Dr. Abdorrahim Dahi – Psychiatrist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Abdorrahim Dahi 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 Richmond Hospital in Vancouver, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. He 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. His practice is committed to maintaining the highest standards of care in accordance with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Dahi strives to offer a compassionate, respectful, and confidential environment where patients feel safe to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Iran and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. His medical education and training include extensive clinical experience and continuous professional development. Dr. Dahi has earned key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to excellence and adherence to Canada's rigorous standards for psychiatric practice.

Dr. Dahi’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and evidence-based treatment approaches. He is dedicated to fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and holistic mental health care. Fluent in English and Persian (Farsi), Dr. Dahi is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population in Vancouver, facilitating a more comfortable and culturally sensitive treatment experience.

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

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• Sleep-Wake Disorders (Insomnia, Hypersomnolence, Parasomnias - when psychiatrically related): Persistent disturbances in sleep patterns or quality that are often comorbid with or exacerbated by psychiatric conditions.
• Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, involving symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
• 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.

Personality Disorders

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.

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

• Neuropsychiatric Evaluation & Cognitive Assessment (Initial Screening/Referral): Initial assessment of cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms, with referral for detailed neuropsychological testing if indicated, to differentiate psychiatric from neurological conditions.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
• 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.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and OCD.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Dahi 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Richmond Hospital is situated in Vancouver's Kitsilano neighbourhood, conveniently situated along the Commercial Corridor. The practice benefits from excellent accessibility via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots. The practice is integrated within a larger healthcare setting, offering a discreet and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking mental health care in Vancouver.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Dahi, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Dahi are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Dahi's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dahi, 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 Dahi 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.

What does a Psychiatrist like Dahi 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. He is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Dahi 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Dahi?

For your first psychiatric appointment with Dahi, 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 Dahi can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.

Does Dahi offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Dahi, are trained in various forms of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may offer it as part of their treatment approach, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with medication. The specific types of psychotherapy offered can vary (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy). It's best to inquire directly with Dahi's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand his approach to therapy and if it's a service He provides or if He would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.

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

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

Richmond Hospital
301-1753 11TH Ave W
Vancouver, BC V6J 2C1

Phone: (604) 889-0023

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

Dr. Dahi is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Dahi for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312513/Dahi%2CAbdorrahim