What is Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry?

It's a specialized field of psychiatry focusing on the mental health care of people with co-occurring medical illnesses, often within a hospital setting. They help manage mental health challenges that arise from or affect physical health conditions.

How is it different from a general psychiatrist?

While both are psychiatrists, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrists have extra training and experience in how mental health intertwines with complex medical problems, surgical care, and hospital environments. They are experts in the mind-body connection in medically ill patients.

Do they only see patients in the hospital?

While a primary focus is often in-hospital care, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrists may also see patients in outpatient clinics, especially those dealing with chronic medical illnesses that impact their mental health.

Will they replace my other doctors?

No, they work as part of your healthcare team, collaborating with your primary care doctor, specialists, and hospital staff. Their role is to provide mental health expertise to optimize your overall care.

What kinds of treatments do they offer?

They offer a range of treatments, including medication management, brief psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and consultations on how mental health affects physical care decisions. They tailor treatment to your specific needs.

Is my information kept private?

Yes, just like with any doctor, your medical and mental health information is confidential. They will discuss your care with your other medical team members only as necessary for your treatment and with your consent.

Find a Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Near You

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License verified Board certified

Finding yourself in the hospital can be a scary and confusing time. When you’re dealing with a serious medical illness or injury, it’s not unusual for your mind to feel just as stressed as your body. This is where Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry can help. These doctors specialize in understanding how mental health affects physical health, and vice-versa, especially during a hospital stay or when you’re managing complex medical conditions.

Think of them as helping to connect the dots between your physical symptoms and your emotional well-being. They work closely with your other doctors to provide care that looks at you as a whole person, not just your illness. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other emotional challenges linked to your health issues, a Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist can offer support, diagnosis, and treatment to improve your overall recovery and comfort.

Conditions treated

Delirium
Depression in illness
Anxiety related to health
Psychotic disorders in hospital
Substance use in hospital
Adjustment to chronic illness
Suicidal thoughts in hospital
Catatonia

Common procedures

Mental status evaluation
Medication management
Brief psychotherapy
Capacity assessment
Family meetings
Withdrawal management
Grief support
Crisis intervention

When to see a consultation-liaison psychiatry

You are experiencing strong anxiety or panic during a hospital stay.
You have new or worsening depression while managing a medical condition.
You are feeling very confused or disoriented in the hospital.
You are struggling to cope emotionally with a new diagnosis or chronic illness.
Your doctors are concerned about your memory or decision-making ability.
You are having trouble sleeping or eating due to your medical condition.
You are going through substance withdrawal in a medical setting.

First visit

At your first visit, the doctor will talk with you about your medical history, your current symptoms, and how you are feeling emotionally. They will ask questions to understand the full picture of your health. This helps them create a personalized care plan that supports both your physical and mental well-being.

Typical cost

An out-of-pocket visit for Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry can range from $150 to $500 or more before insurance, depending on the complexity of the visit and location.

Insurance

Most health insurance plans typically cover Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry visits, often under your mental health benefits.

How to choose the right consultation-liaison psychiatry

1Check their board certification in psychiatry and Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry.
2Consider their experience with conditions similar to yours.
3Ask about their approach to working with other medical teams.
4Confirm they accept your health insurance plan.
5Inquire about the possibility of telehealth services if appropriate.
6Look for a compassionate and clear communicator.
7Read patient reviews for insights into their care style.