There are hundreds of different careers in the medical field, ranging from neurosurgeons to nurse practitioners. Psychiatry deals specifically with the diagnosis and treatment of mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. The main goal of a psychiatrist is to help people deal with problems and stresses in their environments that make it difficult to maintain a normal, healthy lifestyle. These problems can arise from abuse, addiction, mental disability, illness, or physical injury. It is the psychiatrist's job to ensure that the patient can maintain a healthy attitude and continue to support themselves. A psychiatrist may choose to specialize in many subclasses of mental health, including child and adolescent, geriatric psychiatry, substance abuse, and pain management. While requiring intense and difficult training, the profession of psychiatrist offers meaningful and fulfilling work and a high-end salary. Psychiatrists provide different treatments to patients than most other doctors. They must not only diagnose and medically treat their patients, but also ensure that the patient does not pose a threat to themselves or others. They will meet patients regularly; this can be biweekly, weekly, or twice or more per week. A psychiatrist must get to know his patients and know everything about them. In doing so, they can assess their situation and give advice and support accordingly. The psychiatrist generally begins by taking a thorough history of the patient; document any information that may be relevant. This information may include medical history, any abuse as a child/adolescent, and any other knowledge that may lead to a better understanding of the patient's needs. The shrink... middle of paper... failed. Caring for patients with mental health problems is very stressful and it can sometimes be difficult, even for the doctor, to cope with the difficulties. In many cases, their patients' lives depend on the doctor's ability to properly assess and treat their illness. It's a job that's not for the faint of heart, but if you're willing to apply yourself to the fullest of your abilities, then all that hard work will almost certainly pay off in the end. Works Cited by Brunilda Nazario, MD. “Guide to psychiatry and counseling. » Web MD, January 9. 2012. Web. November 27. 2012. “Care team of doctors (psychiatrist), nurses and therapists to help patients reach their potential.” » Careers in Rehabilitation Medicine, 2012. Web. November 27. 2012. “Psychiatrist Careers: Job Description and Salary Information.” » Diploma Guide, 2012. Web. November 27. 2012.