What Does a Psychiatrist Do?
A Psychiatrist Is a Medical Doctor
A psychiatrist is a physician (MD or DO) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions.
After medical school, psychiatrists complete residency training focused on:
Mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder
Anxiety disorders
Trauma-related conditions
ADHD
Sleep disturbances
Hormone-related mood changes
Medication management
Because psychiatrists are medical doctors, they are trained to evaluate both psychological and physical contributors to mental health symptoms.
What Happens During a Psychiatric Evaluation?
An initial psychiatric evaluation is typically longer than follow-up visits. It may include:
Review of current symptoms
Past mental health history
Medical history
Family history
Medication history
Sleep, stress, and daily functioning
Hormonal or reproductive factors when relevant
The goal is not simply to assign a diagnosis. It is to understand patterns, contributing factors, and treatment options.
Psychiatric care should feel collaborative and structured.
Do Psychiatrists Only Prescribe Medication?
Medication is one tool in psychiatric treatment, but it is not the only one.
A psychiatrist may:
Recommend medication
Adjust existing medications
Monitor side effects
Coordinate with therapists
Provide psychoeducation
Discuss lifestyle factors that affect mood and anxiety
Medication decisions are individualized and based on symptom severity, history, and patient preference.
Not everyone who sees a psychiatrist will need medication.
How Is Psychiatry Different from Therapy?
Therapists (such as psychologists, LPCs, LMFTs or LCSWs) provide talk therapy focused on emotional processing, coping skills, and behavioral change.
Psychiatrists are trained to:
Diagnose complex mental health conditions
Evaluate medical contributors
Prescribe and manage medication
Integrate psychiatric and medical considerations
Many people benefit from working with both a therapist and a psychiatrist.
When Should Someone Consider Seeing a Psychiatrist?
It may be helpful to consider psychiatric care if:
Symptoms are persistent or worsening
Anxiety or depression interferes with daily functioning
Prior therapy alone has not been sufficient
Medication questions arise
Mood changes appear connected to hormonal shifts
There is uncertainty about diagnosis
Seeking psychiatric care does not mean symptoms are severe or irreversible. Often, it reflects a desire for clarity and structured treatment options.
Psychiatry in an Outpatient Setting
Outpatient psychiatry focuses on ongoing evaluation and medication management while individuals continue their daily lives.
At Estela Mental Health, care is physician-led and focused on adults seeking thoughtful, evidence-informed treatment in Austin, Texas. Appointments include time for discussion, questions, and careful medication planning when appropriate.
Considering Psychiatric Care in Austin?
If you’re exploring whether psychiatric support may be helpful, a consultation can provide clarity about next steps.
Estela Mental Health provides outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults in Austin. Insurance is accepted, including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare when applicable.
