Best Psychology & Psychiatry Clinics in Metro Manila [2026]

Quick Answer: Psychiatrist consultation in Metro Manila costs ₱1,500-4,000 for an initial visit and ₱1,500-3,000 for follow-ups. Psychologist therapy sessions run ₱1,500-3,500 per hour. Top-rated mental health clinics include St. Luke's Mind and Brain Center, PsychConsult Inc., iPsych, and In Touch Community Services. Online therapy platforms like MindNation and Empath offer sessions starting at ₱1,000-2,500. If you are in crisis, call the NCMH Crisis Hotline at 0917-899-8727 (available 24/7, free, and confidential).

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist: What Is the Difference?
• Top 10 Mental Health Clinics in Metro Manila
• Mental Health Services and Costs
• When to See a Mental Health Professional
• What to Expect in Your First Session
• HMO Coverage for Mental Health
• Online Mental Health Resources
• FAQs

Introduction

Mental health awareness in the Philippines has grown significantly in recent years, but seeking professional help can still feel overwhelming. Where do you go? How much does it cost? Will your HMO cover it? These are real questions that hold many Filipinos back from getting the support they need.

The good news is that finding a psychiatrist in Manila or a psychologist in Metro Manila is more accessible than ever. The Philippine Mental Health Act (RA 11036) has strengthened the framework for mental health services, and both in-person clinics and online platforms have expanded rapidly. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or a major life transition, professional help is available and it works.

This guide covers the best psychology and psychiatry clinics in Metro Manila for 2026, including consultation fees, services offered, and how to make the most of your HMO coverage. You can also browse all mental health clinics in Metro Manila on ClinicFinderPH.

Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist: What Is the Difference?

Before choosing a provider, it helps to understand the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist. Both are mental health professionals, but they have different training, approaches, and capabilities.

When do you need both? Many patients benefit from seeing both a psychiatrist (for medication) and a psychologist (for therapy). This combined approach is often recommended for moderate to severe depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Your provider will recommend the best treatment plan for your situation.

Not sure where to start? A psychologist is a good first step for most people. If medication is needed, they will refer you to a psychiatrist. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, thoughts of self-harm, or a crisis, seeing a psychiatrist first is the better option.

Top 10 Mental Health Clinics in Metro Manila

1. St. Luke's Medical Center - Department of Psychiatry

• Location: BGC, Taguig / Cathedral Heights, Quezon City
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-4,000 (initial), ₱1,500-3,000 (follow-up)
• Key Services: General psychiatry, addiction counseling, geriatric psychiatry, mood and anxiety disorder clinic, child and adolescent psychiatry, stress management, consultation-liaison psychiatry
• Online Consultation: Yes (teleconsult available)
• HMOs Accepted: Maxicare, PhilCare, Medicard, Intellicare, Cocolife
• Specializations: Mood disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, geriatric mental health

St. Luke's Department of Psychiatry is one of the most comprehensive psychiatric departments in the country. Their team includes psychiatrists sub-specialized in addiction, geriatric, and child and adolescent psychiatry. The BGC and QC branches both offer full psychiatric services with access to the hospital's broader medical team when needed. This is an excellent choice for patients with complex cases or co-existing medical conditions.

Find psychiatrists at St. Luke's on ClinicFinderPH

2. Makati Medical Center - Department of Neuropsychiatry

• Location: Amorsolo St., Legazpi Village, Makati City
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-3,500 (initial), ₱1,500-3,000 (follow-up)
• Key Services: Outpatient and inpatient psychiatric care, mood and anxiety assessment, neuropsychiatric evaluation, behavioral health for all age groups
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Maxicare, PhilCare, Medicard, Intellicare, Pacific Cross
• Specializations: Mood and anxiety disorders, neuropsychiatry, adult and adolescent behavioral health

Makati Medical Center's neuropsychiatry department provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Their Mood and Anxiety Resource and Referral Center is a notable sub-specialty clinic focused on evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. The Makati location is convenient for professionals working in the CBD.

Find psychiatrists at Makati Medical Center on ClinicFinderPH

3. The Medical City - Department of Psychiatry

• Location: Ortigas Ave., Pasig City
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-3,500 (initial), ₱1,500-2,500 (follow-up)
• Key Services: Inpatient psychiatry (21-bed unit), outpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, child and adolescent psychiatry
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Maxicare, PhilCare, Medicard, Intellicare
• Specializations: Severe psychiatric disorders, crisis management, inpatient psychiatric care

The Medical City operates one of the few private hospital-based inpatient psychiatric units in Metro Manila, with a 21-bed facility for patients who need supervised care. Their team covers a broad range of psychiatric subspecialties. This is a strong option for patients with severe psychiatric conditions who may require hospitalization or intensive outpatient monitoring.

Find psychiatrists at The Medical City on ClinicFinderPH

4. iPsych Inc.

• Location: Makati City (physical clinic) + nationwide teleconsult
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-3,500 (psychiatry), ₱1,500-3,000 (psychology)
• Key Services: Psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy, psychological assessment, life coaching, counseling, teleconsultation
• Online Consultation: Yes (in-clinic and teleconsult)
• HMOs Accepted: Select HMOs (verify directly)
• Specializations: Depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, relationship issues

iPsych is a private mental health clinic with a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, certified counselors, and life coaches. They offer both in-person sessions at their Makati clinic and teleconsultation for patients anywhere in the Philippines. Their straightforward pricing and easy online booking make them a practical choice for first-time patients. iPsych is a good starting point if you are not sure whether you need a psychiatrist or psychologist, as their team can guide you to the right provider.

Find iPsych on ClinicFinderPH

5. PsychConsult Inc.

• Location: Pasig City / Multiple locations in Metro Manila
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-3,500 per session
• Key Services: Psychotherapy (CBT, DBT, ACT), psychological assessment, child and adolescent therapy, family therapy, organizational psychology services
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Select HMOs (verify directly)
• Specializations: Evidence-based psychotherapy, child/adolescent psychology, organizational wellness

PsychConsult is one of the pioneering psychological firms in the Philippines. Their team consists entirely of licensed psychologists trained in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). They work with children, adolescents, and adults across a wide range of concerns. If you are specifically looking for structured, research-backed therapy rather than medication, PsychConsult is one of the best options in Metro Manila.

Browse psychology clinics on ClinicFinderPH

6. In Touch Community Services

• Location: Jupiter St., Makati City
• Consultation Fee: ₱1,500-3,000 per session
• Key Services: Individual therapy, group therapy, family and couples counseling, grief counseling, pre-marital counseling, psychological assessment, workshops and seminars
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Select HMOs
• Specializations: Relationship and family therapy, grief and loss, life transitions, faith-based counseling

In Touch Community Services has been providing mental health support in Makati for years, with a focus on community-based care. They offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy at rates that are moderate compared to hospital-based clinics. Their counselors are experienced in relationship issues, grief, and life transitions. The warm, community-oriented approach makes this a comfortable option for people who might feel intimidated by a hospital setting.

Find In Touch Community Services on ClinicFinderPH

7. Better Steps Psychology

• Location: Makati City
• Consultation Fee: ₱2,000-3,500 per session
• Key Services: Individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, psychological assessment (IQ, ADHD, personality), career counseling, stress management
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Verify directly
• Specializations: Anxiety, depression, ADHD assessment, relationship issues, career transitions

Better Steps Psychology is a private practice in Makati staffed by licensed clinical psychologists. They offer structured therapeutic approaches for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship difficulties. Their psychological assessment services are useful for individuals who need formal evaluation for ADHD, learning disabilities, or personality profiling. Pricing is mid-range for a Makati-based private practice.

Browse psychology clinics in Makati on ClinicFinderPH

8. Lifechoices Psychotherapy Center

• Location: Multiple locations in Metro Manila
• Consultation Fee: ₱1,500-3,000 per session
• Key Services: Individual therapy, couples and family therapy, group therapy, corporate wellness programs, psychological first aid
• Online Consultation: Yes
• HMOs Accepted: Select HMOs
• Specializations: Anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship counseling, workplace stress

Lifechoices Psychotherapy Center provides accessible mental health services with multiple locations across Metro Manila. Their team of licensed psychologists and psychotherapists offers a range of therapeutic modalities suited to different client needs. Lifechoices is a practical option for patients who want consistent therapy at moderate rates without the premium pricing of hospital-based departments.

Find Lifechoices on ClinicFinderPH

9. National Center for Mental Health (NCMH)

• Location: Nueve de Pebrero St., Mandaluyong City
• Consultation Fee: Free to minimal (government rates)
• Key Services: Outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, E-Konsultasyon (free online psychiatric consultation), psychological first aid, rehabilitation programs
• Online Consultation: Yes (E-Konsultasyon program)
• HMOs Accepted: PhilHealth
• Specializations: All psychiatric conditions, crisis intervention, substance abuse, severe mental illness

The NCMH is the Philippines' primary government facility for mental health. It offers free to minimal-cost psychiatric consultations, making it the most accessible option for patients who cannot afford private care. Their E-Konsultasyon program provides free online psychiatric sessions. Wait times can be long due to high patient volume, so plan accordingly. The NCMH also operates the 24/7 Crisis Hotline at 0917-899-8727 for anyone experiencing a mental health emergency.

Learn more about government mental health services on ClinicFinderPH

10. Philippine General Hospital (PGH) - Department of Psychiatry

• Location: Taft Ave., Ermita, Manila
• Consultation Fee: Free (government hospital)
• Key Services: 24/7 psychiatric consultation, outpatient psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, psychological assessments, training and residency programs
• Online Consultation: Limited
• HMOs Accepted: PhilHealth
• Specializations: General psychiatry, crisis intervention, forensic psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry

PGH is the country's top government hospital and provides free psychiatric consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a major training institution, PGH has a large team of psychiatry residents supervised by senior consultants. The trade-off for free services is long wait times, as the hospital serves a high volume of patients daily. If cost is a major concern, PGH remains one of the most reliable options in Manila for comprehensive psychiatric care.

Find government mental health clinics on ClinicFinderPH

Need more options? Browse all mental health clinics in Metro Manila on ClinicFinderPH to compare services, fees, and locations.

Mental Health Services and Costs

Here is a breakdown of common mental health services and their typical costs in Metro Manila for 2026:

What affects cost? Consultation fees depend on the provider's experience, hospital affiliation, location, and the length of the session. Hospital-based psychiatrists in BGC and Makati generally charge on the higher end. Private practice psychologists and online platforms tend to be more affordable than hospital departments.

How to reduce costs: If budget is a concern, consider government hospitals (NCMH, PGH) for free consultations, online therapy platforms for lower session rates, and check your HMO coverage before booking. PhilHealth also now covers outpatient mental health services worth up to ₱9,000 per year at accredited facilities.

When to See a Mental Health Professional

Many people wait until a crisis to seek help, but early intervention leads to better outcomes. Consider seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness that lasts more than two weeks and does not improve
• Excessive worry or anxiety that interferes with daily activities, work, or relationships
• Changes in sleep patterns -- sleeping too much, too little, or difficulty falling/staying asleep
• Changes in appetite or weight -- significant gain or loss without intentional dieting
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions at work or school
• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
• Irritability or anger that feels out of proportion to the situation
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide -- seek help immediately by calling the NCMH Crisis Hotline at 0917-899-8727
• Increased use of alcohol or substances to cope with stress or emotions
• Major life transitions such as grief, divorce, job loss, or relocation that feel overwhelming

You do not need to be in a crisis to seek professional help. Therapy is also valuable for personal growth, improving relationships, managing work stress, and building healthier coping strategies. Think of mental health care the same way you think of a medical check-up -- prevention and early intervention are always better than waiting for things to get worse.

What to Expect in Your First Session

Walking into your first therapy or psychiatry appointment can feel nerve-wracking. Here is what typically happens so you can feel more prepared:

1. Intake and assessment. Your provider will ask about your current concerns, medical history, family mental health history, and daily functioning. Be as honest as you can -- everything you share is confidential.

2. Getting to know your situation. Expect questions about your sleep, appetite, mood, energy levels, relationships, and work or school performance. These questions help the provider build a full picture.

3. Confidentiality discussion. Your therapist or psychiatrist will explain the limits of confidentiality. In general, everything you share is private unless there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others.

4. Initial impression and plan. By the end of the first session, your provider will share an initial impression and suggest a treatment plan. This may include regular therapy sessions, medication (if seeing a psychiatrist), lifestyle changes, or referral to another specialist.

5. Scheduling follow-ups. Most therapists recommend weekly or bi-weekly sessions initially. Your provider will work with you on a schedule that fits your needs and budget.

Important: It is normal for the first session to feel mostly like an interview. The real therapeutic work usually starts from the second session onward. Also, finding the right therapist is personal. If you do not feel comfortable after a few sessions, it is completely acceptable to try a different provider.

HMO Coverage for Mental Health

Mental health coverage among Philippine HMOs has improved, though it remains more limited than coverage for physical health conditions. Here is what to know:

Which HMOs cover mental health?

• Maxicare was the first Philippine HMO to offer a Specialized Care Program for Mental Health, covering psychiatrist consultations and teleconsult access through their Primary Care Centers. Coverage limits vary by plan.
• PhilCare offers Mind Care Plus, a dedicated mental health plan covering one teleconsultation with a psychiatrist, three mental health assessments, and five chat-based support sessions per year.
• Intellicare offers limited mental health coverage in select corporate plans. Coverage varies -- check your specific plan details.
• MediCard generally excludes psychiatric and psychological conditions from standard plans, though corporate plans may have add-on mental health benefits.

How to check your coverage:

1. Call your HMO's customer service hotline and ask specifically about mental health or psychiatric coverage.
2. Request a copy of your plan's benefits list (Table of Benefits).
3. Confirm which clinics and providers are accredited for mental health services under your plan.
4. Ask about session limits, annual caps, and whether pre-authorization is needed.

PhilHealth mental health benefit: Under PhilHealth Circular 2023-0018, members can avail of outpatient mental health services worth up to ₱9,000 per year, covering screening, diagnostics, 12 follow-up visits, psychoeducation, and essential medicines at accredited facilities.

Online Mental Health Resources

For Filipinos who prefer remote sessions or do not have easy access to in-person clinics, several platforms provide quality mental health services online:

• MindNation -- 24/7 online therapy sessions with psychologists and WellBeing Coaches via their app. Offers individual therapy, coaching, webinars, and corporate wellness programs. Available nationwide.
• Empath -- Online platform offering wellness consultations, psychotherapy, psychiatric consultations, and psychological assessments via video call. Based in Metro Manila with nationwide teleconsult reach.
• Mind You -- Digital mental health platform providing online therapy and psychiatric services for individuals and corporate partners.
• Doctor Anywhere / KonsultaMD -- General telehealth platforms that include mental health consultations.

Crisis hotlines (free, 24/7):

These hotlines provide free, confidential crisis intervention and counseling for depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, domestic violence, grief, and other mental health emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a psychiatrist consultation cost in Manila?

An initial psychiatrist consultation in Metro Manila typically costs ₱1,500-4,000, depending on the provider and facility. Follow-up visits are usually ₱1,500-3,000. Government hospitals like the NCMH and PGH offer free to minimal-cost consultations. Online psychiatry sessions range from ₱1,500-3,000. Hospital-based psychiatrists in premium locations (BGC, Makati) tend to charge at the higher end of the range.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?

No, you do not need a referral to see a psychiatrist in the Philippines. You can book directly with any psychiatrist or psychiatric clinic. However, if you are using an HMO, your plan may require a referral from a primary care physician or pre-authorization before your visit. Check with your HMO first to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Does HMO cover psychiatrist visits?

Coverage varies by provider and plan. Maxicare offers a specialized mental health care program, PhilCare has a dedicated Mind Care Plus plan, and some corporate plans with Intellicare include mental health benefits. MediCard generally excludes psychiatric conditions from standard plans. Always confirm your specific coverage before booking. PhilHealth also covers outpatient mental health services worth up to ₱9,000 per year at accredited facilities.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who can prescribe medication and typically focuses on the biological aspects of mental health. A psychologist holds a master's or doctoral degree in psychology and provides talk therapy (psychotherapy), psychological assessments, and behavioral interventions. Many patients benefit from seeing both -- a psychiatrist for medication and a psychologist for therapy. If you are unsure where to start, a psychologist is a good first step for most concerns.

Is online therapy effective?

Research consistently shows that online therapy (teletherapy) is effective for many conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship issues. The key factor is the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the medium of delivery. Online therapy offers the added benefits of convenience, accessibility for those outside Metro Manila, and often lower cost. It may be less suitable for severe psychiatric conditions requiring in-person assessment or medication monitoring, but for most people, it is a legitimate and effective option.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential under Philippine law and the Mental Health Act (RA 11036). Your therapist or psychiatrist cannot share what you discuss in sessions with anyone without your written consent. The only exceptions are situations involving imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, court orders, or suspected abuse of a minor. Your provider will explain confidentiality rules during your first session.

How many therapy sessions will I need?

This depends on your specific situation and goals. Some people see improvement in 6-8 sessions for focused issues like work stress or adjustment difficulties. Conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and trauma typically require 12-20+ sessions. Chronic or complex conditions may benefit from longer-term therapy. Your therapist will discuss a treatment plan and regularly review progress with you. There is no fixed number that applies to everyone.

What if I cannot afford therapy?

Several options can help make mental health care more accessible:

• Government hospitals: NCMH and PGH offer free psychiatric consultations.
• NCMH E-Konsultasyon: Free online psychiatric sessions.
• PhilHealth: Covers up to ₱9,000/year in outpatient mental health services at accredited facilities.
• Sliding scale clinics: Some private practitioners and community clinics offer reduced rates based on income.
• Online platforms: Tend to cost less than in-person sessions, with some starting at ₱1,000 per session.
• Crisis hotlines: Free 24/7 counseling at 0917-899-8727 (NCMH).
• Community support groups: Free peer support is available through organizations like MentalHealthPH.

Cost should not prevent you from getting help. Start with what is available to you and work up from there.

Conclusion

Finding the right psychiatrist or psychologist in Manila does not have to be complicated. Metro Manila has a growing number of mental health clinics, from hospital-based psychiatric departments with full medical teams to private practices and online platforms that offer affordable, convenient sessions. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or simply want to take better care of your mental well-being, professional support is available and within reach.

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness -- it is one of the most practical decisions you can make for your health. Mental health affects everything from your work performance to your relationships and physical well-being. Under the Philippine Mental Health Act (RA 11036), access to mental health services is your right.

If you are in crisis, call the NCMH Crisis Hotline now at 0917-899-8727 (free, confidential, 24/7).

Ready to find a mental health professional? Search for psychiatrists and psychologists in Metro Manila on ClinicFinderPH to compare clinics, consultation fees, services, and locations near you.