Psychiatry and psychotherapy
Depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder and trauma, treated with medication, psychotherapy and neuromodulation.
29 specialists · Psychiatrists
01 / 04
- Years of experience
- 28+
- Since 1998
- Specialists and therapists
- 84
- Languages spoken by our doctors
- 10
- Countries our patients come from
- 179+
Find a doctor, condition or treatment
Popular: Depression Anxiety and panic disorders Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Trauma and PTSD Alcohol addiction Drug and substance addiction
Firsts in Türkiye
Where modern brain medicine in Türkiye began
Since 1998 NPİSTANBUL has brought new methods in psychiatry and neurology to Türkiye, several of them for the first time.
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Türkiye’s first brain hospital
Founded in 1998 as Türkiye’s first neuropsychiatric hospital, devoted to psychiatry and neurology.
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First in Türkiye to use TMS for addiction
TMS and deep TMS for alcohol, substance and behavioural addictions, alongside standard care.
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Türkiye’s first pharmacogenetic ID card
Your genetic drug-response profile on one card, so medication can be matched to you.
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First to use COGBAT
The most up-to-date computerised cognitive test battery, first put into practice at NPİSTANBUL.
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Wide-bore 3 Tesla MRI
A scanner found in only a few centres in Türkiye, comfortable even for people with claustrophobia.
Academic standing
A university hospital that represents Türkiye in brain science
NPİSTANBUL is the affiliated hospital of Üsküdar University. Together they take Türkiye’s brain research to the G20 and to international scientific societies.
Affiliated university
Founded in Istanbul in 2011 as Türkiye’s first university dedicated to behavioural sciences and health. NPİSTANBUL is its partner hospital for clinical practice and research, and many of our doctors are on its faculty.
Source: uskudar.edu.trG20 Neuroscience20 (N20)
Türkiye’s only representatives at the G20 Neuroscience20 summit
Each year, before the G20 leaders meet, the Neuroscience20 summit brings research on the brain, the spine and mental health to the G20 agenda. Üsküdar University, with NPİSTANBUL, is the only university from Türkiye taking part.
- 2014 Brisbane
- 2015 Istanbul, as host, ahead of the G20 summit in Antalya
- 2016 Hangzhou
- 2017 Hamburg, as co-organiser
- 2018 Buenos Aires
- 2019 Osaka
- 2020 Riyadh, online
- 2021 Rome
- 2022 Bali, opening remarks by Prof. Nevzat Tarhan
- 2023 New Delhi, Global Neuroscience Leadership award
- 2024 Rio de Janeiro
- 2025 Johannesburg, opening speech by Prof. Nevzat Tarhan
- 2026 Miami, 13 December: Prof. Nevzat Tarhan among the confirmed speakers
Scientific societies
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Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (SBMT)
Prof. Nevzat Tarhan, NPİSTANBUL’s founder, received the SBMT Golden Axon Leadership Award in 2019, the only recipient from Türkiye that year; the award has also gone to Nobel laureate Eric Kandel. In 2021 he was elected chair of SBMT’s MeBrain+ initiative for the Middle East and the Balkans.
Source: uskudar.edu.tr (1) uskudar.edu.tr (2)
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Turkish American Neuropsychiatric Association (TANPA)
Founded in 1981 to bring Turkish and American neuropsychiatrists together, and an affiliate organisation of the American Psychiatric Association. Prof. Nevzat Tarhan is its president.
Source: tanp-a.org
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Society of Therapeutic Brain Mapping, Biological Psychiatry and Neurotechnology
A Turkish scientific society for brain mapping and neurotechnology, presided over by Prof. Nevzat Tarhan, with Üsküdar University professors on its board.
Source: tbhd.org.tr
Centres of excellence
Specialist centres for the brain and mind
Multidisciplinary teams dedicated to one field each, working side by side in one hospital.
NPAMATEM addiction centre
Detox and rehabilitation for alcohol, drugs, gambling and gaming, with family involvement.
Neurology
Memory problems, dementia, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, headache and sleep disorders.
7 specialists · Neurologists
Brain and spine surgery
Tumour and spine surgery planned with neuronavigation and intraoperative imaging.
4 specialists · Neurosurgeons
Child and adolescent centre
Autism, ADHD and developmental conditions, assessed by a dedicated child team.
4 specialists · Child and adolescent psychiatrists
Neuromodulation unit
TMS, deep TMS and TPS: non-invasive brain stimulation alongside standard care.
Psychological tests
Questionnaires you can fill in
Free · your result appears on this page · not a diagnosis
All psychological tests- Low mood, loss of interest Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)
- Periods of unusually high energy or mood Bipolar Disorder Test (Mood Disorder Questionnaire, MDQ)
- Worry, tension or panic Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
- Trouble focusing, as an adult Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1)
- Snoring and daytime sleepiness Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Screening (STOP-Bang)
Why NPİSTANBUL
Türkiye’s first brain hospital
Psychiatrists, neurologists, neurosurgeons and psychologists work side by side, so complex cases are assessed by the right specialists in one place.
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Discretion first
Private rooms, confidential records and a single point of contact for your family.
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Academic specialists
Many of our doctors are faculty members at Üsküdar University.
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Advanced technology
3 Tesla MRI, QEEG, neuromodulation and clinical pharmacogenetics.
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Your language
Coordinators and interpreters in English, Arabic, Russian, French and Turkish; other languages on request.
Technology
Treatments and technology
Neuromodulation, brain imaging and precision diagnostics, used alongside medication and psychotherapy — never instead of a clinical assessment.
Technology
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS / D-TMS)
A non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions, mainly for depression that has not responded to medication.
Technology
Transcranial pulse stimulation (TPS)
Short ultrasound pulses applied to the brain. Offered as an add-on to standard care in selected people with Alzheimer’s disease; the evidence is still limited.
Diagnostics
QEEG brain mapping
Computer analysis of the EEG (brain-wave recording). At NPİSTANBUL it is used alongside the clinical assessment; it does not diagnose psychiatric conditions, and its role in guiding treatment is still being researched.
Diagnostics
Pharmacogenetic testing
A genetic test, run in our clinical pharmacogenetics laboratory, that shows how you are likely to process certain psychiatric medicines.
Diagnostics
Neuropsychological assessment
Standardised tests of memory, attention and thinking skills.
Diagnostics
3 Tesla MRI
High-field magnetic resonance imaging for detailed pictures of the brain and spine.
Therapy
Psychotherapy (CBT, EMDR, schema therapy)
Evidence-based talking therapies, in person during your stay and online after you return home.
Procedure
Neuronavigation-guided surgery
Surgery guided by real-time 3D imaging to reach the target precisely and protect healthy brain tissue.
International patients
Your journey, step by step
Our coordinators stay with you from the first message to follow-up at home.
Before you travel
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1
Inquiry
Send a message by form, WhatsApp or phone. A coordinator who speaks your language replies, usually within one working day.
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2
Medical review
Share your reports securely. A specialist reviews them and, if needed, meets you by video for a pre-assessment.
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3
Treatment plan and estimate
You receive a written plan, the expected length of stay and a cost estimate that lists what is and is not included.
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4
Travel preparation
We provide a visa invitation letter and advise on flights, medication you bring with you and companion arrangements.
In Istanbul
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5
Arrival
We meet you at the airport, take you to your accommodation or ward and introduce your interpreter.
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6
Treatment
A multidisciplinary team treats you. With your consent, your family receives regular updates.
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7
Discharge
You leave with your discharge summary, test results and a fit-to-fly report in English, a medication plan and a relapse-prevention or safety plan.
Back home
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8
Follow-up at home
Online follow-up sessions and contact with your local doctor, with the same coordinator.
Medical team
Your specialists
Psychiatrists, neurologists, neurosurgeons and psychologists, many of them faculty members at Üsküdar University.
Prof. Dr. K. Nevzat Tarhan
Psychiatry
Consulting Physician and Supervisor in All Professional Fields. Speaks Turkish, English, German.
Prof. Dr. A. Oğuz Tanrıdağ
Neurology
Cognitive Neurology. Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Hüsnü Erkmen
Psychiatry
Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Speaks Turkish, English.
Prof. Dr. H. Nesrin Dilbaz
Psychiatry
Alcohol Addiction, Substance Addiction. Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Mustafa Bozbuğa
Neurosurgery
Skull Base Surgery, Neuro-Oncology (Tumour Surgery), Neurovascular Surgery (Aneurysm, AVM). Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Sermin Kesebir
Psychiatry
Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorders), Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. Speaks Turkish, English, Greek.
Prof. Dr. Sultan Tarlacı
Neurology
Neuroscience, Neurophilosophy. Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Gül Eryılmaz
Psychiatry
Psychiatric Disorders and Neuroscientific Approaches, Relationship Science, Addictions. Speaks Turkish, English.
Prof. Dr. Habib Erensoy
Psychiatry
Addiction Psychiatry, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders. Speaks Turkish, English, Persian.
Prof. Dr. Barış Metin
Neurology
Sleep Disorders, Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Dementia. Speaks Turkish, English, Arabic, Russian, Dutch.
Prof. Dr. Nebi Yılmaz
Neurosurgery
Vascular Neurosurgery. Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Akın Akakın
Neurosurgery
Speaks Turkish.
Prof. Dr. Oğuz Tan
Psychiatry
Psychiatry (Mental Health and Disorders). Speaks Turkish, English.
Prof. Dr. Engin Emrem Beştepe
Psychiatry
Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Depression. Speaks Turkish, English.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burcu Polat
Neurology
Headache, Migraine, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Vertigo, Myofascial Pain and Other Pain Syndromes. Speaks Turkish, English.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cahide Yılmaz
Pediatric Neurology
Speaks Turkish.
VR therapy at NPİSTANBUL
Innovation in care
Virtual-reality therapy, guided by specialists
Our psychologists use virtual reality to help patients face fears and triggers step by step, in a safe and controlled setting.
- Exposure therapy for phobias, anxiety and addiction cravings
- Every session planned and supervised by a clinical psychologist
- Used alongside, not instead of, established treatment
What our patients say about us
Excellent
Based on 303 reviews
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I just wanted to say a huge thank you to Evin Kömürcü for looking after me during my operation. She was so kind, friendly and always had a smile on her face, which really helped put me at ease. Nothing was ever too much trouble for her and she was so patient and attentive the whole time. Even though we didn’t speak the same language, she took the time to chat with us using Google Translate, which was such a lovely touch and made us feel really comfortable and cared for.
Sinead Cooke -
I took my dyslexic 13 year old child, along with his mother to NPIstanbul Brain Hospital last May for consultation. Within a period of one week my child was assessed and we got done with what we needed. The services tendered were swift, thorough and satisfying. Dr Mukhtar and his specialist colleagues were exceptionally attentive, empathic and professional during the consultation sessions. The results were remarkable, especially the debriefing session which gave us comfort and direction.
Bello Aminu -
I would recommend Doctor Fatma Duygu if you have a psychiatric condition. She’s an excellent doctor. Professionalism is something that she has and she is also someone who genuinely has empathy for her patients and is interested in helping them.
Abdullah Rajab -
I took my brother to the hospital last week and the way we were treated was so professional and with so much empathy, especially Samar. She made sure we were good and taken care of. Would recommend 100%.
Malik Lawal -
I came from America and received great medical service. I was worried about past concussions and current symptoms, they put me through proper testing and thank god everything came out perfectly fine. Very professional, on time with everything, and very kind. I’ll be receiving my health care from here from now on. Couldn’t recommend it more.
Shqipron Idrizi -
Exceptional care and professionalism from the entire hospital team. Special thanks to Prof. Dr. Gül Eryılmaz for her kindness, professionalism, and genuine care. Special thanks to Ahmed who is very attentive, discreet, and precise in his translation and communication. Truly grateful!
Milena Todorova
Quoted as written on Google.
Comfort and privacy
Designed for recovery
Private rooms and suites with city views, quiet lounges and a garden terrace.
Hospitality
Staying in Istanbul
Practical support so you and your companion can focus on recovery.
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Interpreters
Interpreting in your own language for consultations, therapy sessions and paperwork.
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VIP airport transfer
A private interpreter and a driver with a luxury car meet you at the airport. We arrange your transfers between the airport, your hotel and the hospital.
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Accommodation
Hotel-standard rooms, and suites with a separate room, bathroom and TV for a companion. For outpatient programmes and families, we organise hotel accommodation.
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Companions and family
A companion can stay with you if your doctor agrees (not in intensive care). Secure garden terraces and lounges on the wards are open to patients and companions.
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Faith and personal preferences
All meals are halal and prayer times are respected; the nearest mosque is a few minutes' walk away. You can ask to see a female doctor.
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Visa letter
An official invitation letter for your visa application.
Good to know
Questions families often ask
Clear answers about costs, travel, treatment and privacy. Your coordinator is always there for anything else.
See how it worksWhich mental health conditions are treated at NPİSTANBUL, and are specialized treatments such as treatment-resistant depression therapy and Deep TMS available?
NPİSTANBUL evaluates and treats a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, addiction, ADHD, trauma, and sleep disorders. For patients with treatment-resistant depression who have not responded sufficiently to previous medications or therapy, comprehensive reassessment is performed, offering medication optimization, psychotherapy, Deep TMS, ECT, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, and pharmacogenetic testing. Deep TMS is provided to eligible patients following a clinical evaluation by a psychiatrist.
Can international patients receive treatment at NPİSTANBUL, and is inpatient psychiatric care available?
Yes. NPİSTANBUL offers assessment and treatment services for international patients. The International Patient Team assists with appointment coordination, medical report reviews, treatment planning, and communication throughout the process. Inpatient psychiatric treatment is also available following specialist evaluation for cases requiring intensive assessment, stabilization, medication management, structured therapy, or 24-hour medical support.
How are treatment costs determined, is the first consultation free, and are patient details kept confidential?
Treatment costs depend on the patient's condition, the type and duration of treatment, inpatient or outpatient requirements, and recommended diagnostic tests. A personalized cost estimate is provided after reviewing your medical information. An initial coordination call with the International Patient Team to understand your needs may be provided free of charge; however, specialist consultations may incur a fee, about which you will be clearly informed prior to booking. All patient information, medical records, and treatment details are strictly protected in accordance with privacy regulations and shared only with authorized healthcare professionals involved in your care.
How can I request an evaluation, can medical reports be sent prior to travel, and are online consultations available?
Patients can request an evaluation by filling out the contact form or reaching the International Patient Team via WhatsApp or phone. Sending available medical reports, diagnoses, medication lists, and test results before traveling helps our team match you with the appropriate specialist. Additionally, online psychiatric consultations may be available depending on physician availability, patient location, clinical situation, and relevant medical regulations.
How quickly can treatment begin, and can family members contact the hospital on the patient's behalf?
Appointment availability depends on the specialist's schedule, the patient's clinical needs, and whether care is inpatient or outpatient. In urgent or complex cases, our team reviews the situation to advise on the earliest appropriate date. Family members or caregivers may contact the International Patient Team to request information and help coordinate an evaluation; however, appropriate patient consent may be required for detailed medical discussions or access to confidential records.
Which languages do you speak?
Coordinators and interpreters support English, Arabic, Russian, French and Turkish, and we can arrange other languages on request.
Tell us what is happening. We will help you plan the next step.
A medical review of your reports is free and does not commit you to anything.