When Do You Need a Psychiatrist vs a Psychologist?
Both treat mental health conditions — but they differ in training, approach and the treatments they provide.
Referral required
Mohan Shankarappa
MBBS, DPM, FRANZCP
Consultant Psychiatrist
Expert psychiatric assessment and medication management for complex mental health needs.
About Mohan
Dr Mohan Shankarappa is a Consultant Psychiatrist at Mind Health Associates with over 15 years of experience in both public and private psychiatric settings across Australia and internationally.
Mohan specialises in the assessment and management of complex mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, personality disorders and treatment-resistant conditions. He takes a holistic view of mental health — integrating biological, psychological and social factors in every formulation.
He works collaboratively with the psychology team to provide coordinated care, including psychiatric assessment, medication management, and shared-care arrangements for clients with complex presentations.
Dr Shankarappa is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP) and is deeply committed to reducing stigma and improving access to high-quality psychiatric care for all Australians.
Areas of Focus
DepressionAnxiety & PanicAdjustmentBurnoutMood DisordersPsychosisADHDPersonality DisordersMedication ManagementTreatment-Resistant ConditionsForensic PsychiatryShared Care
Therapeutic Approaches
Pharmacotherapy
Evidence-based psychiatric medication management
Psychiatric Assessment
Comprehensive biopsychosocial formulation
Collaborative Care
Coordinated approach with psychology team
CBT
Cognitive-behavioural support alongside medication
Assessments & Interventions
Funding & Referrals
A Mental Health Care Plan from your GP may be required for some schemes. Talk to us about your options.
Qualifications & Training
Fellow, Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists
RANZCP
2012
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
Bangalore Medical College
2001
Diploma in Psychological Medicine
RANZCP
2009
Insights
From Mohan's desk
Medication for Mental Health: Myths and Evidence
Psychiatric medication is one of the most evidence-based tools in mental health — and one of the most misunderstood.
What Is a Mental Health Assessment?
A proper psychiatric assessment is more than a checklist — it's a comprehensive understanding of your whole situation.