Psychiatrist

Psychiatrist appointment: how to find a doctor and compare consultation terms

Updated 20 October 2026

Psychiatrist, psychotherapist or psychologist

These specialists work differently. A psychiatrist is a doctor who diagnoses disorders and can prescribe medicines. A psychotherapist does longer talking therapy; some psychotherapists also have a medical degree. A psychologist does not treat or prescribe medicines but offers counselling, so there is a separate page for psychologist services. If you are not sure whom to choose, write in your request what is troubling you, and the doctors will tell you whether it is their field.

When it is worth seeing a doctor

The signs are well known: a long period of low mood, constant anxiety, insomnia that doesn't pass, panic attacks, sudden changes in behaviour, thoughts of self-harm. If there is a danger to your life or someone else's, do not wait for offers in the chat: call 112 or an ambulance. For a planned appointment, there is time to compare terms.

Only a doctor prescribes medicines, after an examination. Don't change the dose or stop a medicine you already take without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better.

What to put in your request

Write as much as you are comfortable with: you don't need intimate details, the gist is enough.

• complaints — for example, insomnia, anxiety, low mood;
• service — first consultation, follow-up, choosing or adjusting treatment;
• patient — an adult or a child, with the age;
• format — in person or online, a home visit;
• previous treatment — what you have taken and what helped, if you want to share that;
• when — this week, at the weekend, in the evening;
• city and area, if the visit is in person;
• qualification — for example, a child psychiatrist, experience with a particular condition;
• budget for a consultation, if you want to share it.

Example: “I need an online consultation with a psychiatrist for a 16-year-old: depression and insomnia, currently taking sertraline, and I want the treatment reviewed. A child psychiatrist with ADHD experience preferred. This week, Cape Town. Budget up to R 300 per consultation.”

How to compare offers

Ask how long the first appointment lasts and whether a follow-up conversation after tests or a review of the prescription is included. Check whether the doctor can see you online after an in-person visit. Look at education, specialisation (child or adult) and reviews. A price without this information means little.

How it works on BlaBlaPrice

You describe the situation once in a request. It is checked, and doctors reply in the chat with appointment time, format and consultation price. The platform shows the best-value offer first, with reviews beside each. Doctors see their place among the others and can improve their terms. Your phone number stays hidden: contacts go only to the one you choose. Read more on the “How it works” page.

For general check-ups, see medical services.