Psychiatric Consultation in Pereira, Colombia

What does a psychiatrist do?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specialized in diagnosing and treating mental disorders. Besides evaluating emotional and behavioral symptoms, they rule out physical causes such as thyroid problems, medication effects or neurological disease, and can prescribe medication when needed.

When should you see a psychiatrist rather than only a psychologist?

When symptoms are severe or do not improve with psychotherapy, when there are thoughts of death, hallucinations, unusual beliefs or extreme mood swings, when there is problematic substance use or when you already take psychiatric medication that needs follow-up. Ideally the psychiatrist and psychologist work together.

What happens at the first visit?

The psychiatrist asks about symptoms, how they developed, personal and family history, physical health, medications and substance use. Lab tests may be ordered. At the end they explain their findings and propose a plan, which does not always include medication.

Do psychiatric medications cause dependence or change your personality?

Most, such as antidepressants, are not addictive and do not change who you are; they help the brain regain balance. Some, such as certain tranquilizers, do require controlled use. The psychiatrist explains benefits, side effects and how to stop them safely.

Find psychiatrists

On MedicosDoc you can find psychiatrists for adults, children and teenagers. Compare profiles and book an in-person or online visit.