Dr. Adrienne Nora Georgina Batke – Psychiatrist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Adrienne Nora Georgina Batke 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 in Victoria, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Batke's approach is grounded in providing a safe, respectful, and confidential environment where patients can explore their concerns and work collaboratively towards recovery and well-being.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest evidence-based practices in mental health care. Her certifications reflect her commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and patient safety.

Dr. Batke's clinical philosophy centers on collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. She believes in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, tailoring treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs. She provides care primarily in English and is dedicated to supporting her patients in Victoria with compassionate, evidence-based mental health services.

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

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.
• Delusional Disorder: Characterized by one or more firmly held false beliefs (delusions) that persist for at least one month, without other prominent symptoms of schizophrenia.

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Adrienne Batke 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.
• 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.
• Crisis Intervention & Urgent Psychiatric Assessment (in appropriate settings): Providing rapid assessment and intervention for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric crises, such as suicidal ideation, acute psychosis, or severe agitation, typically in emergency departments or crisis clinics.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• 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.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Skills Training / Informed Therapy: Providing DBT-informed therapy or facilitating DBT skills groups to help individuals manage intense emotions, reduce self-harming behaviors, and improve relationships, particularly for borderline personality disorder.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Batke 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.

Dr. Batke practices within a mental health clinic located in Victoria's Downtown Victoria, Inner Harbour neighborhood. The facility is situated in a vibrant area easily accessible by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with stops nearby for convenient public transit access. The practice is housed in a building that is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots for individuals with mobility needs. The environment is designed to be discreet, welcoming, and comfortable, providing a private space where patients can feel safe to discuss their mental health concerns. The clinic's location in the Inner Harbour area offers a peaceful setting, fostering a sense of calm and confidentiality for all visitors.

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

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Batke 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 Batke's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Batke, 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 Batke 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 Batke 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. Batke 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.

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Batke 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.

Does Batke offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Batke, 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 Batke's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She 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 Batke?

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Batke 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. Batke will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

1250 Quadra St, Vancouver Island Health Authority, USTAT
Victoria, BC V8W 2K7

Phone: (250) 519-3544 | Fax: (250) 519-3545

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

Dr. Batke 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. Batke 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/343206/Batke%2CAdrienne