Frequently Asked Questions

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MBBS, MD) who can diagnose mental health conditions, evaluate how your physical and mental health interact, counsel, provide talk therapy, and prescribe medications. A psychologist specializes in talk therapy and counseling but does not prescribe medicine. If you suspect a mental health condition, you should see a psychiatrist first for a comprehensive medical diagnosis, to rule out medical causes of psychiatric symptoms, and for holistic management. We often work together, and I frequently recommend therapy alongside medication.

This is a very common and understandable fear, but the majority of psychiatric medications—such as antidepressants and antipsychotics—are strictly non-addictive. They do not cause a ‘high’ or cravings. There is a specific class of medications (like certain anti-anxiety pills or sleeping tablets) that can cause dependence if misused, but these are only prescribed for short durations under strict clinical supervision. My approach relies on modern, evidence-based pharmacotherapy to ensure your safety and long-term health.

The first visit is about understanding your complete story. We will discuss your current symptoms, medical history, family background, and any life stressors. I will ask questions to understand both the biological and psychological factors contributing to your distress. By the end of the session, we will discuss a clear diagnosis and build a collaborative treatment plan, which may include medication, lifestyle changes, or counseling.

I provide a holistic approach that integrates both. While medication is often necessary to stabilize chemical imbalances in the brain, targeted counseling and psychotherapy are equally important for building long-term mental resilience, changing negative thought patterns, and managing stress.

There is no overnight cure for psychiatric conditions; treatment is a process. For medications like antidepressants, it typically takes 2 to 6 weeks to feel the full benefits. The total duration of treatment varies widely depending on the severity of the illness. Some patients may only need treatment for 6 to 18 months, while others with chronic conditions (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder) may require long-term maintenance. We will regularly review your progress to ensure you are on the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time.

Absolutely. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of psychiatric care. Everything you share in the consultation room remains strictly between us. The only ethical and legal exceptions to this rule are if you express a clear, immediate intent to harm yourself or someone else, in which case I have a medical duty to intervene to keep you safe.

Yes. Behavioral addictions—such as excessive internet use, online gaming, and gambling—hijack the brain’s reward system much like chemical substances do. I treat these conditions by addressing the underlying psychological triggers (which often include untreated anxiety, depression, or ADHD) and using targeted counseling to help you regain control over your habits and lifestyle.

Yes, family involvement is often highly beneficial. Family members can provide valuable insights into your symptoms that you might not notice yourself, and their support is crucial for your recovery. However, I usually dedicate a portion of the consultation to speak with you one-on-one to ensure you have a private, safe space to discuss sensitive issues you may not want to share with relatives.

If you experience uncomfortable side effects, do not abruptly stop taking your medication, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of your condition. Please contact the clinic immediately. Side effects are often temporary as your body adjusts, but we can easily manage them by adjusting your dosage, changing the time you take the pill, or switching you to a different modern medication.

You can book an in-person appointment at Dristi Clinic (Rangeli Road, 100 meters east of Hospital Chowk, Biratnagar) by calling our reception at +977 970-5430012 or by WhatsApp at +977 981-5307306.

Teleconsultation policy: Please note that online or teleconsultations are strictly reserved for existing or old patients only who require follow-up care or prescription management. To ensure the highest standard of psychiatric care and accurate diagnosis, no new patients will be registered for online consultations. All new patients must be evaluated in person at the clinic for their initial visit.

You can visit the emergency department of any hospital near your home. You can also visit the emergency department of Metro Neuro Hospital, Rangeli Road, Biratnagar (Google map link). The hospital can be reached by phone at +977 21-515253.

Please note that my OPD service is not available at this hospital. Emergency and inpatient services are strictly reserved for existing or old patients only.

Dr. Prabhat Chalise (MBBS, MD) is a Consultant Psychiatrist practicing in Biratnagar, Koshi Province, Nepal, and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Purbanchal University School of Medicine. He trained at Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences (Dhulikhel) and the National Academy of Medical Sciences with training at Mental Hospital, Patan.

Dr. Prabhat Chalise holds an MBBS and an MD in Psychiatry and is registered with the Nepal Medical Council (NMC registration no. 16893).

Yes. Dr. Prabhat Chalise is a Consultant Psychiatrist practicing in Biratnagar, Koshi Province, Nepal.

Dristi Clinic is located on Rangeli Road, Biratnagar-9, Koshi Province, Nepal, approximately 100 m east of Hospital Chowk, near Koshi Hospital.

Consultation hours are 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM from Sunday to Thursday, and 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM on Friday. The clinic is closed on Saturday.

His clinical areas include mood disorders, anxiety and stress-related disorders, schizophrenia, addiction and substance use, cognitive and sleep disorders, personality disorders, and psychological and sexual disorders.

Dristi Clinic can be reached by phone at +977 970-5430012. See the contact page for details.

Teleconsultation is available for existing and old patients for follow-up and prescription purposes. New patients are evaluated in person at the clinic.

Dr. Chalise holds consultations at BP Medico in Itahari, Koshi Province, every Friday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Dr. Chalise holds consultations at Damak Pharmacy in Damak, Koshi Province, every Saturday, except the third Saturday of the Nepali month.

Dr. Prabhat Chalise is a Lifetime Member of the Psychiatrists' Association of Nepal (PAN), where he served as Joint Secretary (2023–2025) and Executive Member (2021–2023). He is the Founder President of the Early Career Psychiatrists' Network of Nepal (ECPN) and a Lifetime Member of the Nepal Medical Association (NMA).

Dr. Prabhat Chalise is a co-author of two 2026 publications in the Journal of Psychiatrists' Association of Nepal: “Empowering Leaders: Transformational Leadership Training in Nepal” and “Evaluation of sleep quality in adults with major depressive disorder.”