# psychiatrist

/səˈkaɪətɹəst/ (US) · /saɪkˈaɪətɹɪst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/psychiatrist
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a medical doctor who treats mental health problems. They can talk to you about your feelings and also give you medicine if you need it.

For teachers: a medical practitioner specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Unlike a psychologist, this professional is licensed to prescribe medication and perform medical procedures.

## Examples

- The psychiatrist prescribed a new medication for her anxiety.
- After several therapy sessions, her GP recommended she see a psychiatrist to discuss a formal diagnosis.
- Modern clinical practice often involves a collaborative approach where the psychiatrist manages the pharmacological intervention while a therapist provides weekly counseling sessions.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I am going to the psychiatry" but "I am going to the psychiatrist" — Learners often confuse the person (psychiatrist) with the field of medicine (psychiatry).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.