Best Psychiatrist in Dhaka: Enlightened Hospital

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“Do you tell everyone you’re fine, while secretly falling apart? Can’t sleep at night, yet exhausted all day? Do you feel like you’re no longer yourself?”
You’re not alone.

Mental health struggles are not a hidden shame—they are real conditions that deserve proper medical attention, just like any physical illness. Depression, anxiety, stress, and chronic emotional fatigue are no longer untouchable topics—they are treatable, manageable, and absolutely valid.

Feeling better, living well, and rediscovering yourself—these aren’t just distant dreams anymore. With the right psychiatric care, they can become your reality, in shaa Allah.

What Does a Psychiatrist Do?

A psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor (MBBS + specialist training) who diagnoses and treats disruptions in mood, behavior, emotion, or cognitive functioning.

They follow internationally recognized frameworks such as ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases by WHO) and DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders by the American Psychiatric Association) to identify mental health conditions.

A psychiatrist doesn’t rely solely on conversation—they may also recommend medication, psychotherapy, or long-term counseling as part of a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist – What’s the Difference?

We often confuse the two, assuming psychiatrists and psychologists do the same job. In reality, their training and scope of practice differ significantly.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental illnesses and prescribe medication.

A psychologist, on the other hand, typically completes a university track in psychology (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or MPhil) and specializes in therapy, behavioral interventions, and mental health awareness—but does not prescribe medication.

So how do you choose?
If your condition might require medical management or diagnosis, see a psychiatrist.
If you’re seeking emotional support, counseling, or therapy, a psychologist can guide you through the healing process.

Let’s break it down in a simple comparison table:

Aspect	Psychiatrist	Psychologist / Clinical Psychologist
Qualification	MBBS + FCPS/MD in Psychiatry	B.S. in Psychology + M.S. and M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology
Treatment Methods	Medication, therapy, and medical counseling	Only therapy and counseling
Diagnosis	Diagnoses mental illness and can prescribe psychiatric medications	Uses conversation, psychological tests/scales for mental health assessment
Best Suited For	Severe mental disorders, suicide risk, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder	Stress, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and mild to moderate disorders
Referral Practice	May refer to psychologist when therapy is needed	Refers to psychiatrist for severe or high-risk cases

In many cases, psychiatrists and psychologists work collaboratively to ensure comprehensive care.

Common Mental Health Conditions Treated by Psychiatrists:

• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Sleep Disorders
• Addiction and Substance Abuse

If you experience persistent symptoms such as mood swings, excessive anxiety, hallucinations, or difficulty functioning in daily life, consulting a psychiatrist can provide a clear diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

When Should You See a Psychiatrist?

Mental health struggles often begin quietly—disturbed sleep, unexplained sadness, or a constant sense of dread. But when these symptoms begin to interfere with your daily life, relationships, or ability to function, it’s time to seek professional help. A psychiatrist is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental illnesses—both medically and through therapeutic support.

Here’s when you should consider consulting a psychiatrist:

Anxiety & Constant Worry

Symptom: You feel nervous, restless, or tense most days. You may experience panic attacks, racing thoughts, or constant fear without a clear cause.
Action: If this anxiety disrupts your work, studies, or sleep, a psychiatrist can help with a personalized treatment plan—often combining therapy with medication.
Seen in: Teenagers under exam stress, young professionals, postpartum mothers.

Chronic Sleep Issues

Symptom: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling exhausted even after 8 hours in bed.
Action: Persistent insomnia or hypersomnia (oversleeping) can be signs of underlying depression, anxiety, or a sleep disorder. A psychiatrist can assess and treat the root cause.
Common in: Elderly individuals, shift workers, trauma survivors.

Trauma & Emotional Numbness

Symptom: Flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional detachment after a disturbing event (e.g., accident, abuse, loss).
Action: These can be signs of PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Early psychiatric support improves long-term recovery.
Often seen in: Survivors of abuse, front-line workers, accident victims.

Mood Swings or Unstable Emotions

Symptom: Rapid mood changes, from extreme highs to deep lows. You may feel elated one day and severely depressed the next.
Action: These could signal bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, or hormonal mood instability. A psychiatrist will assess patterns and provide stabilizing treatment.
Common in: Young adults, women with hormonal changes, people with family history.

Hallucinations or Delusional Thinking

Symptom: Hearing voices, seeing things that aren’t there, or believing things that others find irrational.
Action: These may be symptoms of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or severe depression. Early psychiatric intervention is crucial.
Affects: Young males (late teens to early 30s) most commonly.

Addiction or Dependency Issues

Symptom: You feel you can’t stop using substances like alcohol, sleeping pills, or narcotics—despite negative consequences.
Action: Addiction is a treatable brain condition. Psychiatrists offer both detox management and long-term relapse prevention strategies.
Seen in: Adolescents, corporate professionals, recovering trauma survivors.

Bottom line:
If your mind feels “off” for more than two weeks, or if others express concern about your behavior, don’t ignore it. Mental health is as real and urgent as physical health. A psychiatrist at Enlightened Hospital can help you understand what’s happening and guide you toward healing—with empathy, expertise, and dignity

Meet Our Psychiatrists at Enlightened Hospital

The psychiatrists at Enlightened Hospital are distinguished specialists from the National Institute of Mental Health, Dhaka—the leading mental health institution in Bangladesh.
With an average of 10 to 15 years of professional experience, they bring unmatched clinical expertise, international training, and a passion for mental health care. Beyond one-on-one treatment, they are actively engaged in research, education, and advancing therapeutic practices for the future of psychiatry.

Professor Dr. Md. Tariqul Alam (Sumon)

Qualifications: MBBS, MCPS (Psychiatry), FCPS (Psychiatry), FWHO (NIMHANS), FWPA (China), FWAPR (Italy)
Designation: Professor, Department of Psychiatry
Special Expertise:

• Complex and chronic depression
• Bipolar mood disorder
• Schizophrenia and behavioral disorders

With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Alam is recognized as one of the country’s top psychiatrists in handling severe mental illnesses with scientific precision.

Dr. Farzana Rahman

Qualifications: MBBS, BCS (Health), MD (Psychiatry)
Designation: Associate Professor, Psychiatry
Special Expertise:

• Perinatal and postpartum depression
• Women’s mental health issues
• Panic and anxiety disorders

Dr. Farzana has been actively engaged in mental health care and academic research for over 12 years, with a strong focus on gender-sensitive psychiatry.

Dr. Muntasir Maruf

Qualifications: MBBS, BCS (Health), FCPS (Psychiatry)
Designation: Associate Professor, Psychiatry
Special Expertise:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Adolescent mental health
• Personality disorders

Dr. Maruf brings 11 years of hands-on experience in OCD treatment and youth mental wellness, making him a preferred choice for complex behavioral cases.

Dr. Nur Ahmed Giash Uddin (Shadi)

Qualifications: MBBS (DMC), BCS (Health), MD (Psychiatry)
Designation: Assistant Professor, Psychiatry
Special Expertise:

• Headache and psychosomatic disorders
• Sexual health and psychological impact
• Generalized anxiety and worry disorders

With 10 years of diverse clinical exposure, Dr. Nur Ahmed is skilled in managing the intersection of physical symptoms and mental health conditions.

Dr. Tayeb Ibn Jahangir

Qualifications: MBBS (DMC), BCS (Health), MD (Psychiatry)
Designation: Assistant Professor, Psychiatry
Special Expertise:

• PTSD and trauma-related disorders
• Stress-induced conditions
• Somatic symptom disorders

Dr. Tayeb is widely appreciated for his 11 years of clinical excellence in trauma recovery and treating stress-linked psychological challenges.

Why This Team Stands Apart

• All psychiatrists are affiliated with the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Dhaka
• Each has 10+ years of hands-on experience in mental health practice
• Skilled in developing condition-specific therapy plans
• Specialized care available for women, adolescents, and complex psychiatric disorders
• Many team members hold international training and fellowships from India, China, and Europe

Specialized Psychiatric Services We Offer

Not all mental illnesses are visible—but their impact can be life-altering.
At Enlightened Hospital, our team of experienced psychiatrists dives beneath the surface to uncover the root cause and build a path toward recovery. Here are the key mental health conditions we specialize in treating:

Depression

When everything feels meaningless, joy disappears, and daily life becomes a burden—this may not be just sadness, but clinical depression.
Through CBT and medication, most patients experience substantial improvement.

Anxiety Disorders

Excessive worry, panic, and restlessness that disrupt your routine may signal an anxiety disorder.
We offer therapeutic techniques and relaxation training proven to be effective.

Bipolar Mood Disorder (BMD)

Extreme mood swings—ranging from euphoric highs to crushing lows—define bipolar disorder.
With medication and consistent follow-up, mood stabilization is achievable.

Schizophrenia

Hallucinations, delusions, and detachment from reality are common features.
Though a serious condition, with structured treatment and family support, recovery is possible.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Compulsions like repeated handwashing or obsessive thoughts are signs of OCD.
We use ERP-based CBT and specific medications for best outcomes.

Personality Disorders

If patterns of thought, emotion, or behavior disrupt personal, social, or work life over time, it may indicate a personality disorder.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has shown great success here.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

When past trauma continues to intrude through flashbacks, nightmares, or fear, it’s time to address it.
Our trauma-focused therapies offer gradual, sustainable relief.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and lack of focus—especially in children—may point to ADHD.
Early diagnosis and therapy can greatly improve outcomes.

Sleep Disorders

Insomnia, nightmares, or excessive sleep can impair your energy, mood, and memory.
With proper diagnosis and therapy, restful sleep becomes a reality again.

Addiction

Dependency on substances gradually dismantles a person’s health, relationships, and purpose.
We offer medical detox, motivational counseling, and family-based rehabilitation.

Psychiatric care today is scientific, structured, and highly personalized. At Enlightened Hospital, every patient receives a customized treatment plan based on their individual condition and needs.

Our Core Treatment Approaches:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
  Restructures thought patterns and behaviors to manage depression, anxiety, OCD, and phobias.
• Medications:
  Psychiatric medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers are used where necessary for conditions like mood disorders, insomnia, and schizophrenia.
• Family Therapy:
  Especially effective in cases of marital conflict, adolescent behavioral issues, and addiction recovery—where family involvement is key.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT):
  Carefully administered in severe depression cases when medications are ineffective—always under strict medical supervision.
• Counseling & Supportive Therapy:
  For personal crises, low self-esteem, trauma, or relationship conflicts—patients receive one-on-one sessions for emotional and mental support.

Treatment Approaches by Condition & Average Number of Visits

At Enlightened Hospital, each mental health condition is addressed through evidence-based treatment methods tailored to the individual. Below is a breakdown of common disorders, associated treatment modalities, and the average number of initial visits required:

Mental Health Condition	Primary Treatment Approach	Average Number of Sessions (Initial Phase)
Depression	CBT + Antidepressants	6–8 sessions
Anxiety Disorders	CBT + Relaxation Therapy	5–7 sessions
Bipolar Disorder	Mood Stabilizers + Psychoeducation	10+ visits (long-term)
Schizophrenia	Antipsychotics + Family Therapy	12+ visits including regular follow-ups
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)	CBT (ERP Model) + Medication	8–10 sessions
PTSD / Trauma	Trauma-Focused CBT + Supportive Counselling	7–9 sessions
Substance Use/Addiction	Detox + Motivational Counselling + Family Involvement	15+ sessions

Please note: Treatment duration may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to therapy.

How Treatment Begins at Enlightened Hospital

Mental health care at Enlightened follows a structured, step-by-step process rooted in international best practices:

1. Initial Assessment (First Visit):
A psychiatrist or psychologist listens carefully to your concerns. Standardized psychological tests or rating scales may be used for deeper insight.

2. Diagnosis:
Based on ICD-11 (WHO) or DSM-5 (APA), the clinician makes a formal diagnosis aligned with global psychiatric criteria.

3. Treatment Planning:
Depending on the diagnosis, a personalized plan is developed. This may include medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and, if needed, family involvement.

4. Follow-Up & Review:
Each visit includes progress assessment and necessary updates to the treatment plan to ensure steady improvement.

Why Choose Enlightened Hospital?

• A collaborative team of experienced psychiatrists and clinical psychologists
• Combined psychiatric and psychotherapeutic treatment plans
• Dedicated female therapists and adolescent specialists
• Evidence-based care aligned with international standards
• Complete confidentiality and ethical practice assured

Specialized Psychiatric Care for Women & Children

For Women

Specialist:
Assistant Professor Dr. Farzana Rahman – With over a decade of expertise, she provides gender-sensitive care and therapeutic support tailored to women.

For Children & Adolescents

Mental health issues in children and teens often hide behind behavioral or academic struggles. At Enlightened, we create a friendly, child-centered environment using play, art, and storytelling to help young minds express themselves.

We specialize in:

ADHD (attention & hyperactivity)

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Separation Anxiety

School bullying & trauma

Emotional dysregulation & behavioral issues

Specialist:
Dr. Muntasir Maruf – He brings deep experience in working with teens and young adults on OCD, personality, and behavioral disorders.

Supportive Services for Children:

Play Therapy

Family Counseling

Parental Guidance Sessions

Supporting women and children’s mental health today means building a healthier society tomorrow. At Enlightened Hospital, we’re ready to walk that journey with you.

Psychiatric Consultation Fee & Payment Info

At Enlightened Hospital, we understand each patient’s socioeconomic background, time constraints, and needs. Our affordable and transparent fee structure is designed to ensure high-quality mental health care for everyone.

Service Type	Duration	Fee (BDT)
Initial Psychiatrist Consultation	30–45 minutes	1,000 – 1,500
Follow-up Consultation	15–20 minutes	700 – 1,000
Counseling / Psychotherapy Session	45–60 minutes	1,500 – 2,000
Family Therapy	60–75 minutes	2,000 – 2,500
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Session	45–60 minutes	1,200 – 1,800
Addiction Initial Assessment	30 minutes	1,000
Detox/Rehabilitation Packages	Duration varies	Package-based

Payment Methods

• Bkash (Personal & Merchant accounts accepted)
• Nagad / Cash / Bank Transfer
• Patients can confirm their appointment by sending advance payment via Bkash.

You may also inquire about discounts on follow-up visits or therapy packages during your first consultation. For detailed information, please contact our helpline or reception desk.

How to Book an Appointment?

Booking an appointment with an experienced psychiatrist at Enlightened Hospital is now quick and hassle-free. You can secure your preferred doctor’s slot in just 2 minutes by following these simple steps:

1. Call Us Directly
   Reach our helpline at +880 1329 800 946
   Available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM with live support.
2. Send a WhatsApp Message
   Share your name, age, type of problem, and preferred time on WhatsApp: +880 1329 800 946
   You will receive a prompt reply.
3. Fill the Online Booking Form
   Visit our website and submit the required details through our contact form. Our team will call you back shortly.
4. Confirm Appointment with Payment
   After sending the fee via Bkash or Nagad to the specified number, your appointment slot and time will be confirmed.

Start your path to recovery today by booking an appointment without delay — patients with scheduled appointments progress faster towards mental wellness.

Visit our Contact Page for more details.

Government vs Private Psychiatric Services

Patients often face a dilemma when seeking mental health treatment in Bangladesh — should they opt for government hospitals or private clinics? The comparative analysis below will help you make an informed decision:

Criteria	Government Services	Private Services	Enlightened Hospital (Balanced Choice)
Waiting Time for Appointment	May take 7 to 30 days or longer	Usually quick but expensive	Appointment within 24 hours, reasonable cost
Privacy	Limited, crowded wards & shared spaces	High-quality, private consultations	Private consultation rooms, women-friendly care
Treatment Approach	Medication-focused, limited counseling	Combination of therapy and medication	Integrated medication, therapy & counseling
Cost	Very low	Relatively high	Moderate cost with quality care
Doctor Experience	Experienced doctors but limited time per patient	More time and attention but costly	Experienced doctors from government medical colleges
Women & Child Services	Minimal separate arrangements	Available but limited venues	Dedicated gender-sensitive care for women & children
Follow-up & Care	Irregular	Reliable	Scheduled follow-up and counseling tracking

Why Choose Enlightened Hospital?

• Experienced doctors like government institutions
• Service quality and timely care like private clinics
• Affordable fees with privacy and compassionate care

Learn more about Enlightened’s Treatment Approach

Real Patient Testimonials & Google Reviews

Battling mental health issues is tough, but with the right doctor and care, life can transform. Here are some brief testimonials from our patients at Enlightened Hospital:

1. Sadia Rahman (Age 35–45)
   “My life had completely stopped due to depression. Since starting treatment with Dr. Farzana Rahman, I have begun seeing life anew. Their care and mental support are exceptional.”
   ★★★★★
2. Rahatul Islam (Age 25–35)
   “Choosing Enlightened Hospital for my OCD treatment was the right decision. Regular therapy and the empathetic doctors helped me return to a normal life. Thank you!”
   ★★★★☆
3. Mamunur Rashid (Age 45–55)
   “After a long struggle with bipolar disorder, I am finally getting proper treatment and guidance here. The family support sessions have been very helpful. Highly recommended.”
   ★★★★★

For countless more reviews and feedback from our patients, visit us on Google:
[Click here]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do psychiatric treatments require medication?
   Yes, in many cases, medication is essential to manage mental health conditions and should be taken as prescribed by a psychiatrist. However, medication alone is not enough—therapy and counseling are equally important parts of treatment.
2. How many visits are typically needed for treatment?
   After the initial consultation, follow-up visits are scheduled based on the patient’s condition and diagnosis, usually every 4 to 6 weeks. The total number of sessions may vary depending on individual progress.
3. Are female psychiatrists available?
   Yes, we have female psychiatrists who provide gender-sensitive care in a safe and comfortable environment specifically for women patients.
4. What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
   A psychiatrist is a medical doctor qualified to prescribe medication for mental illnesses, while a psychologist provides therapy and counseling but does not prescribe medications.
5. How long does bipolar disorder treatment take?
   Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition managed through regular medication and mental health therapy to keep symptoms under control.
6. Is treatment available for all age groups?
   Yes, our expert team offers tailored therapy and treatment for patients of all ages—from children to the elderly—based on their specific needs.
7. How can I book an appointment?
   You can easily book an appointment by phone, WhatsApp, or through the online form on our website for a quick and hassle-free process.
8. How is patient confidentiality maintained?
   All personal and medical information of patients is kept strictly confidential and is never shared with any third party.
9. What role does family play in mental health treatment?
   Family support is crucial for patient recovery. Enlightened Hospital provides family therapy and counseling sessions to strengthen this support system.
10. What are the costs of psychiatric treatment?
    Treatment costs vary depending on the nature of the illness and type of service. Enlightened Hospital ensures affordable and quality care for all patients.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

After this detailed discussion, we hope all your doubts have been cleared — whom to consult, where to go, and how to start are now clear. Mental wellness cannot wait, and you are not alone. So, don’t hesitate to call our hotline or send a WhatsApp message to book your appointment now. Enlightened Hospital’s experienced and compassionate psychiatrists are here to listen, understand, and guide you on the path to recovery.