Dr. Anson Koo 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 the Department of Psychiatry, Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Koo 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. He is committed to delivering confidential, respectful, and patient-centered mental health services. The practice aims to create a safe, discreet, and welcoming environment where patients can explore their concerns and work collaboratively towards recovery and well-being.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. His medical training is complemented by certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to the highest professional standards in psychiatric care.
Dr. Koo's clinical approach is rooted in collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. He employs evidence-based treatment methods tailored to individual needs, fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Dedicated to serving the community of New Westminster, he provides care in English and is committed to supporting mental health and wellness through compassionate and effective psychiatric services.
Dr. Anson Koo provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
- 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.
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- Delusional Disorder: Characterized by one or more firmly held false beliefs (delusions) that persist for at least one month, without other prominent symptoms of schizophrenia.
- 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).
- 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. Anson Koo for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and OCD.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Koo 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. Koo's practice is situated within the Department of Psychiatry at Royal Columbian Hospital, located in the vibrant Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The facility is conveniently accessible from Royal City Centre Mall and the surrounding Uptown Business District. Patients can reach the location easily via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo Line and multiple bus routes. The hospital's psychiatric services are housed within a dedicated, private wing that ensures discretion and comfort. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, with some offering direct building access, ensuring ease of access for patients attending appointments. The practice maintains a discreet, welcoming atmosphere, emphasizing confidentiality and respectful care for all patients seeking mental health support.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Koo, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Koo 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 Koo's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Koo, 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 Koo 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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Koo and a Psychologist?
- The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Koo, 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.
- What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Koo?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Koo will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Koo or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Koo, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Koo 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 Koo?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Koo 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.
Department of Psychiatry, Royal Columbian Hospital
330 Columbia St E, Mental Health Wellness Centre, Royal Columbian Hospital - Department of Psychiatry
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. Koo 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. Koo 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/325265/Koo%2CAnson