Psychiatrist vs psychologist in Nepal — who should you see?

In Nepal, people often ask: “Should I see a psychiatrist or a psychologist?” Both work in mental health, but roles differ. Choosing wrong can mean delay — or expecting medication from someone who cannot prescribe.

Bhatta Psychotherapy is a psychology practice — we provide psychotherapy, not prescriptions. This guide explains who does what and when combined care helps.

Psychologist — what we do

• Graduate training in assessment and psychotherapy (MA/MPhil level)
• Talk therapy — CBT, DBT-informed skills, trauma-focused care
• Couples, teen (14+), ADHD skills, anxiety, depression, trauma
• Do not prescribe medication in Nepal
• Can refer to psychiatrist when medication may help

Psychiatrist — what they do

• Medical doctors (MBBS + specialization)
• Diagnose mental disorders and prescribe medication
• Monitor side effects and doses
• May offer brief therapy; many focus on medical management
• Needed when symptoms are severe, psychotic, or medication trial is appropriate

Quick comparison

• Anxiety, relationship stress, trauma processing → often start with psychologist
• Severe depression, mania, psychosis, medication questions → psychiatrist
• ADHD in Nepal → psychologist for skills; psychiatrist for medication options (e.g. atomoxetine)
• Many clients use both — meds lower noise, therapy builds skills

Also read: Find therapists in Kathmandu — qualifications →

Also read: Adult ADHD treatment in Nepal →

Counselors and coaches — be careful

“Counselor” training varies in Nepal. Life coaches are not licensed to treat clinical depression or trauma. Ask about degree, supervision, and scope before paying for long packages.

Book psychotherapy in Kathmandu or online

Damber Raj Bhatta and Shrijana Ghimire are psychologists at Bhatta Psychotherapy — individual, couples, teen, trauma, ADHD. Free clarity call if unsure which service fits.