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Psychiatrist Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-221208
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications1

Occupation overview

Diagnoses, assesses, treats and prevents human mental, emotional and behavioural disorders.

What does a Psychiatrist do?

A psychiatrist assesses people experiencing mental, emotional or behavioural disorders, identifies possible conditions, provides treatment and works to prevent these difficulties from worsening. Psychiatrists may focus on particular groups or settings, such as children and adolescents, older people, forensic patients or medical psychotherapy.

Specialisations

Adolescent PsychiatristChild PsychiatristForensic PsychiatristGeriatric PsychiatristMedical PsychotherapistPsychogeriatrician

How to become a Psychiatrist in South Africa

  1. Explore the field of psychiatry and the assessment, treatment and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioural disorders.
  2. Follow the relevant professional education and training pathway for psychiatry, including the Fellowship: College of Psychiatrists (SAQA ID 16628, NQF Level 10, 360 credits).
  3. Confirm the current requirements for admission, delivery, assessment and professional registration with the relevant official bodies and training providers.
  4. Consider a specialisation such as child, adolescent, forensic, geriatric or medical psychotherapy after establishing the appropriate professional pathway.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

Develop a strong understanding of human mental, emotional and behavioural health. Learn about the different groups psychiatrists may serve, including children, adolescents and older people, as well as forensic and psychotherapy-focused practice. Verify current training and registration details with the relevant official bodies before choosing a programme.

Useful school subjects

  • Life Sciences
  • English
  • Mathematics

Skills that may help

  • Assessment and diagnosis
  • Treatment planning
  • Understanding mental, emotional and behavioural disorders
  • Preventive care
  • Communication with people experiencing mental or emotional difficulties
  • Working with different age groups and specialised patient needs

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.