Psychiatrist

What does a Psychiatrist do?

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who study, work to prevent, diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
• They examine a patient to determine physical condition, following standard medical procedures.
• They may order diagnostic and laboratory tests for the patient, and analyze the results.
• After determining the nature and extent of the disorder, psychiatrists formulate treatment programs which may involve medication, psychotherapy, group therapy or other modes of treatment.
• Psychoanalysis includes the study of unconscious motivation and dream analysis.

Salary and Employment Outlook:

EDD Labor Market Information

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Typical Employers:

Most work for private or group practice, clinics, community mental health agencies, health maintenance organizations, universities, and government agencies. Many are self­employed.

Preparation:

Psychiatrists must have a high school diploma, eight years of postsecondary training, and serve a residency. They need three- to five-years additional training after completion of medical school. Programs of study are available. A background in advanced math and science is important. A premedical curriculum should be taken in an accredited college with a major in Science, Biology, or Chemistry. It is very rare for students without undergraduate degrees to be admitted to medical school. A few programs offer combined undergraduate/ medicine studies, granting both degrees over a six- to eight-year period. Those admitted will serve a residency to train in the specialty. Personality and leadership qualities are also part of the selection process. Continuing education is important for this occupation.

Graduation from medical school is required. Admission to medical school is very competitive. Applicants must take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Each school has its own admissions requirements. Your academic record, your outside activities, faculty evaluations, personal interviews, and MCAT scores all help determine whether you are admitted into medical school.

Admission to medical schools is highly competitive. Medical schools can be expensive, but many forms of financial aid are available. Another way to enter this field is by attending school while in the Military and then completing your enlistment. When entering the civilian work world, Psychiatrists will need to be licensed by the state in which they will practice.

Psychoanalysts may be physicians or non-physicians (Mental Health Counselors).

Educational Program(s):

Medicine

Related Programs: General Physical Science, Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Public Health

Web Resources:

ONet Online

Career Info Net

Career Zone