Compare roles in health

General psychiatry

General psychiatrists are medically qualified doctors who contribute to the management and treatment of adults with mental health problems. 

Training and qualifications required

Training usually starts with a five year first degree in medicine and two years of foundation training. You will then take three years of core training (CT1-3), followed by three years of specialist training (ST3-6). This period of training will include completing your royal college exams. Length of training can vary according to your circumstances.

Expected working hours and salary range

Working hours should not exceed 48 hours a week. The working hours may sometimes extend beyond the normal working day to include early mornings, evenings and weekends. On call possible. Pay scales (2017): Consultants earn between £76,761 and £103,490.

Desirable skills and values

You'll need empathy, compassion, emotional resilience and initiative to work in highly pressurised and emotive situations.The ability to monitor developing situations and anticipate issues is important. You'll also need to be flexible with an analytical and scientific approach. Also important are excellent communication, leadership and problem solving skills with the ability to work well in a team. You'll also need a high level of motivation, good organisational skills and the ability to work well in a team. Good problem-solving skills using logical/lateral thinking are also important.

Prospects

There are 2382 consultants in general psychiatry in England in 2016. Opportunities exist for research and teaching.

Related roles

• General practice (GP)
• Paediatrics
• Neurology
• Child and adolescent psychiatry