Psychiatry

Clinically Reviewed By: Corey Pitts, MA, LCMHCS, LPC, LCAS, CCS

Medically Reviewed By: Amar Mukhtar, DO, Associate Medical Director at BetterHelp

What is psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. German physician Johann Christian Reil coined the term in 1808 from the Greek root words for "mind/soul" and "healing." The field has focused on treating behavioral, emotional, and psychological conditions ever since.

What sets psychiatrists apart from other mental health professionals is their medical education and training. Clinical psychologists and therapists are highly skilled at providing talk therapy and behavioral support. However, psychiatry may be different, involving medical treatment as well.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who may also diagnose psychiatric disorders and mental illness, provide mental health care, and prescribe medication when clinically appropriate. They have the same foundational medical training as a general practitioner but chose psychiatry as their specialty.

What do psychiatrists do?

When working with a person, a psychiatrist's first step is usually to get the full picture. That means evaluating the individual's symptoms, taking a detailed medical and psychiatric history, and figuring out what might be behind a concern someone is experiencing. They also diagnose mental health disorders using tools such as the DSM-5, a standardized guide to psychiatric diagnosis used across the field, and current psychiatric research.

From there, a psychiatrist develops a treatment plan that might include medication, talk therapy, referrals to other providers, or some combination of all three. They often work alongside therapists and clinical psychologists to provide comprehensive care. 

What conditions does psychiatry address?

Psychiatry addresses a wide range of mental health conditions. Some of the most common include:

• Depression

• Anxiety disorders

• Bipolar disorder

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Schizophrenia

No two people's experiences look exactly alike, because psychiatric disorders vary widely in how they present and how severe they feel for the person experiencing them. So a psychiatrist may recommend different combinations of support based on what's most appropriate for that person.

Psychiatrists often specialize in different areas of psychiatry. Some begin their careers in general psychiatry and then branch out to certain areas, such as child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, or addiction psychiatry, among others.

What are the main approaches used in psychiatry?

Psychiatry isn't one-size-fits-all. Treatment plans may look very different from person to person, and psychiatrists use various approaches depending on what someone needs.

Medication management

Medication may help manage symptoms of mental health conditions when a licensed psychiatrist determines it's clinically appropriate. Prescriptions might include:

• Antidepressants

• Mood stabilizers

• Antipsychotics

• Antianxiety medications

Results vary from person to person, and finding the right fit may take time. Anyone considering starting, changing, or stopping a psychiatric medication should consult a licensed provider first.

Talk therapy and psychotherapy

Medication isn't the only tool in a psychiatrist's kit. Some offer what is called talk therapy alongside or instead of medication, using approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy. Many people find that working with both a psychiatrist and a licensed therapist, like those at BetterHelp, may offer more comprehensive support, with the psychiatrist managing medication while the therapist provides regular therapy sessions.

Integrated and holistic approaches

Modern psychiatry considers the whole person. A psychiatrist may use the following models for diagnosis and treatment:

• Biomedical: Focuses on biological causes like genetics, brain chemistry, and neurological function

• Biopsychosocial: Considers how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to shape mental health

• Biocognitive: Examines how thought patterns and biological factors together influence behavior and well-being

Mental health conditions usually have more than one cause, so modern psychiatric care may take an integrated approach that considers genetics, environment, behavior, and social factors together.

How can someone access psychiatric and mental health support?

Finding mental health care may feel overwhelming, especially if one may be experiencing emotional distress. Barriers like cost, availability, and stigma may also make access harder. But there are more options available than many people realize, including in-person psychiatrists, primary care referrals, community mental health centers, and online platforms.

Online mental health care as an option

Online therapy platforms have made it easier to access mental health support without the logistical hurdles of traditional in-person care. For example, BetterHelp matches individuals with licensed mental health professionals in as little as 48 hours, with sessions available via video, phone, live chat, or messaging. Research suggests online therapy may be as effective as in-person care for many mental health concerns. 

For those seeking psychiatric support specifically, BetterHelp offers psychiatry services through UpLift, which may include medication management for eligible users ages 18 and older, with an average copay of around $20 for those with qualifying insurance. For many people, the combination of therapy and psychiatric support in one accessible place may make getting care feel a lot less overwhelming.

FAQs

Is psychiatry the same as psychology?

Not quite. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who may prescribe medication, while clinical psychologists hold doctoral degrees and focus on psychotherapy and psychological testing. Both professionals play important roles in handling mental health concerns and often work together.

Can a psychiatrist provide talk therapy?

Some can. Many psychiatrists focus primarily on medication management, but some also offer psychotherapy and may work alongside a licensed therapist.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

It depends on the insurance plan and provider. Some providers require a referral to see a psychiatrist, while others allow direct access. Contacting a provider or insurer directly may be the clearest way to find out.

 Can online platforms connect me with psychiatric care?

Yes. BetterHelp offers psychiatry services through UpLift, which may include medication management for eligible individuals ages 18 and older.

Is psychiatric medication always part of treatment?

No. Medication is only one possible component of a psychiatric treatment plan and is prescribed only when a licensed provider determines it’s clinically appropriate.