Dr. Akshya Vasudev – Psychiatrist | London, ON

Dr. Akshya Vasudev, a Geriatric Psychiatrist, specializes in the mental health needs of older adults, addressing conditions such as late-life depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Practicing at a mental health clinic or hospital department in London's Westmount South, Southcrest neighborhood, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality and confidential care for his patients.

He specializes in diagnosing and managing mental health issues in older adults, including dementia-related behavioral symptoms, late-life depression, and anxiety, considering the complexities of aging and medical comorbidities. With a focus on comprehensive assessment and holistic treatment, Dr. Vasudev provides a supportive setting tailored to the needs of older adults, emphasizing dignity, independence, and personalized care for late-life mental health challenges.

Dr. Vasudev graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Delhi in India. He has been practicing as a Geriatric Psychiatrist since 2019, accumulating over 5 years of specialized experience. Recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist, he is committed to maintaining the highest standards of psychiatric care. He believes in a holistic approach to mental health, considering medical, social, and psychological factors, and works collaboratively with patients, families, and caregivers. Fluent in Hindi, Panjabi/Punjabi, and English, he facilitates clear communication and culturally sensitive care for a diverse patient population in London.

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

Geriatric Psychiatry (Mental Health in Older Adults)

• Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD): Non-cognitive symptoms common in dementia, such as agitation, aggression, psychosis (delusions, hallucinations), depression, anxiety, and apathy.
• Grief & Bereavement in Older Adults: Coping with loss in later life, which can sometimes lead to complicated grief or depression requiring psychiatric support.
• Sleep Disorders in the Elderly (e.g., Insomnia, REM Sleep Behavior Disorder): Difficulties initiating or maintaining sleep, or abnormal behaviors during sleep, common in older adults and often linked to psychiatric or medical conditions.

Mood Disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) / Clinical Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty concentrating, significantly impairing daily functioning.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with significant mood swings, irritability, depression, or anxiety in the week or two before menstruation.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms than major depression, present for at least two years.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
• Agoraphobia: Fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur, such as public transportation, open spaces, or crowds.

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

• Diagnosis & Management of Dementia-Related Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms (BPSD): Assessment and non-pharmacological/pharmacological management of agitation, aggression, psychosis, or mood changes associated with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
• Polypharmacy Review & Medication Optimization in Geriatric Psychiatry: Careful review of medications to minimize side effects, drug interactions, and improve overall treatment outcomes in older adults with psychiatric 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.
• Augmentation & Combination Strategies for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Employing advanced psychopharmacological strategies, including combining medications or adding augmenting agents, for individuals who have not responded adequately to initial treatments.
• Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
• Individual Psychotherapy (various modalities): Offering one-on-one talk therapy tailored to individual needs, potentially incorporating elements from different therapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, CBT, supportive).

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Vasudev 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. Vasudev practices at a discreet and welcoming mental health facility located in London's Westmount South neighborhood, specifically in the Southcrest area. The facility is situated near Victoria Park, easily accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC) public transit routes. The premises are wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable, private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility needs. The clinic aims to foster a calm and secure atmosphere, respecting patient confidentiality and individual dignity.

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

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Geriatric Psychiatrist like Vasudev 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 Vasudev's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Vasudev, a Geriatric 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 Geriatric Psychiatrist such as Vasudev 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.

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Vasudev 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.

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

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

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Vasudev and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Vasudev, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and then specialized residency training in psychiatry. Because they are physicians, psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage psychotropic medications, and provide various forms of psychotherapy. They can also order medical tests to rule out physical causes of psychiatric symptoms. A Psychologist typically has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and is trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and providing psychotherapy (talk therapy). Psychologists generally cannot prescribe medication in Canada, though they often work closely with psychiatrists or family doctors who do.

280-1295 Riverbend Rd
London, ON N6K 0G2

Phone: (226) 495-0440 | Fax: (519) 913-5414

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

Dr. Vasudev is a licensed Geriatric 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. Vasudev 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/Vasudev-Akshya/0264784-94388