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3 Qualities to Look For in a Psychiatrist

October 18, 2023

The right mental health professional can make all the difference when you're struggling. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 26,500 psychiatrists employed today. Finding the right one may feel challenging. Here are a few qualities you can look for.


1. Empathy and Compassion

Because of the delicate nature of mental health conditions, it's essential that a psychiatrist has empathy and compassion for your situation. This is usually a strong character trait in the individuals who enter this profession. They will attempt to put themselves in your shoes to try to understand where you're coming from. This can help to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment. A good psychiatrist will make you feel comfortable while encouraging you to share your deepest thoughts and emotions.


Compassion will play a key role in the doctor-patient relationship in mental health treatment. You want to know that the professional you are working with genuinely cares about your situation. You should be able to tell during an initial consultation if the professional exhibits these traits.


2. Good Communication Skills

A quality psychiatrist will have strong communication skills. Mental health treatment is all about communicating. You'll be communicating to the professional what you're experiencing, and they'll be communicating to you tools and resources on how to cope, grow, and become safe and healthy. The doctor's communication skills should be evident in all types of interactions. This would include your actual treatment sessions as well as other types of communication concerning appointments, medications, or other details. A lack of good communication in this type of relationship could result in confusion and frustration.


You will be able to get a good idea of the doctor's communication skills within the first few interactions. Pay special attention during the consultation to make sure this is a person you will feel comfortable communicating with.


3. Trustworthiness

Because of the nature of some mental health topics, it's critical that trust is the cornerstone of the patient-doctor relationship. There are federal laws in place that will help to protect your privacy and ensure that your doctors respect your privacy. If at any time you start to doubt the trustworthiness of the professional you are seeing, you need to address the issue.


These were some of the qualities to look for in a psychiatrist. If you're seeking a mental health professional with decades of experience, turn to Cady Wellness Institute. We are here to help you on your mental health journey.


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