Dr. Brian Anthony De Freitas – Psychiatrist | Coquitlam, BC

Dr. Brian Anthony De Freitas 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 Coquitlam, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. 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. His approach emphasizes a compassionate and patient-centered philosophy, ensuring that each individual receives tailored care aimed at fostering recovery and well-being. The practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and ethical treatment.

Dr. De Freitas graduated with an MD CM from McGill University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. He has obtained key certifications including membership in the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining excellence in mental health care. His advanced training and ongoing professional development equip him with the latest evidence-based practices to serve his patients effectively.

He is committed to a collaborative approach, empowering patients through education and understanding of their mental health conditions. Dr. De Freitas provides care in English and values building a therapeutic alliance founded on trust and respect. His dedication is evident in his personalized approach, ensuring that each patient in Coquitlam receives compassionate, comprehensive, and effective mental health treatment.

Dr. Brian De Freitas provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Personality Disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• 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).

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.
• 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).

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder & Other Mental Illness): The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more other psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
• 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.
• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Brian De Freitas 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. De Freitas 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. De Freitas practices at a mental health clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of Southwest Coquitlam (Maillardville). The facility is conveniently accessible via the West Coast Express and public transit options including the TransLink SkyTrain Millennium Line and local bus services. The site is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients, emphasizing discretion and welcoming care. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to ensure ease of access for everyone. The clinic's setting fosters a discreet, professional, and supportive atmosphere, dedicated to supporting mental health and wellness in the Coquitlam community.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see De Freitas, 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 De Freitas 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 does a Psychiatrist like De Freitas 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. He is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. De Freitas 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 is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by De Freitas?

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

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like De Freitas and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like De Freitas, 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.

202-1130 Austin Ave
Coquitlam, BC V3K 3P5

Phone: (604) 939-8143

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

Dr. De Freitas 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. De Freitas 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/351714/De%20Freitas%2CBrian