A psychiatrist is …

… a medical specialist who helps people with abnormal thinking, mood and behaviour. Aware of the importance of developmental context and psychological, social and cultural factors, the psychiatrist brings particular knowledge of biological factors, including somatic illness, to the multi-professional team. Embracing complexity, the psychiatrist is a critical but pragmatic thinker who seeks evidence, advocates research and uses comprehensive diagnosis to guide effective risk assessment and treatment. Acknowledging the important contributions of non-medical colleagues, and aware of the limitations of medical approaches, the psychiatrist provides clinical leadership, teaching and supervision when required, always placing patient interests at the heart of actions.