If you are struggling with your mental health, getting in front of the right specialist can feel like the hardest part. Waiting lists can be long, and you may not know where to start. Seeing a private psychiatrist online is one way to get an expert assessment quickly, without leaving home.
This guide explains how it works, what to expect and how to choose a service you can trust.
What is a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed further specialist training in mental health. Because they are doctors, psychiatrists can:
- assess symptoms and make a diagnosis
- prescribe and adjust medication
- consider how physical health and other medicines affect your mental health
- recommend other support, such as talking therapies, and write to your GP
A Consultant Psychiatrist is a senior psychiatrist who has completed full specialist training.
When might you want to see a psychiatrist?
Your GP is usually the first step for mental health concerns, and many conditions are well managed in primary care. People often look for a psychiatrist when:
- they think they may have adult ADHD or autism and need a specialist assessment
- anxiety or depression has not improved despite treatment
- they want a second opinion on a diagnosis
- their medication is not working or is causing side effects
- they face a long wait for an NHS specialist appointment
Do I need a GP referral?
For private psychiatry, usually not. At Happy Clinic you can book directly online. It is still a good idea to be registered with a GP, and with your consent the psychiatrist will write to them. GP involvement matters for things like shared care prescribing.
How does an online consultation work?
- Book online. Choose the type of appointment, a psychiatrist and a time.
- Prepare. Note your main concerns, when they started, your current medicines, and any previous diagnoses or letters.
- Join the video call. Use your phone, tablet or laptop from a quiet, private room.
- Talk it through. The psychiatrist will ask about your symptoms, history, physical health, lifestyle and what you would like help with. An initial assessment at Happy Clinic lasts 60 minutes.
- Get a plan. You will get clear next steps. This may include medication, follow-up appointments, suggestions for other support and a summary for your GP.
Is online as good as face to face?
A psychiatric assessment is mainly a detailed conversation, so it works well by video for most people. Many people also find it easier to talk openly from somewhere familiar. If your psychiatrist feels something cannot be done safely online, they will tell you.
How much does a private psychiatrist cost?
Prices vary between providers. At Happy Clinic, an initial psychiatric assessment is £400 (60 minutes) and a follow-up is £200 (20 minutes). Prescriptions issued during these appointments are included in the fee, but you pay the pharmacy for the medicine itself. See the full fees page.
How to choose a trustworthy online psychiatry service
Before you book, check:
- Regulator registration. In England, providers of regulated healthcare should be registered with the Care Quality Commission, and Happy Clinic is registered with it.
- GMC registration. Your psychiatrist should be on the General Medical Council register with a licence to practise.
- Clear prices. Fees should be stated up front.
- Honest promises. No reputable clinic can guarantee a diagnosis or a prescription before assessing you.
- GP communication. A good service will want to share information with your GP, with your consent.
- Crisis guidance. Online clinics are not emergency services and should say so clearly.
What if I need help urgently?
Online psychiatry is for planned care. If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, call 999 or go to A&E. You can also call NHS 111 or Samaritans free on 116 123, day or night.
Ready to take the next step?
If you would like a specialist opinion, you can book a video consultation with a Consultant Psychiatrist at Happy Clinic. Appointments are usually available within days.
Speak to a Consultant Psychiatrist
Book a secure video consultation with Happy Clinic. No GP referral needed, with appointments usually available within days.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you are in crisis, call 999, go to A&E, call NHS 111 or call Samaritans free on 116 123.