A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists treat mental illness holistically through a combination of psychological interventions and medical management.

Although you are welcome to book an appointment at our practice any time, it is often recommended that you first visit your general practitioner for an assessment, and possible treatment of physical conditions that may be affecting your mental health (e.g. vitamin deficiencies). If your practitioner feels that further assessment with a psychiatrist could help, then they will often write a referral letter for you to assist the process.

Yes, a psychiatrist can prescribe medicine and conduct health exams and somatic therapies.

The type of medication you are prescribed, when necessary, will largely depend on your condition, its severity and your medical history. Medications for mental illnesses may include, among others:

• antipsychotic medicine
• antidepressants
• mood stabilisers
• Treatments for possible contributing medical illnesses
• Sedatives for sleep and/or anxiety (temporary in most cases)

Booking an appointment is essential. Please call our practice or request an appointment via online contact form.

Your first appointment (generally 60 minutes) is, by policy, a fixed fee that is payable on arrival, unless special arrangements have been made with Dr Petersen prior to the appointment. This amount can be claimed back from your medical aid, and arrangements can be made with your medical aid for payment of follow-up appointments (generally 30 minutes each).

Please note that if, for any reason, your medical aid is unable to cover a portion of the consultation fee (or, in some cases, pays the fee to you directly), it remains your responsibility to compensate the outstanding amount. Our practice staff will contact you if there are any concerns or queries.