Psychiatry

Medical treatment of mental health

A psychiatrist is a physician specialized in medical eximination, evaluation and treatment of mental disorders. Typically it takes around 12 years of education and practice to qualify as a psychiatirst. In contrary to a psychotherapist, a psychiatrist can make a medical diagnosis and prescribe medication, but can't offer Kela-reimbursed therapy without additional education in psychotherapy.

A psychotherapist is a specialist in psychological examination and treatment of mental problems and disorders. To qualify as a psychotherapist, 3 to 6 years of studies in psychotherapy are required. The basic education of a psychotherapist can be for instance psychologist, psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse, social worker or theologian. The title "psychotherapist" can only be used by a person certified by the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health, Valvira.

The psychiatrist diagnoses mental disorders, creates a personal treatment and rehabilitation plan for the patient, defines the need for psychotherapy and issues the Medical certificates needed in order to apply for reimbursements from Kela. The psychiatrist tracks the progress of the psychotherapy and is responsible for any medication.