Dr. Anastasia Dawn Karakoc – Psychiatrist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Anastasia Dawn Karakoc 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 New Westminster, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. 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 is grounded in a commitment to delivering personalized and compassionate care to support her patients' mental well-being.

Dr. Karakoc graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. She maintains her professional credentials through certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her practice aligns with the highest standards of psychiatric care and medical excellence.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Dr. Karakoc strives to foster a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, providing care in English to her patients in New Westminster. She is dedicated to supporting her patients' journey towards recovery and optimal mental health in a safe, respectful, and confidential environment.

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

Mood Disorders

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).

Personality Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): A preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and mental and interpersonal control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency (distinct from OCD).
• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Anastasia Karakoc 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Treatment of Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) with Antipsychotics: Management of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders using first and second-generation antipsychotic medications, including long-acting injectables where appropriate.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Karakoc 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. Anastasia Dawn Karakoc practices at a dedicated mental health clinic located in the vibrant Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster, BC. The facility is situated within a welcoming environment close to Westminster Pier Park, offering a calming view and easy access for patients. Public transit options include TransLink services, such as the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses, making it convenient for patients to attend appointments without the need for private transportation. The clinic premises are wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure comfort and privacy for all visitors. Metered street parking and nearby public parking lots are available to accommodate patients arriving by car. The practice maintains a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, prioritizing patient comfort and confidentiality.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Karakoc, 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 Karakoc 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.

Does Karakoc offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Karakoc, 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 Karakoc'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 Karakoc?

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Karakoc 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.

330 Columbia St E, Mental Health and Substance Use Wellness Centre
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7

Phone: (604) 520-4662

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

Dr. Karakoc 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. Karakoc 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/333509/Karakoc%2CAnastasia