Dr. Alice Cojocaru – Psychiatrist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Alice Cojocaru 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 Victoria, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). She 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. Her approach emphasizes a compassionate, patient-centered process aimed at fostering recovery and resilience.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from Universitatea de Medicina Si Farmacie 'Carol Davila' in Romania and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. She has obtained key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her adherence to the rigorous standards of Canadian psychiatric practice. Her ongoing commitment to professional development ensures her methods incorporate the latest evidence-based approaches in mental health care.

Dr. Cojocaru is committed to collaborative care, believing that empowering patients through education and understanding is essential to effective treatment. She fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. Fluent in English, French, and Romanian, she is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population in Victoria, helping her provide culturally sensitive and accessible mental health services. Her dedication extends beyond clinical expertise to creating a safe, welcoming environment where patients feel supported throughout their mental health journey.

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

Mood Disorders

• 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.
• 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.
• Bipolar Disorder (Type I, Type II, Cyclothymia): Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.

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).
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.

Personality Disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• 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. Alice Cojocaru for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• 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.

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

Located within a discreet and welcoming mental health facility in Victoria, the practice is situated in an area near central Victoria's vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks such as Craigdarroch Castle. The facility is accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with convenient parking options including metered street parking and nearby public lots. The center is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable, private environment for all patients. Its setting offers a calm, professional atmosphere that promotes confidentiality and ease of access, emphasizing a discreet and supportive experience for each individual seeking mental health care. The practice is integrated within a larger healthcare setting or operates as a dedicated psychiatric service within a hospital, ensuring comprehensive support and coordination of care.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Cojocaru, 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 Cojocaru 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 Cojocaru?

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

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

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

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Cojocaru 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.

1 Hospital Way, Doctors Lounge, Victoria General Hospital
Victoria, BC V8Z 6R5

Phone: (250) 727-4529 | Fax: (250) 727-4441

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

Dr. Cojocaru 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. Cojocaru 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/363935/Cojocaru%2CAlice