Professional Overview
Meet Dr. Ruja Shrestha
Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766) is a Consultant Psychiatrist and CBT Therapist based in Kathmandu, Nepal. She holds an MBBS degree and an MD in Psychiatry, with additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) obtained in India. Dr. Shrestha provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and evidence-based psychotherapy including CBT for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, addiction, and other mental health concerns. Her clinical approach integrates psychopharmacology with structured psychotherapeutic interventions, including cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. She is committed to patient-centered care, clear communication, and evidence-based treatment planning for individuals across the lifespan.
Verified credentials
- NMC
- NMC 19766
- Hours
- By appointment
Verify NMC 19766 at the Nepal Medical Council registry ↗
Affiliations
- - Kathmandu-based Consultant Psychiatrist & CBT Therapist
- - Clinical practice in Nepal
Qualifications
All qualifications are verified and current.
- MBBS
- MD (Psychiatry)
Education and training
- MBBS - Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
- MD (Psychiatry) - Doctor of Medicine in Psychiatry
- CBT Training - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (India)
Specialties
Conditions Evaluated
Each with a dedicated guide where available.
Services
Psychiatry Consultation
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation for mood, anxiety, psychosis, and other mental health concerns, including medication assessment and long-term care planning.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Structured, evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and related conditions.
Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Evaluation and management of generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and phobias.
Depression Treatment
Evaluation and treatment for major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and depressive episodes associated with medical conditions.
Trauma & PTSD Treatment
Assessment and treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, acute stress reactions, and trauma-related conditions.
Addiction Psychiatry
Evaluation for substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions.
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatric evaluation for children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional, or developmental concerns.
Geriatric Psychiatry
Psychiatric evaluation for older adults, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and cognitive-behavioral changes associated with aging.
Bipolar Disorder Management
Evaluation and longitudinal management for bipolar I and bipolar II disorders, including mood episode prevention and relapse planning.
OCD Treatment
Evaluation and treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder, including intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and related conditions.
Consultation
Patient care is guided by thorough psychiatric evaluation, transparent communication, evidence-based treatment planning, and a combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The focus is on accurate diagnosis, collaborative goal-setting, and individualized care that addresses the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of mental health.
- Initial Psychiatric Evaluation (45-60m): Comprehensive psychiatric assessment including presenting complaints, mental status examination, psychosocial history, substance use history, medical history review, risk assessment, and diagnostic formulation.
- Collaborative Treatment Planning: Shared decision-making regarding treatment options including psychotherapy modalities, pharmacotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up scheduling.
- Psychotherapy Sessions: Regular structured psychotherapy sessions utilizing evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, DBT skills, exposure therapy, or psychodynamic therapy as indicated.
- Medication Management: Psychopharmacological management when indicated, including medication initiation, dose optimization, side effect monitoring, and regular reassessment.
- Follow-up and Long-term Care: Ongoing monitoring, treatment adjustment, relapse prevention planning, and coordination with other healthcare providers as needed.
Authority Topics
Articles
Understanding Anxiety Disorders: Types, Symptoms, and Evidence-Based Approaches
A comprehensive overview of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, and phobias — with guidance on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment pathways.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: How It Works and What to Expect
An evidence-based explanation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — the therapeutic process, core techniques, conditions treated, and what research shows about its effectiveness.
Recognizing Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
How to identify the signs and symptoms of major depressive disorder, understand its impact on daily functioning, and recognize when professional support may be beneficial.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Understanding Trauma and Recovery
An overview of PTSD — its diagnostic criteria, common symptoms, how trauma affects the brain and body, and evidence-based treatments that support recovery.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Understanding Its Impact on Daily Life
How OCD manifests in everyday routines, the distinction between obsessions and compulsions, and what current evidence says about effective treatments.
Bipolar Disorder Explained: Mania, Depression, and Managing the Cycle
An overview of bipolar disorder — the distinction between Bipolar I and Bipolar II, the nature of manic and depressive episodes, and current treatment approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reviewed by Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766).
Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766) — MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), Consultant Psychiatrist & CBT Therapist based in Kathmandu, Nepal. Part of Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal.
Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mental Health, Clinical Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders — with dedicated expertise in Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder, Cyclothymia.
Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal. Hours by appointment. Phone 974-7736624.
Bring prior imaging and lab reports, current medication list, allergy history, symptom diary if applicable, and notes on onset and triggers.
Patient care is guided by thorough psychiatric evaluation, transparent communication, evidence-based treatment planning, and a combination of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The focus is on accurate diagnosis, collaborative goal-setting, and individualized care that addresses the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of mental health.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, evidence-based talk therapy that identifies unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and builds practical coping skills. Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766) trained in CBT in India and integrates it with psychiatric care — including cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques — for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and addiction.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MBBS, MD in Psychiatry) who can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage medication, and provide psychotherapy. A psychologist or counselor provides talk therapy but does not prescribe medication. Dr. Ruja Shrestha (NMC 19766) offers both sides of care: comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and medication management together with evidence-based psychotherapy including CBT — useful when it is unclear whether medication, therapy, or both are needed.
Psychiatrists treat a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, substance use disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, sleep disorders related to mental health, and cognitive disorders. Dr. Shrestha provides comprehensive psychiatric assessment and management for adults and adolescents in Kathmandu.
The first appointment involves a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including your presenting concerns, mental health history, medical history, family history, medication history, social and occupational functioning, and a mental status examination. Dr. Shrestha uses standardized assessment tools and develops a collaborative treatment plan tailored to your needs.
No. Psychiatrists are trained in both psychopharmacology (medication management) and psychotherapy. Dr. Ruja Shrestha combines medication with evidence-based psychotherapy, particularly CBT, to provide comprehensive treatment. The decision to use medication, therapy, or both is based on individual patient needs.
Duration varies depending on the condition, severity, and individual response. Some conditions may require short-term intervention (e.g., adjustment disorders, acute anxiety), while others may benefit from longer-term management (e.g., bipolar disorder, chronic depression). Dr. Shrestha regularly reviews progress and collaborates with patients to adjust treatment plans.
Most psychiatric medications are not addictive. Medications like benzodiazepines carry a risk of dependence with long-term use, so they are prescribed cautiously. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics are generally not addictive. Dr. Shrestha monitors for dependence risk and follows evidence-based prescribing guidelines.
CBT is one of the most effective psychotherapies for depression. It helps patients identify negative automatic thoughts, challenge cognitive distortions, and engage in activities that improve mood. Research shows that combining CBT with antidepressant medication often produces better outcomes than either treatment alone. Dr. Shrestha uses CBT techniques tailored to each patient's needs.
Yes. Anxiety disorders and panic attacks are among the most treatable mental health conditions. Treatment may include SSRIs or SNRIs, CBT, relaxation techniques, and exposure therapy. Dr. Ruja Shrestha provides comprehensive anxiety management including medication optimization and CBT-based interventions.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by episodes of mania (elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity) and depression. It requires long-term management with mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. Dr. Shrestha provides ongoing monitoring, medication management, and psychoeducation for individuals with bipolar disorder.
Schizophrenia is primarily treated with antipsychotic medications, combined with psychosocial interventions including CBT for psychosis, family therapy, social skills training, and vocational rehabilitation. Early and consistent treatment improves long-term outcomes. Dr. Shrestha provides comprehensive schizophrenia management in Kathmandu.
Yes. Dr. Ruja Shrestha provides assessment and treatment for substance use disorders including alcohol, opioids, cannabis, and other substances. Treatment may involve motivational interviewing, CBT for addiction, relapse prevention planning, medication-assisted treatment where appropriate, and coordination with rehabilitation services.
Yes. All psychiatric consultations and treatment records are strictly confidential in accordance with medical ethics and Nepal Medical Council regulations. Information is shared only with the patient's explicit consent, except in rare circumstances involving immediate risk of harm to self or others.
Standardized rating scales such as PHQ-9 (depression), GAD-7 (anxiety), Y-BOCS (OCD), PCL-5 (PTSD), MDQ (bipolar), and AUDIT/DAST (substance use) are used to quantify symptom severity, track treatment progress, and guide clinical decision-making. Dr. Shrestha incorporates these tools into her clinical practice.
Bring a list of current medications, previous psychiatric records if available, and be prepared to discuss your symptoms, their duration, impact on daily functioning, any triggering events, family mental health history, and your treatment goals. Written notes can help ensure nothing is missed during the consultation.
Dr. Shrestha has clinical interest and expertise in child and adolescent psychiatry, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions. Assessment and treatment are tailored to the developmental stage and involve family collaboration.
No. Most psychiatric medications should be tapered gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms or relapse. Dr. Shrestha provides careful medication discontinuation plans when appropriate, with close monitoring throughout the tapering process.
Medical Disclaimer
Content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.