Anonymous
7 April, 2026
Depression & Stress
A client booked a psychiatric appointment seeking support for ongoing stress, low mood, and difficulties in their personal life. They expected the session to provide emotional support, guidance, and space to talk through experiences in depth.
During the consultation, the psychiatrist conducted a structured clinical assessment, focusing on symptoms, risk factors, medical history, and whether medication might be appropriate. The client felt the appointment was “too clinical” and left disappointed, as their expectation had been a therapeutic conversation rather than a medical evaluation.
No medication was prescribed, as the psychiatrist determined that the client’s needs were better suited for psychotherapy rather than medical intervention.
After the appointment, the client requested a refund, feeling that the service did not meet their expectations. However, the consultation had been delivered appropriately within the scope of psychiatric practice.
Because psychiatric consultations are specialist medical appointments, the following policies apply:
Psychiatric appointments are focused on medical assessment and treatment planning rather than ongoing emotional support. They often feel similar to other medical appointments.
Psychotherapy and counselling are designed to provide space to talk through experiences and help with coping strategies and behavioural change
Many people benefit from a combination of therapy and psychiatric care, depending on their needs.
Medication is not automatically prescribed during or after a psychiatric consultation; any treatment recommendations will be based on clinical need and careful assessment.
Typical appointment lengths are approx 50 minutes for an initial consultation, with 20-30 minutes for any follow-up appointments.
During consultations, psychiatrists may:
A psychiatrist is a medically-qualified practitioner who will have spent 5-6 years training to be a doctor. They will then have worked as a doctor in general medicine and surgery for at least a year. They will then have had at least 6 years of further training in helping people with psychological problems.
Our services can be covered by most Irish health insurance providers or paid for directly. We recommend checking your cover with your provider. Please note the medical card does not apply to private services like BetterCare™
A psychiatrist will ask you about the problem that has brought you to see them. They may also ask about anything that has happened in your life, your thoughts and feelings and your physical health. This is so that they can get a thorough understanding of your situation.
Yes, at BetterCare™ we believe nobody should have to wait for expert care. That's why we make mental health more accessible and affordable. Individualised payment options are available to suit everyone's budget and lifestyle. These options include flexible invoicing weekly, bi-weekly or monthly or you can opt to book now -pay later with Klarna.
Psychiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including:
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