Dr. Stephanie Lynn Bouskill – Psychiatrist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Stephanie Lynn Bouskill is a dedicated Psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in adults, and may see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a mental health clinic or hospital department in Hamilton, ON, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and ethical care. Dr. Bouskill provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for a variety of conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. She is committed to supporting her patients’ mental health journey with compassion and professionalism, fostering a safe and confidential environment. The practice is dedicated to delivering respectful, patient-centered care, where individuals can feel comfortable exploring their concerns and working towards recovery and well-being.

Dr. Bouskill earned her Medical Degree from the University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine in Australia. She has accumulated over six years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 2018, developing a deep expertise in various aspects of mental health treatment. Recognized as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Psychiatry, she maintains her certification through ongoing professional development and adherence to the CPSO’s rigorous standards. Her training and experience enable her to offer evidence-based, nuanced care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Bouskill emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. She believes that an effective therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect is fundamental to successful treatment outcomes. Her clinical approach integrates the latest evidence-based practices with a compassionate understanding of each individual’s circumstances. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to providing accessible and personalized mental health care to residents of Hamilton and the surrounding communities, always striving to foster a supportive environment that promotes healing and resilience.

Dr. Stephanie Bouskill provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Alcohol Use Disorder: A chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
• Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia): Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden periods of intense fear) and persistent concern about having additional attacks or their consequences.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Stephanie Bouskill for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• Medication Management for ADHD in Adults & Children/Adolescents: Prescription and monitoring of stimulant and non-stimulant medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder across the lifespan.
• Treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) with Medication: Pharmacological management of major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar I & II disorder, and cyclothymia, utilizing evidence-based medication strategies.
• Treatment of Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) with Antipsychotics: Management of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders using first and second-generation antipsychotic medications, including long-acting injectables where appropriate.
• Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment & Diagnostic Evaluation: In-depth clinical interview to assess mental health status, including review of psychiatric and medical history, family history, psychosocial factors, symptom patterns, and formulation of a multiaxial diagnosis according to DSM/ICD criteria.
• Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity/Competency Evaluation - specific contexts): Specialized evaluations to determine an individual's mental capacity to make informed decisions regarding treatment, finances, or other legal matters, often in forensic or geriatric settings.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Bouskill for care relevant to your specific mental health needs.

All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Bouskill practices within a welcoming mental health clinic located in Hamilton's Corktown, Stinson neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently near Battlefield House Museum & Park National Historic Site (Stoney Creek) and Eastgate Square, making it accessible for residents in the area. Public transit options include the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), providing easy access for patients traveling from various parts of the city. The practice location is wheelchair accessible and designed to offer a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Ample parking is available with metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring convenience for those arriving by car. The setting fosters a discreet and inviting atmosphere, emphasizing confidentiality and personalized care for every individual seeking mental health support.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Bouskill, a Psychiatrist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Bouskill are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Coverage for psychotherapy services provided by a psychiatrist can vary; some provinces cover it, while others may have limitations or it may be part of hospital-based programs. Specific medications may also require special authorization or be subject to formulary restrictions. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for therapy or any specialized treatments with Bouskill's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Bouskill, a Psychiatrist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another medical doctor (e.g., a pediatrician for child psychiatry, or an ER physician for urgent assessment) is almost always required to see a Psychiatrist such as Bouskill for services covered by the provincial health plan. Mental health conditions often benefit from initial assessment by a primary care provider who can determine the need for specialist psychiatric care. The referral ensures coordinated care, appropriate triaging, and transfer of relevant medical history.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Bouskill?

For your first psychiatric appointment with Bouskill, it's helpful to gather some information beforehand. Try to make a list of your main concerns, symptoms (including when they started, how often they occur, and their intensity), and any significant life events or stressors. Bring a list of all current medications (psychiatric and non-psychiatric), including dosages, as well as any past psychiatric medications you've tried and your experience with them. Information about your family history of mental health conditions can also be very useful. Be prepared to discuss your personal history, social situation, and coping strategies. Writing down any questions you have for Bouskill can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.

What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Bouskill?

It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Bouskill will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Bouskill or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Bouskill, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Bouskill can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.

What does a Psychiatrist like Bouskill specialize in?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed specialized training in psychiatry, which is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication. She is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Bouskill is trained to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems and can provide a range of treatments including psychotherapy, medications, and sometimes other interventions like ECT or rTMS.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Bouskill and her team is kept private and protected by law and professional ethics. This means your information will not be disclosed to anyone without your explicit consent, except in very specific situations where there is a legal obligation or an immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or others (e.g., imminent risk of suicide or homicide, child abuse, or a court order). Dr. Bouskill will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Bouskill?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Bouskill is typically considered when mental health symptoms are severe, persistent, complex, or not responding adequately to initial treatments provided by a family doctor or therapist. This can include: thoughts of suicide or self-harm; severe depression or mania; psychosis (hallucinations, delusions); debilitating anxiety or panic attacks; complex PTSD; severe OCD; suspected bipolar disorder or schizophrenia; treatment-resistant depression; or when medication management by a specialist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.

50 Charlton Ave E
Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6

Phone: (905) 798-5079

The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.

Dr. Bouskill is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Bouskill for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Bouskill-Stephanie-Lynn/0288531-101614