Lab Dekho does not yet list a verified psychiatrist with a practice in Chennai. None are listed nearby yet either, but 1 psychiatrist across India offer online video consultation, which works well for a first opinion, follow-ups and reviewing reports:

Dr. Pooja Mahajan, Psychiatry — 10 years of experience, rated 4.9 from 521 reviews, offers online consultation

What does a psychiatrist do?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or MBBS + DPM/MD Psychiatry) who specializes in mental health. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medications and manage complex psychiatric conditions. They treat depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, eating disorders, addiction, and personality disorders. They work with psychologists, counselors, and social workers for holistic care. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Forensic Psychiatry are key subspecialties.

Conditions psychiatrists treat

Depression (Major Depressive Disorder)
Anxiety Disorders & Panic Attacks
Schizophrenia
Bipolar Disorder
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
PTSD
ADHD
Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia)
Substance Use Disorders
Personality Disorders

Symptoms that are worth a visit

Consider booking a psychiatrist if you have any of the following, especially if they are new, getting worse or affecting daily life:

Persistent sadness for 2+ weeks
Excessive worry or panic attacks
Hallucinations or delusions
Extreme mood swings
Inability to concentrate
Suicidal thoughts
Alcohol or drug dependence
Sleep disturbances
Persistent depression or anxiety affecting daily life
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Common tests and procedures

Depending on your symptoms, a psychiatrist may recommend:

Psychiatric evaluation
Psychopharmacology (medication management)
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (as part of care)
Addiction detoxification

Many blood tests can be booked with home sample collection before your consultation, so the results are ready when you see the doctor.

Qualifications to look for

Psychiatrists usually hold MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), DPM (Diploma in Psychological Medicine), MRCPsych, Fellowship in Child / Addiction / Forensic Psychiatry. Check that the doctor is registered with the National Medical Commission or a State Medical Council, and ask about their experience with your specific condition.

Sub-specialities

Some psychiatrists focus further on one area: Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Geriatric Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.

Typical consultation fees

An in-clinic consultation with a psychiatrist in India typically costs about ₹700 to ₹2,000. This is an approximate range — actual fees vary by city, the doctor's experience and the clinic or hospital, and follow-up visits are often cheaper. Confirm the fee when you book.

Getting care in Chennai until a psychiatrist is listed

Online consultation: 1 psychiatrist on Lab Dekho offer video consults — useful for a first opinion, follow-ups and reviewing reports.
Start with a general physician if your symptoms are new or unclear; they can treat many problems and refer you to the right specialist.
Book tests at home: compare lab tests and health packages with home sample collection.
Emergencies: call 108 or 112, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Questions about psychiatrists in Chennai

Is there a psychiatrist listed in Chennai on Lab Dekho?

Not yet — Lab Dekho does not currently list a verified psychiatrist with a practice in Chennai. 1 psychiatrist across India offer online video consultation.

How do I find the nearest psychiatrist to Chennai?

Use the list of psychiatrists in nearby cities on this page and compare their clinic locations, experience and reviews. You can also ask a general physician near you for a referral.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medications. A psychologist has a PhD/PsyD in psychology and provides therapy but cannot prescribe medications in most countries.

Is psychiatry only for 'serious' mental illness?

No. Psychiatrists treat the full spectrum from mild anxiety and work-related stress to severe schizophrenia.

Are psychiatric medications habit-forming?

Most psychiatric medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers) are not habit-forming. Some anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines) can be, and are prescribed carefully.

What should I do in a medical emergency?

Call 108 or 112, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away — do not wait to book an appointment.

How to choose and book

Compare qualifications, years of experience, patient ratings and fees, and check whether the doctor offers in-clinic, online or both. Carry previous reports and a list of medicines to your visit. You can also compare lab tests and health packages, and book home sample collection. In an emergency, call 108 or 112 rather than booking an appointment.

This page is general information and not medical advice. Doctor details, fees and availability are supplied by providers and may change.