What do psychiatrists do?

Answer

Psychiatrists listen and talk to patients about their mental, emotional or behavioral problems and assess the status of these disorders. They study both the medical and mental background of the patient. They may prescribe medications, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy or psychological counseling in accord with the patient�s needs. They may order laboratory tests, imaging, assessment tests or other diagnostic procedures. Psychiatrists analyze the data from these assessment tools with reference to direct observations of the patient in counseling or therapy sessions either group or individual. Psychiatrists can expect to have regular work hours in reasonably comfortable physical settings. The severity of clients� responses and the amount of cases may generate stressful situations.

Answer

IN THE OLD days, they would listen to your problems for an hour, each visit, offer counseling or therapy and usually prescribe medication. Now, they basically take your background, discuss your current problem, and MANAGE OR MONITOR YOUR MEDICATION. They normally recommend a THERAPIST where you spend about an hour discussing your problems and provide you with the tools to better cope with your issues; probably a L.C.S.W. (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) who provides the MAJORITY of your counseling.