Psychiatry in Barcelona: comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders
Psychiatry is the medical speciality dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental disorders. Unlike other specialities, it integrates the biological, psychological and social perspective of the human being to understand how mental illnesses originate and are maintained, and to design the most appropriate treatment for each person.
At Glasir Salud, our psychiatrists carry out complete and individualised clinical assessments, establish precise diagnoses and design treatment plans that may include pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. All of this is done in close coordination with the team of psychologists, neuropsychologists and other professionals at the centre.
We believe that quality psychiatric treatment goes far beyond prescribing medication. It involves accompanying the person, explaining what is happening to them, involving them in decisions about their treatment and building a trusting therapeutic relationship that sustains the process.
What does psychiatry treat at Glasir Salud?
Depressive disorders
- Major depression (single or recurrent episode)
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders
- Depression in the context of medical illness
Anxiety disorders
- Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Social phobia (social anxiety disorder)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Bipolar and mood disorders
- Bipolar disorder type I and type II
- Cyclothymia
- Schizoaffective disorder
Psychotic disorders
- Schizophrenia and psychosis spectrum
- Delusional disorder
- Acute psychotic episodes
- Affective psychosis
ADHD in adults
ADHD does not disappear in adulthood. Many adults come to the consultation having never received a diagnosis, having interpreted their difficulties with concentration, organisation, impulsivity or emotional instability as character traits. Diagnostic assessment and treatment (pharmacological and/or psychological) can significantly improve quality of life.
Personality disorders
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Narcissistic, avoidant, dependent, paranoid disorder, etc.
- Crisis intervention and stabilisation
Addictions and substance-related disorders
- Assessment and treatment of dependence on alcohol, cannabis and other substances
- Dual disorders (addiction + concurrent mental disorder)
Sleep disorders
- Chronic insomnia
- Hypersomnia and circadian rhythm disruptions
- Recurrent nightmare disorder
Child and adolescent psychiatry
- Mood disorders in children and adolescents
- Anxiety disorders in childhood
- Early-onset psychosis
- Eating disorders in adolescents
- Self-harm behaviours and risk in adolescents
What is the first psychiatric consultation like?
The first consultation lasts longer than follow-up appointments and is dedicated to taking a complete clinical history: personal and family background, history of the current problem, present symptoms, risk assessment and factors that may be contributing to the condition.
At the end of the first consultation, the psychiatrist shares their diagnostic impressions with the patient, explains the available treatment options and jointly agrees on the plan to follow. If the case requires coordination with other members of the team, this is arranged at that point.
Languages of care
Catalan · Spanish · English · Italian · French · German · Portuguese · Russian · Ukrainian · Serbian · Romanian
Psychological therapy is most effective when conducted in the language in which the patient thinks and feels. Please let us know your preferred language when booking an appointment.
Pharmacological treatment: what should I know?
Is medication always required?
No. Many conditions are treated effectively with psychotherapy alone. The psychiatrist assesses in each case whether pharmacological treatment is indicated, may be useful, or is not necessary.
Does it cause dependency?
It depends on the medication. Some psychiatric drugs (such as certain anxiolytics) have dependency potential and are prescribed under strict criteria. Others (antidepressants, mood stabilisers, antipsychotics) do not cause dependency. We will explain this to you in detail.
How long does it take to work?
Antidepressants and mood stabilisers generally require between 2 and 6 weeks to show their full effect. Follow-up during this phase is particularly important.
Can I stop taking the medication?
Always under medical supervision. The withdrawal of psychiatric medication must be done gradually and in a planned manner. It is never advisable to stop suddenly without the psychiatrist's indication.
Coordination with psychology and neuropsychology
At Glasir Salud, psychiatry does not work in isolation. When the case requires it, the psychiatrist coordinates directly with the psychologists and neuropsychologists on the team to offer truly integrated treatment. This is especially relevant in complex cases such as borderline personality disorder, ADHD, treatment-resistant depression or dual disorders.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between seeing a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
The psychiatrist is a doctor specialised in mental health and can prescribe medication. The psychologist does not prescribe medication but works with psychotherapy. In many cases the combination of both offers the best results. At Glasir Salud we work in a coordinated way to ensure the patient always has the most comprehensive approach.
Can I book an appointment with the psychiatrist directly or do I need a referral from my doctor?
You can request an appointment directly, without the need for a prior referral. If you have previous medical reports or are taking medication, it is useful to bring them to the first consultation.
Can the psychiatrist see me in another language?
Yes. We have psychiatrists who see patients in several languages. Please indicate your language preference when booking the appointment and we will assign the most suitable professional.
Is psychiatry covered by health insurance?
Yes, in general. Psychiatry is a medical speciality included in most health insurance policies. Please consult the insurance companies we work with in the agreements section of our website.
Request first psychiatric consultation
