How to become a psychiatrist in India

Learn how to become a psychiatrist in India with our comprehensive guide. Discover the education and training requirements, licensing process, and career opportunities available in this rewarding field. Start your journey towards a fulfilling career in psychiatry today.?

Free Career Test

To become a psychiatrist in India, one must follow these steps:

1. Complete a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) from a recognized medical college or university.

2. After completing MBBS, one must complete a postgraduate degree in psychiatry, which is a three-year course. The degree can be either Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Diploma in Psychological Medicine (DPM).

3. After completing the postgraduate degree, one must register with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the state medical council to practice as a psychiatrist.

4. To specialize in a particular area of psychiatry, one can pursue a fellowship or a super-specialty course in the field.

5. Continuing medical education is essential for psychiatrists to keep themselves updated with the latest developments in the field.

6. To practice as a psychiatrist, one must obtain a license from the state medical council and renew it periodically.

7. Apart from the academic qualifications, a psychiatrist must possess excellent communication skills, empathy, and the ability to understand and analyze human behavior.

Build your free Personality Resume

Get started

Key skills and competencies

To become a successful psychiatrist in India, it is important to possess a range of key skills and competencies. Firstly, excellent communication skills are essential, as psychiatrists need to be able to build strong relationships with their patients and communicate complex information in a clear and concise manner. Additionally, strong analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial, as psychiatrists need to be able to diagnose and treat a range of mental health conditions. Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude are also important traits for psychiatrists to possess, as they work with patients who may be experiencing significant emotional distress. Finally, a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development is essential, as the field of psychiatry is constantly evolving and changing.

Local salary expectations or estimates

As a psychiatrist in India, the salary expectations can vary depending on several factors such as experience, location, and type of employer. On average, a psychiatrist in India can expect to earn between Rs. 6-10 lakhs per annum. However, those working in private hospitals or clinics may earn significantly more. Additionally, those with advanced degrees or specialized training may also command higher salaries. It is important to note that the demand for psychiatrists in India is increasing, which may lead to higher salaries in the future. Overall, becoming a psychiatrist in India can be a rewarding career both financially and personally.

Discover your career fit

Free Career Interest Test

Free Personality tests

All of the following assessment tools explore an individual's personality thoroughly, although the Big5 is the gold standard among personality assessments. And what’s key is that are all available for free here:

Free Strengthsfinder test

Free DISC test

Free Career test

Free Personality test (Big Five)

Free Myers-Briggs test (Jungian test)

Free Job test

Free Enneagram test

Free Growth mindset test

Free Emotional Intelligence test

Check out our remote job board

Get started