Psychiatrists are mental health professionals who have earned a medical degree in psychiatry. They focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental health conditions. Because they’re an actual, licensed medical doctor (MD), they can prescribe medication, something that therapists, psychologists, and counselors can’t do. Psychiatrists often work alongside a mental health team to provide patients with depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, and other mental health conditions with the full treatment plan they need. 

The psychiatrist you choose will play an essential role in your mental health treatment, so it’s important to find someone who matches your needs well. Read on to learn how to find a good psychiatrist so you can choose a provider who’s right for you and your specific mental health goals.

Why Is Finding a Psychiatrist So Hard?

Finding the right psychiatrist can be challenging for several reasons. Not only can it be difficult to find a care provider you feel comfortable with, but reports indicate a national shortage of psychiatrists. Couple this with the fact that we are also a nation with unprecedented mental health needs, and your search may be even more difficult. 

It Can Take Awhile to Find the Perfect Fit

If you’re looking for a professional with a particular specialty who has experience treating a specific mental health condition, your search can become even more complex. It’s important that your psychiatrist is a good fit with their experience, approach, and relationship with you.

• Specializations and expertise: Psychiatrists often have various specializations, such as geriatric psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and more. Finding one with expertise for your specific need can take time.
• Therapeutic approach: Different psychiatrists may employ various therapeutic approaches, such as medication management, talk therapy, or psychotherapy. Understanding your preferences and finding a psychiatrist whose methods align with your needs can be time-consuming.
• Compatibility and trust: Establishing a strong therapeutic relationship is vital in mental health care. It can take several sessions to determine whether you feel comfortable and trust your psychiatrist, which is crucial for effective treatment.
• Trial and error: Health care is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Sometimes, it may take trying out a few psychiatrists before finding the right fit for your mental health concerns.

Source: 

https://www.talkspace.com/blog/how-to-find-a-good-psychiatrist/