What to look for in a psychiatrist
When choosing a psychiatrist, consider their qualifications (medical degree, postgraduate specialization), registration with the Nepal Medical Council, clinical experience, and treatment approach. A good psychiatrist will conduct a thorough evaluation before recommending treatment, explain the rationale for any medication or therapy, and involve you in shared decision-making.
It is also important to find a psychiatrist whose communication style suits you. Mental health treatment often requires ongoing collaboration, so comfort with your psychiatrist and confidence in their expertise matters for treatment engagement and outcomes.
- Nepal Medical Council registration (verify NMC number)
- Specialized training in psychiatry (MD or equivalent)
- Experience with your specific condition or concern
- Clear communication about diagnosis, treatment options, and follow-up
- Availability for ongoing care and appointment accessibility
Related: Psychiatry → · Dr. Jitendra Knowledge Hub → · ICHD-3 Topic →
About Dr. Ruja Shrestha
Dr. Ruja Shrestha is a Consultant Psychiatrist and CBT Therapist registered with the Nepal Medical Council (NMC 19766). She holds an MBBS degree and an MD in Psychiatry, with additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) obtained in India. Her clinical practice covers mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (GAD, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias), OCD, PTSD, addiction psychiatry, insomnia, and other mental health conditions.
Dr. Shrestha integrates psychopharmacology with evidence-based psychotherapy, including CBT, exposure therapy, behavioral activation, and mindfulness-based techniques. She emphasizes thorough diagnostic evaluation, transparent communication about treatment options, and collaborative care planning with patients and families.
- MBBS and MD (Psychiatry) qualified
- CBT trained (India) — structured cognitive-behavioral therapy
- NMC 19766 registered
- Covers mood, anxiety, trauma, addiction, child/adolescent, geriatric psychiatry
- Combines medication management with psychotherapy
Booking and what to bring
Appointments are available by calling +977-9747736624 or booking through /book-appointment. The initial consultation typically lasts 45–60 minutes to allow thorough evaluation. Follow-up appointments are usually 20–30 minutes. Telepsychiatry consultations are available for patients who prefer remote access.
For your first appointment, bring a list of current medications (including doses), any previous psychiatric records or reports, and a brief written summary of your main concerns if possible. This helps ensure a focused and productive consultation.
| What to prepare | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Medication list with doses | Avoids interactions, enables review |
| Previous psychiatric records | Provides context for current evaluation |
| Brief symptom summary | Helps organize thoughts before the visit |
| List of questions | Ensures your concerns are addressed |