In a 2023 study by Institut Public de Sondage d’Opinion Secteur (IPSOS), they found that over 46% of Singaporeans place mental health as the biggest health problem facing the country today. Interestingly, in 2022, the Ministry of Health (HOH) released the National Population Health Survey 2022 and also found that many Singaporeans, especially among young adults (18 to 29 years old), suffer from poor mental health.
Fortunately, there are many qualified psychiatrists in the country who can give people mental health support. Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns, finding the right psychiatrist is an important first step.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best psychiatrists in Singapore, their areas of expertise, and what to consider when making your choice.
Firstly, why is it important to take care of Your Mental Health?
Mental health is fundamental to our overall well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. It influences our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Prioritizing mental health can enhance our productivity, improve our relationships, and contribute to a fulfilling life.
The importance of mental health care is underscored by its direct impact on our daily functioning and quality of life. Poor mental health can lead to significant challenges, including diminished functioning at work or school, strained relationships, and decreased physical health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that there is no health without mental health, pointing out that untreated mental health conditions can severely affect physical health, increasing the risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Moreover, taking care of mental health has societal benefits. For example, mental health disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide. Addressing mental health needs can decrease disability rates and economic burdens on society.
What are Psychiatrists?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs) who specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illnesses. Their medical training allows them to prescribe medication, conduct physical exams, and order as well as interpret lab tests and brain imaging studies such as MRIs or CT scans. This comprehensive approach enables psychiatrists to evaluate the physical and mental aspects of psychological problems.
They differ from psychologists since psychologists are trained in psychotherapy, counseling, and psychological testing but cannot prescribe medications in most jurisdictions. They focus on employing therapeutic techniques to help patients develop coping strategies and work through their issues. They also often specialise in behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, psychoanalysis, or combinations of these therapies.
What are the Benefits of Seeing a Psychiatrist?
The benefits of seeing a psychiatrist are multifaceted, given their comprehensive approach to mental health care. Here are some of them:
- Expertise in Medication Management: Psychiatrists can prescribe medications that are crucial for treating mental health conditions like severe depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. This expertise ensures that patients receive the correct dosage and combination of medications to manage their symptoms effectively.
- Holistic Approach to Treatment: Psychiatrists evaluate both mental and physical aspects of health, allowing them to identify and treat the interplay between physical health problems and psychiatric symptoms. This comprehensive approach ensures that all factors affecting the patient’s health are addressed.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Psychiatrists develop tailored treatment plans that may include medication, lifestyle changes, and psychotherapy, catering to the unique needs of each patient. This personalised care optimises treatment outcomes.
What are the key criteria for choosing the right psychiatrist for you?
Credentials and Licensing
One of the first things to look out for when choosing a psychiatrist in Singapore is their professional credentials. Ensure that the psychiatrist is registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC), which guarantees that they are legally certified to practise medicine in the country.
You can verify this through the SMC’s online register.
Beyond basic medical qualifications, it’s also important to check if the psychiatrist has undergone formal specialist training in psychiatry.
Look for recognised postgraduate qualifications such as:
- Master of Medicine (Psychiatry) – often obtained through the National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (FRCPsych) – a UK-based qualification
- Diploma in Psychological Medicine (DPM) – a foundational mental health qualification
- Accreditation by the Specialist Accreditation Board (SAB) under the Ministry of Health
These credentials indicate that the psychiatrist has received advanced training and meets the standards required to treat mental health conditions safely and effectively. In some cases, psychiatrists may also have additional certifications in areas such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), addiction psychiatry, or child and adolescent psychiatry, which further enhance their expertise.
Specialisation Area
Mental health covers a wide spectrum of conditions, and many psychiatrists develop expertise in particular areas. Choosing a psychiatrist whose specialisation aligns with your needs can lead to more targeted and effective treatment.
Here are some common specialisation areas in Singapore:
- Mood Disorders – such as depression and bipolar disorder
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders – including generalised anxiety, social anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Addiction Psychiatry – focusing on substance use disorders, gambling addiction, and behavioural addictions
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – supporting young people with issues like ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, school refusal, or emotional regulation
- Geriatric Psychiatry – addressing mental health challenges in older adults, including dementia and late-life depression
- Psychotic Disorders – such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
- Trauma and PTSD – for individuals recovering from abuse, accidents, or other traumatic experiences
- Women’s Mental Health – including postpartum depression, fertility-related stress, and perimenopausal mood issues
Identifying a psychiatrist with relevant experience in your area of concern increases the likelihood of receiving personalised care and evidence-based interventions tailored to your situation.
Years of Experience
Clinical experience plays a key role in shaping how a psychiatrist assesses and manages different mental health conditions.
When choosing a psychiatrist, it’s worth considering how many years they have been in practice and the types of cases they typically handle.
Just like other form of medicine, a psychiatrist with many years of experience tend to have a better judgement on any case.
A psychiatrist who has managed a wide range of patients over the years is likely to have developed sharper clinical judgment and a more nuanced understanding of complex or overlapping conditions. This depth of experience can also help in tailoring treatment plans that are both practical and effective for your specific needs.
Do take note though that the more experienced the psychiatrist is, they tend to command a higher fee as well.
Treatment Approach
Psychiatrists may differ in how they approach treatment, so it’s important to understand what they offer. Some focus primarily on prescribing medication, while others are trained in psychotherapy or offer a combination of both.
For those seeking a more holistic approach, you may want to look for psychiatrists who work closely with clinical psychologists, counsellors, or social workers as part of an integrated care team. Understanding their treatment philosophy and the range of options they provide will help you determine if their approach aligns with your personal preferences and comfort level.
Comfort and Communication
Mental health treatment works best when there is trust and open communication between you and your psychiatrist. It’s not just about credentials — it’s about how you feel in the consultation room. You should feel safe, respected, and truly listened to. A good psychiatrist takes the time to understand your concerns, doesn’t rush through appointments, and explains treatment options in a way that feels collaborative rather than prescriptive.
For example, a young adult experiencing anxiety and sleep issues might feel dismissed during a brief consultation with a psychiatrist who quickly prescribes medication without exploring deeper concerns. In contrast, another psychiatrist might spend time asking open-ended questions about stressors, family history, and coping strategies — making the patient feel heard and more confident about continuing treatment.
Some people prefer psychiatrists with a more gentle, conversational approach, while others respond better to a structured, clinical style. One Singaporean patient shared in an interview with Channel NewsAsia that it took three different psychiatrists before she found one who “talked with me, not at me,” which made all the difference in her recovery from depression.
Ultimately, if you leave your first session feeling dismissed, judged, or confused, it may be worth exploring other options. You’re not being difficult — you’re just looking for someone who can walk the journey with you in a way that fits your needs and communication style.
Availability and Waiting Time
In Singapore, some psychiatrists — especially those in high demand — may have longer waiting times. While experience and reputation matter, so does access to timely care. If your condition requires prompt attention, consider psychiatrists or clinics with more immediate availability. It’s also helpful to check if the clinic offers flexible scheduling, evening or weekend slots, or even teleconsultation options to suit your routine.
Clinic Location and Accessibility
The location of the psychiatrist’s clinic can make a big difference in how consistent and stress-free your visits are.
Remember, seeking psychiatric services is not a 1, 2 visit type of commitment.
Many times, treatment involves regular follow-up sessions over several months or even longer, depending on your condition and progress. Having a clinic that is conveniently located — near your home, workplace, or accessible by public transport — can reduce the stress of commuting, especially when you’re already feeling emotionally or mentally drained.
Some clinics also offer teleconsultation options, which can be a helpful alternative during busy weeks or when travelling isn’t ideal. Ultimately, the more convenient the location and access, the more likely you’ll be able to stick to your treatment plan and prioritise your mental well-being.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost is a practical but important factor when choosing a psychiatrist, especially since mental health treatment is often ongoing. In Singapore, psychiatric consultation fees can vary widely depending on whether you’re seeing a psychiatrist in a public hospital or a private clinic.
For example, first-time consultations at private clinics typically range from S$180 to more than S$400, while follow-up visits may cost from S$120 to more than S$250. On the other hand, subsidised rates at public hospitals (like IMH, NUH, SGH, or Khoo Teck Puat Hospital) can be significantly lower — but they often require a referral and come with longer waiting times (sometimes 6-12 months).
It’s also important to consider additional costs, such as:
- Medication – which may range from SGD 20 to over SGD 100 per month depending on the type and dosage
- Psychotherapy sessions – if offered by the psychiatrist or referred out, these may cost S$150 to S$300+ per session
To help manage these expenses, check if the psychiatrist is on your insurance provider’s panel. Many integrated shield plans or corporate health insurance schemes cover mental health treatment, though coverage levels vary. If you’re using MediSave, you can claim up to S$500 per year for outpatient treatment of approved chronic mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and anxiety under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP).
Additionally, some clinics accept CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) cards, which offer further subsidies for eligible Singaporeans. For example, CHAS Blue cardholders may receive up to S$80 subsidy per visit, depending on the services rendered.
Before committing, don’t hesitate to call the clinic and ask for a breakdown of fees, insurance acceptance, and payment options. This helps ensure that your care is both effective and financially sustainable in the long term.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right psychiatrist in Singapore is crucial for navigating the complex journey of mental health recovery and wellness. With diverse specialisations, from child and adolescent care to adult psychiatry, and treatments ranging from medication to holistic approaches like art therapy, these professionals are committed to offering personalised care. Their expertise ensures that individuals receive the support they need to overcome challenges and achieve a balanced state of mental well-being, marking a significant step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
