Dr. Andreia Zavaloni Scalco – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Andreia Zavaloni Scalco 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, 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. Dr. Scalco adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, professional mental health services for her patients.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2009, accumulating over 15 years of experience in the field. Dr. Scalco is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating her commitment to maintaining excellence in psychiatric care and adhering to provincial standards.

Her clinical philosophy centers on collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. She utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in both English and Portuguese, Dr. Scalco is dedicated to providing accessible and culturally sensitive mental health care to her diverse patient population in Toronto. She is committed to supporting her patients' journey towards recovery and well-being in a safe, confidential, and welcoming environment.

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

Mood Disorders

• 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.
• 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.

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.
• 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.

Personality Disorders

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• 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.
• 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.
• Treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) with Medication: Pharmacological management of major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar I & II disorder, and cyclothymia, utilizing evidence-based medication strategies.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Scalco 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. Scalco practices at a discreet and welcoming mental health clinic located in Toronto's Lawrance Park neighborhood. The facility is conveniently accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus) services, making it easy for patients to reach from various parts of the city. The environment is designed to be comfortable and private, fostering a sense of safety and confidentiality for all who visit. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for patients of all abilities. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate those with mobility needs. Whether arriving by public transportation or private vehicle, patients can expect a discreet, accessible, and supportive setting for their mental health care.

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

Do I need a referral to see Scalco, 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 Scalco 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 is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

Does Scalco offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Scalco, 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 Scalco'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 does a Psychiatrist like Scalco 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. Scalco 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Scalco?

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

Unit 2, 2075 Bayview Ave
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-4624 | Fax: (416) 480-5144

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

Dr. Scalco 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. Scalco 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/Scalco-Andreia-Zavaloni/0223758-83548