Clinical Psychiatry

Specialist Assessment & Treatment

Anxiety

Depression

OCD

Bipolar

PTSD

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Psychosis

ANXIETY

Are you struggling with anxiety that impacts your personal life, career, and social interactions?

Auckland Psychiatrist focuses on diagnosing and treating anxiety. Our experienced psychiatrists will assist you in managing your symptoms and developing a personalized treatment plan. Anxiety symptoms differ for each person—some may have just a couple, while others may experience many. Common signs include constant worry, fear, tiredness, trouble concentrating, dizziness, upset stomach, irritability, restlessness, sleep issues, rapid heartbeat, sweating, muscle tension, heavy breathing, and shaking.

Anxiety medications can reduce feelings of anxiety, helping you manage daily life and face challenges. Various medications are available in NZ, but you may not need them. Your doctor will assess your situation, track your progress, and may prescribe medication if it would be beneficial for you.

 

DEPRESSION

Are you or someone you know struggling with depression?

At Auckland Psychiatrist, our experienced team can assess and treat depression across New Zealand, including prescribing medication. It's normal to feel sad occasionally, but if these feelings are strong, last a long time, or interfere with your daily life, you may have clinical depression. Getting help can be difficult, but it's an important step. We provide thorough assessments to ensure an accurate diagnosis and create a suitable treatment plan. Our psychiatrists will help you understand your challenges and offer tools for a happier life.


In New Zealand, medication for severe depression is available. Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. These medications help balance serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood. Many patients experience positive results with SSRIs. The most effective treatment for depression combines medication with therapy.

 

OCD

We can assist with OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, a mental health issue characterized by repeated unwanted thoughts or actions. Symptoms can get worse over time and interfere with daily life. Early help is important, as treatment can ease these effects. Our Auckland specialists offer precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans to address the causes of your obsessions and compulsions, helping you manage them effectively.

Common OCD symptoms include intrusive thoughts or fears (obsessions) that cause doubt. This often results in repetitive actions (compulsions) that can be time-consuming. Treatment for OCD typically involves medications, mainly SSRIs, and talking therapy can also be beneficial.

 

BIPOLAR DISORDER

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression, where they feel low, and mania, where they feel very high and energetic. Each phase can last weeks, and many struggle to feel a normal mood in between.

Depressive phase:

  • Sadness or hopelessness

  • Uncontrollable crying

  • Anxiety

  • Losing interest in activities

  • Isolating from others

  • Excessive guilt

Manic phase:

  • Euphoria or high mood

  • Increased energy

  • Talkativeness

  • Rapid thoughts

  • Less need for sleep

  • High self-esteem

  • Impulsive spending

  • Irritability

Bipolar disorder can be treated effectively, though it may recur. At Auckland Psychiatrist, we encourage patients to be aware of their condition and seek help when necessary. Identifying triggers for episodes and managing them is crucial. We assist patients in understanding emotional or social factors that could affect their treatment.

 

PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) involves symptoms like unwanted memories, avoidance of reminders, mood changes, and increased alertness, which can disrupt daily life. Treatment typically combines therapy and medication, with antidepressants like SSRIs often used to relieve depression and anxiety. Other medications, such as benzodiazepines or prazosin, may help with issues like insomnia or nightmares. It's crucial for individuals to collaborate with their healthcare providers to create a personalised treatment plan.

 

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that affects how people interact socially, communicate, and behave. At Auckland Psychiatrist, we provide comprehensive assessments and create personalised treatment plans for those with ASD. Our skilled psychiatrists use proven methods, including medications for related mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

 

PSYCHOSIS

Psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, are mental health issues that cause serious problems with thoughts, perceptions, and emotions. People with these disorders may experience delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking, affecting their daily lives and well-being. Treatment typically includes antipsychotic medications that help manage these symptoms by acting on brain chemicals like dopamine. While these medications can reduce psychotic symptoms and improve daily functioning, it is crucial for a healthcare professional to supervise treatment since responses to medication can differ and side effects may arise. Additionally, therapy and social support are key parts of a treatment plan, helping individuals develop coping skills and enhance social interactions.