Your first visit to a psychiatry clinic in Korea: what to expect

Where should you go?

• Neighborhood psychiatry clinics (의원): relatively easy to book and handle most depression, anxiety, and insomnia. This is the usual place to start.
• University hospitals: suited to complex diagnoses or when hospitalization is needed. To get full national health insurance coverage at a tertiary hospital, you need a referral letter.
• Community mental health welfare centers: if a hospital feels like too much, you can start with free counseling here.

How the first appointment goes

1. 1After checking in, you fill out a short questionnaire or self-check.
2. 2You talk with the doctor about what has been hard and since when, and how your sleep, meals, and daily life are going.
3. 3You may be offered psychological testing. It is optional, and you can ask about the cost first.
4. 4You decide on a treatment plan together (medication, counseling, or watchful waiting). If medication worries you, say so honestly.

It helps to bring notes: your main symptoms, when they started, any medications you take, and whether family members have had similar conditions.

How much does it cost?

Psychiatric care is covered by Korea's National Health Insurance. At a clinic, typical consultation and medication costs are similar to other specialties, but longer counseling sessions or psychological tests cost more. Prices vary, so ask for a rough estimate when booking.

If cost is a concern, you can use free counseling at community mental health welfare centers or the national psychological counseling support program (see "Mental health support you can get without worrying about money").

Will a medical record hurt me later?

Medical records are protected under the Medical Service Act, and employers or schools cannot look them up without your consent. If you receive counseling only, without medication, the visit can be recorded under a general counseling code (Z code) instead of a psychiatric diagnosis code.

However, a history of treatment may matter for some licenses and qualifications or when applying for insurance. See "Medical records, jobs, and insurance: myths and facts" for details.