How to Choose a Psychiatrist in Istanbul

First, choose the right profession

A psychiatrist is a physician who has completed specialist training in psychiatry after medical school; they conduct clinical assessments, make diagnoses, and prescribe medication when needed. A psychologist does not prescribe medication; they provide psychological assessments and therapy according to their training. Child and adolescent psychiatry is a separate specialty for children and adolescents.

Checklist

• Qualifications: Check whether the physician is a specialist in psychiatry. A title based solely on a certificate is not a medical specialist qualification.
• Area of practice: Ask whether they regularly work with your particular concern (for example, adult ADHD, trauma, eating disorders, or addiction).
• Therapy training: If therapy will also be part of your treatment, ask which approach they have trained in and where they received their training and supervision.
• Approach: Consider whether the reasons for recommending medication, therapy, or both are explained in a way you can understand.
• Continuity of care: Ask how often you will meet, how follow-up appointments are arranged, and whom to contact if you experience medication side effects.
• Practical matters: Find out in advance about transport, online consultation options, fees, and cancellation policies.
• Confidentiality: Ask how your information is stored, and when and how much of it may be shared with those close to you.

Questions to ask at the first appointment

• Based on your assessment, how would you describe my condition?
• What options are available, and what is the reasoning behind your recommendation?
• How will we measure improvement, and when will we reassess?
• What side effects should I expect, and what should I avoid?

Warning signs to watch for

• Guarantees of a certain outcome or recovery within a specific timeframe.
• Presenting a single method as the solution to every problem.
• Failing to explain the reasoning behind a diagnosis or treatment, or avoiding your questions.
• Brushing aside questions about your confidentiality.

Where to start

Appointments at the psychiatric outpatient clinics of public and university hospitals can be booked through MHRS, the Central Physician Appointment System. Private practices, private hospitals, and university hospitals can all be suitable options; the decision depends on waiting times, your budget, and your needs. If you do not feel understood after the first appointment, it is perfectly reasonable to seek another physician's opinion.

Emergencies

If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, do not wait for an appointment: call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.