How to become a psychiatrist

Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

What psychiatrists do

• Prescribe, direct, or administer psychotherapeutic treatments or medications to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders.
• Gather and maintain patient information and records, including social or medical history obtained from patients, relatives, or other professionals.
• Collaborate with physicians, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, or other professionals to discuss treatment plans and progress.
• Analyze and evaluate patient data or test findings to diagnose nature or extent of mental disorder.
• Examine or conduct laboratory or diagnostic tests on patients to provide information on general physical condition or mental disorder.
• Design individualized care plans, using a variety of treatments.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing
• Monitoring
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is psychiatrist a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 453% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• California $353,500
• Louisiana $345,040
• Alaska $342,170
• Minnesota $336,410
• Wisconsin $331,070

Psychiatrists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.