Private Psychiatrist in London

Psychiatrists and psychologists have distinct roles. Both are essential, yet they cater to different aspects of mental health care.

The main factor that distinguishes the two is the approach to treatment. If there’s a possibility that you may benefit from medication, having an initial consultation with a psychiatrist is advisable. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health which means they can prescribe and manage medications tailored to your needs.

In many instances, a holistic approach that combines medication with talking therapy is the most effective. For this reason, you may see both a psychiatrist and a psychologist. Psychologists specialise in exploring the emotional, psychological and behavioural aspects of mental health. Through talking therapy, they can help you unravel any underlying issues that might be holding you back and equip you with healthier coping strategies.

Simply put, choosing between a psychiatrist and a psychologist is less about either/or but more about an integrated approach to mental wellness. We focus on offering a tailored journey that brings together the expertise of both professionals to ensure that your path to better mental wellbeing is both holistic and highly personalised.

A clear indicator of successful psychiatric treatment is reduced or absent symptoms, and enhanced wellbeing, and in some cases, reaching a point where medication may no longer be necessary.

Ultimately, each journey to mental wellness is deeply personal. Our dedicated team of psychiatrists are committed to walking this path with you, adapting and responding to your evolving needs to ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible.

Yes. Seeking a second opinion is a normal and beneficial step if you’d like to explore alternative treatment approaches or confirm a diagnosis. At The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, we can arrange for you to see a different psychiatrist within our team. Your comfort and confidence in your treatment plan are paramount, so don’t hesitate to discuss this option if you feel it would be helpful.

Yes, absolutely. We recognise that integrating diverse perspectives and expertise can be instrumental in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of treatment. Our psychiatrists are well-equipped to work alongside clinicians from outside the clinic to provide a comprehensive and unified approach to your treatment.

Yes. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health, which means they can evaluate and adjust your medication. If you’re considering changing, tapering or discontinuing medication, a psychiatrist can provide expert guidance, monitor your progress and, if appropriate, collaborate with other healthcare providers – such as psychologists or GPs – to create an integrative treatment plan.

Your psychiatrists will explore the different options available and consider the potential impacts of any adjustments to your medication. We are committed to ensuring that any modification to your treatment prioritises your safety, comfort and overall wellbeing.

The cost of a psychiatric assessment varies depending on factors such as the complexity of your symptoms and the time required for a thorough evaluation. At The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, we strive to provide transparent, up-to-date information on fees. Please visit our Fees Page or contact our team directly for current pricing and to discuss any specific assessment you may require.

Psychiatry session fees typically differ based on the psychiatrist’s level of expertise and the type of appointment (initial consultation vs. follow-up). For detailed information about our fee structure, please refer to our Fees page or speak with our team. We’re committed to helping you understand the costs involved so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Psychiatry can address a wide range of mental health conditions, from mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder to anxiety, ADHD, psychosis and more. Psychiatrists focus on both the psychological and medical aspects of mental well-being, offering a blend of diagnostic expertise, medication management and referrals for therapy or other interventions as needed.

Yes. Confidentiality is vital in psychiatric practice, just as it is in psychological care. We adhere to strict ethical and legal standards to protect your privacy. Information shared with your psychiatrist remains confidential unless disclosure is required by law or necessary to prevent serious harm to yourself or others. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and trusting environment for all clients.

You can often self-refer for a private appointment. If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, we recommend contacting our clinic directly or checking with your insurance provider. Our administrative team can advise you on the best course of action for your circumstances.

An initial psychiatric assessment often lasts between 50-60 minutes, allowing the psychiatrist to review your medical history, discuss symptoms and formulate a treatment plan. Follow-up appointments are typically shorter – around 30 minutes – focusing on progress updates, medication adjustments and any emerging concerns. Your psychiatrist will discuss the recommended session length based on your needs.

While psychiatrists can provide psychotherapeutic support, their primary role is often focused on diagnosis, medication management and overseeing treatment from a medical standpoint. Many psychiatrists also have training in various therapy modalities, but some prefer to collaborate with psychologists or psychotherapists for in-depth therapy. This integrated approach ensures you receive comprehensive care tailored to your unique situation.