When choosing a medical specialty, it's important to have access to a more comprehensive overview of the specialty's field of practice to understand if it's truly the right area for you.
This analysis should primarily take into account factors such as: your professional profile, skills, and field of work.
But beyond that, it's important to align your expectations with the average salary in the field.
In this article, you will understand if Psychiatry is the right career path for you and what the average salary is in the field.
What does a psychiatrist do?
Playing a crucial role in the identification, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders, Psychiatry is a medical specialty that has emerged as one of the fastest-growing areas in the healthcare field in recent times.
Much of this is due to the great emphasis placed on mental and emotional health issues in contemporary society.
But what does a psychiatrist actually do?
Well, a psychiatrist primarily works by ordering medical tests and screening for genetic and hormonal issues that aid in diagnosis and guide the possibility of using medications and other treatments for symptoms of previously identified disorders.
Conditions that can be treated by a psychiatrist include:
- Chemical dependency;
- Depression, anxiety and stress;
- Psychiatric and mental health disorders;
- Schizophrenia.
A psychiatrist can also work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, always seeking the most complete and effective treatment for the patient.
For example, in the treatment of fibromyalgia, a chronic clinical condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, the psychiatrist works in partnership with a neurologist and/or physiatrist.
How much does a psychiatrist earn?
According to the website salario.com.br and data from Novo Caged, today, a Psychiatrist can earn from R$9,828.67/month up to a maximum of R$19,715.85.
But it's important to remember that a psychiatrist's salary, as with other specialties, can vary depending on the region of practice, the sector in which they are hired, and their experience.
Does the region influence how much a psychiatrist earns?
As with other specialties, the region where a psychiatrist practices also influences their salary.
In São Paulo, a psychiatrist's salary can reach up to R$20,000.00.
In Rio de Janeiro, that same professional would have an average salary of R$18,000.00.
In Rio Grande do Sul, the average salary is up to R$15,000.00.
Does the field of work influence a psychiatrist's salary?
Public or private sector, which one pays more?
Well, in the public sector, as with the salaries of other professionals, the psychiatrist's salary is regulated by salary scales and career plans.
Initially, a psychiatrist can start with a minimum salary of R$6,000.00 and reach up to R$12,000.00 with promotions.
In the private sector, however, remuneration tends to be higher, ranging from R$15,000.00 to R$20,000.00 per month, depending on the professional's experience and reputation.
Does the level of professional experience influence a psychiatrist's salary?
Just like in any medical career, a doctor's salary will always vary according to their experience and professional reputation.
In other words, it's impossible to expect a salary cap if you're a psychiatrist who has just graduated from postgraduate studies or recently completed residency.
It takes a lot of study and patience to grow in the medical field and gain more space and recognition.
Bachelor's degree in Psychiatry
Now that you know that Psychiatry is the field for you and your expectations are aligned with the average market salary, let's talk a little about postgraduate studies in Psychiatry.
Medical postgraduate studies are an alternative to traditional medical residency, combining practical experience with a solid theoretical foundation in up-to-date and innovative content.
Click here to learn about our postgraduate options!
