Dr. Albert Hung Choy Wong – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Albert Hung Choy Wong 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 Toronto, ON, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). 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. Dr. Wong is committed to delivering confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in Canada and has over 26 years of experience practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1998. Recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Wong has developed a robust expertise in managing complex mental health conditions. His extensive training and clinical experience enable him to offer evidence-based, individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Dr. Wong’s clinical philosophy centers on collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in establishing a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. Committed to ongoing professional development, he utilizes the latest evidence-based approaches to optimize mental health outcomes. Providing services in English, Dr. Wong is dedicated to supporting the mental well-being of patients in Toronto and surrounding communities.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to 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.

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.
• Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder - psychiatric co-management): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions, and ability to function, often requiring multidisciplinary care including psychiatric management.

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.
• 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.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression related to changes in seasons, most commonly beginning in the fall and continuing through the winter months.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Treatment of Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Panic, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD) with Medication: Use of anxiolytics, antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), and other medications to manage symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Psychopharmacological Management & Medication Optimization: Prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, stimulants) to treat various mental health disorders, focusing on efficacy, tolerability, and minimizing side effects.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Wong 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. Wong's practice is located within a discreet and welcoming mental health facility situated in Toronto's vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park neighborhoods. The clinic is easily accessible via public transit, including TTC services such as the subway, streetcar, and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients seeking mental health care. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, with some offering direct access to the building, ensuring ease of arrival for patients from various parts of the city. The environment is designed to be discreet and inviting, fostering a sense of safety and confidentiality for all individuals seeking help.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Wong, 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 Wong 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 Wong's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Wong, 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 Wong 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 if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Wong?

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

Does Wong offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Wong, 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 Wong'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.

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Wong 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Wong?

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

250 College Street
Toronto, ON M5T 1R8

Phone: (416) 535-8501 | Fax: (416) 979-6936

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

Dr. Wong 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. Wong 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/Wong-Albert-Hung-Choy/0052573-66537