. They address both the biological and emotional roots of mental health conditions, helping patients recover and manage symptoms over time.

How Psychiatrists Differ from Psychologists and Therapists

Many people confuse psychiatrists with psychologists or therapists, but their roles are different.

Psychiatrist

• A medical doctor (MD or equivalent).
• Can diagnose complex mental health conditions.
• Can prescribe medication as well as provide therapy.
• Focuses on both the biological and psychological aspects of mental health.
  

Psychologist

• Holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology.
• Specializes in psychotherapy, psychological testing, and research.
• Generally cannot prescribe medication (with limited exceptions in some regions).

Therapist or Counselor

• Typically holds a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or psychology.
• Provides talk therapy and coping strategies for emotional and behavioral issues.
• Cannot prescribe medication.

👉 In short: psychiatrists are doctors who can treat mental health medically and psychologically, while psychologists and therapists focus on therapy and behavioral support.

What Conditions Do Psychiatrists Treat?

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions, including:

• Depression and Mood Disorders – including major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder.
  
• Anxiety Disorders – generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobias, social anxiety.
  
• Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders – OCD, hoarding disorder, body dysmorphic disorder.
  
• Trauma and Stress-Related Disorders – PTSD, adjustment disorders.
  
• Psychotic Disorders – schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder.
  
• Personality Disorders – borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, and others.
  
• Eating Disorders – anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder.
  
• Addiction and Substance Use Disorders – alcohol use disorder, drug addiction, gambling disorder.
  
• Attention and Behavioral Disorders – ADHD, impulse-control disorders.
  
• Dissociative Disorders – conditions that disrupt identity or memory.
  
• Sleep Disorders – insomnia, circadian rhythm issues, parasomnias.
  
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders – autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities.
  
• Neurocognitive Disorders – dementia, Alzheimer’s disease.
  

👉 Plus, psychiatrists also provide urgent care for suicidal thoughts and self-harm.

Types of Psychiatrists in India

Just like in other countries, psychiatrists in India often specialize in particular areas of mental health. Some of the most common types include:

Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists

Work with children and teenagers facing issues such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, exam-related anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. Demand for child psychiatrists in India is rising, especially in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

Geriatric Psychiatrists

Specialize in the mental health of older adults. They treat dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression in old age, and other age-related conditions. With India’s aging population, this field is becoming increasingly important.

Addiction Psychiatrists

Focus on alcohol, drug, and tobacco dependence issues that are unfortunately widespread in India. They also treat behavioral addictions such as gambling or technology dependence.

Forensic Psychiatrists

Work within the legal system, assisting courts in cases involving crime, mental illness, or competency assessments. This is a growing but still relatively rare subspecialty in India.

Emergency Psychiatrists

Provide urgent care for patients in crisis such as those experiencing suicidal thoughts, severe psychosis, or violent behavior. They often work in large hospitals with psychiatric wards.

Neuropsychiatrists

Treat conditions where brain and mind overlap such as depression following a stroke, epilepsy-related mental health issues, or Parkinson’s-related psychiatric symptoms.

Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrists

Also called psychosomatic specialists, they collaborate with other doctors in hospitals to manage patients who have both medical and psychiatric conditions for example, cancer patients with depression.

Education Required to Become a Psychiatrist in India

In India, becoming a psychiatrist requires completing medical training followed by specialized study in psychiatry. The typical pathway is:

1. MBBS (5.5 years including internship)

• • After clearing NEET-UG, students join an MBBS program.
  • During this course, they study general medicine along with basic psychiatry concepts.
    

2. Postgraduate Degree in Psychiatry (MD or DPM)

• • After MBBS, aspiring psychiatrists must clear NEET-PG to pursue specialization.
    
  • Options include:
    
    • MD in Psychiatry (3 years) – the most common route.
    • Diploma in Psychological Medicine (DPM, 2 years) – shorter, but less preferred today.
      

3. Super-Specialization or Fellowship (Optional)

• • Some psychiatrists continue with DM (Doctorate of Medicine) or fellowships in areas like child psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, or geriatric psychiatry.
    

4. Registration and Practice

• • Psychiatrists must register with the Medical Council of India (MCI)/National Medical Commission (NMC) or their State Medical Council to practice legally.
    

5. Continuous Education

• • Like other doctors, psychiatrists in India are required to attend workshops, conferences, and ongoing training to stay updated.
    

👉 In short: To become a psychiatrist in India, one must complete MBBS + MD in Psychiatry (via NEET-UG and NEET-PG).

How Psychiatrists Treat Patients

A lot of people think psychiatrists just hand out pills but that’s far from the truth. The way they treat patients is much more complete and personal. Here’s what really happens:

1. Diagnosis

The first step is figuring out what’s really going on. A psychiatrist will talk with you about your symptoms, lifestyle, and family history. They may use questionnaires, psychological tests, or even medical exams if needed. For example, what looks like depression might actually be linked to a thyroid issue and only a doctor can catch that.

2. Medication (When Needed)

Psychiatrists can prescribe medicines that balance brain chemistry and ease symptoms. This could be antidepressants for long-term sadness, mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder, or anti-anxiety medication for panic attacks. But they don’t just throw pills at you; the goal is to find the lowest effective dose and keep adjusting until it feels right.

3. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Many psychiatrists also provide therapy themselves. Through methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or supportive counseling, they help you untangle negative thoughts and build healthier coping habits. For some people, therapy alone works; for others, it’s most effective when combined with medication.

4. A Complete Treatment Plan

Your care doesn’t stop after one session. Psychiatrists design a plan that’s unique to you — often a mix of medicine, therapy, lifestyle changes (like sleep and exercise), and follow-up reviews. It’s a partnership where your feedback matters.

5. Crisis Care

In emergencies, say someone is suicidal, aggressive, or losing touch with reality, psychiatrists step in to stabilize the situation immediately. In India, this often happens in hospitals or emergency psychiatric units where quick decisions can literally save lives.

👉 Bottom line: psychiatrists don’t just treat “the illness.” They treat the person. Their role is to look at the full picture, brain, body, and emotions and guide you back to balance.

Can Psychiatrists Prescribe Medication?

Yes, psychiatrists are medical doctors, which means they are legally qualified to prescribe medication for mental health conditions. This is one of the key differences between psychiatrists and other mental health professionals like psychologists or therapists.

Common questions about psychiatric prescriptions in India:

• Do psychiatrists prescribe medication on the first visit?
  It depends. If your symptoms are severe, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication right away. In other cases, they may recommend further assessment or start with therapy before deciding.
  
• Can psychiatrists prescribe ADHD medications like Adderall or Ritalin?
  In India, psychiatrists can prescribe stimulant and non-stimulant medications for ADHD, though availability may differ from the U.S. market.
  
• Can psychiatrists prescribe anti-anxiety medication like Xanax?
  Yes, but usually with caution and for short-term use because of dependency risks.
  
• Can psychiatrists prescribe birth control or general medicines?
  Generally no, unless they are also trained in another specialty. They focus on psychiatric medications.
  
• Can psychiatrists prescribe pain medication or Ozempic?
  These are not standard psychiatric prescriptions. Such medicines are usually handled by other specialists.
  

👉 In short: psychiatrists in India prescribe medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and anti-anxiety drugs, often in combination with therapy for best results.

Are Psychiatrists Covered by Insurance in India?

Yes. Under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, IRDAI has made it mandatory for health insurance plans in India to include mental health treatment. This means psychiatric hospitalization is generally covered, while outpatient consultations may depend on the specific policy. Always check your plan to confirm what’s included.

When Should You See a Psychiatrist?

You should see a psychiatrist if your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors are affecting your daily life. Warning signs include:

• Persistent sadness or anxiety
• Severe mood swings
• Hallucinations or delusions
• Trouble coping after trauma
• Addictions or substance misuse
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

👉 If therapy alone isn’t enough, or you think medication may help, a psychiatrist is the right specialist to consult.

What Happens in the First Appointment?

A first session usually involves:

• Talking about your symptoms and medical history
• Discussing family history of mental health
• Sometimes basic tests or lab work
• A preliminary diagnosis
• A treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication, or both

👉 Think of it as a detailed health check-up for your mind, not a rushed prescription visit.

Do Psychiatrists Do Therapy or Only Prescribe Medicine?

Psychiatrists can do both. Some focus mainly on medication management, while others also provide psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or supportive counseling. Many work alongside psychologists and therapists for a complete approach.

Do Psychiatrists Work in Hospitals and Emergency Care?

Yes. Psychiatrists often work in hospitals, especially in emergency rooms or psychiatric wards, where they handle crises such as suicidal thoughts or severe psychosis. They also practice in clinics, private offices, and increasingly through online platforms.

Can You See a Psychiatrist Online in India?

Yes. Telepsychiatry is now common in India. Through secure video calls, psychiatrists can provide consultations, therapy, and medication management. Platforms like PsychiCare make it easier to connect with licensed psychiatrists without leaving home.

👉 Book an appointment online with a certified psychiatrist at PsychiCare.

Are Psychiatrists in Demand in India?

Yes. India has one of the highest mental health care gaps, with fewer than 1 psychiatrist per 100,000 people. Demand is rising due to increased awareness, urban stress, and lifestyle changes. Psychiatrists are in very high demand, especially in metro cities.

What’s the Future of Psychiatry in India?

The future is strong. With more awareness, government initiatives, and digital platforms like telepsychiatry, access to psychiatrists is expanding. While AI may assist in diagnosis, human psychiatrists will remain essential for personalized care, empathy, and crisis support.

Famous Psychiatrists in India

India has many leading psychiatrists in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. At PsychiCare, our team includes certified and experienced psychiatrists such as Dr. Rishab Verma, who has over 7 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, and complex psychiatric conditions online.

Final Thoughts

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental health conditions using a mix of therapy, medication, and holistic care. In India, they play a critical role in addressing growing mental health needs, from depression and anxiety to addictions and dementia.

If you or a loved one are struggling, don’t wait. At PsychiCare, you can connect with trusted psychiatrists online from anywhere in India.

👉 Book your consultation today and take your first step toward better mental health.

FAQs About Psychiatrists

1. What can a psychiatrist do for me?

A psychiatrist can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, provide therapy, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you manage symptoms and improve your daily life.

2. Do psychiatrists prescribe medication on the first visit?

Sometimes. If symptoms are severe, a psychiatrist may prescribe medicine right away. In other cases, they may recommend more assessments before starting medication.

3. Do psychiatrists do therapy?

Yes. Many psychiatrists offer psychotherapy, while some focus mainly on medication management and work alongside psychologists or therapists for counseling.

4. Are psychiatrists doctors?

Yes. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MBBS + MD in Psychiatry in India) who specialize in mental health.

5. Can psychiatrists diagnose ADHD and autism?

Yes. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental conditions, often using standardized tools and behavioral assessments.

6. Can psychiatrists prescribe Adderall or Xanax in India?

Yes, psychiatrists can prescribe medications for ADHD or anxiety, but availability and regulations may differ from other countries. Such prescriptions are given carefully to avoid misuse.

7. Are psychiatrists covered by insurance in India?

Yes. Under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, IRDAI requires insurers to cover psychiatric treatment. Hospitalization is usually included, while outpatient consultations depend on the policy.

8. Do psychiatrists work in hospitals?

Yes. Many psychiatrists work in hospitals and emergency units, handling crises like suicidal thoughts, severe psychosis, or violent behavior.

9. When should I see a psychiatrist instead of a psychologist?

See a psychiatrist if your symptoms are severe, long-lasting, or may require medication (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or suicidal thoughts). A psychologist is more suitable for therapy and counseling when medication isn’t needed.

10. Can I see a psychiatrist online in India?

Yes. Telepsychiatry is available, and platforms like PsychiCare connect you with licensed psychiatrists online for diagnosis, therapy, and medication management.