Psychiatrist

Psychiatrist training

According to the American Psychiatric Association, psychiatrists complete medical school, pass licensing exams and then finish a four-year psychiatry residency. That adds up to roughly 12 years of education after high school for a general adult psychiatrist. Some go on to fellowships in areas such as addiction, child and adolescent, forensic or geriatric psychiatry.

After residency, many psychiatrists take a voluntary exam to become board certified and must keep up continuing education to maintain it.

What psychiatrists do

Because they're physicians, psychiatrists look at both the mental and physical aspects of a person's symptoms. Their work can include:

• Diagnosing mental health conditions
• Ordering or performing medical and psychological tests
• Prescribing and monitoring medication
• Providing psychotherapy
• Coordinating care with other clinicians

Psychiatrist vs other clinicians

Psychologists usually hold a doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and diagnose, provide therapy and do psychological testing. Licensed clinical social workers and licensed professional counselors hold master's degrees and provide assessment and therapy. Psychiatrists and, in some states, psychiatric nurse practitioners are the clinicians who prescribe medication.

NIMH notes that social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists all provide mental health treatment, and that a primary care provider can be a good first step for a referral.

When to see a psychiatrist

You might consider a psychiatrist if your symptoms are severe, aren't improving with therapy alone, or if medication could be part of your plan. Many people see a psychiatrist for medication management alongside a therapist, such as an LCSW or psychologist, for ongoing talk therapy.

A service dog can support daily functioning, but it doesn't replace treatment. If you're in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911.

Do you need a psychiatrist for a PSD

No. Under the ADA, no documentation of any kind is required for a trained service dog in public places, and a letter does not grant public access. For housing, a provider may ask for reliable information about a disability that isn't obvious and your need for the animal. That information can come from a range of licensed professionals, not only psychiatrists.

At usaPsdletter.com, evaluations are done by Gabriel Warner, LCSW, and letters may be reviewed and signed by Andrew Patel, M.D., a physician, when the clinical findings support one.