About
Dr. Brian Max Robertson 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 Bureau privé in Montréal, QC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive care that is both professional and ethically grounded. Dr. Robertson 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 is centered on understanding each patient’s unique experience and fostering a supportive environment that promotes recovery and well-being.
Holding a Medical Degree from a recognized institution, Dr. Robertson has over 53 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since beginning his practice in 1971. He has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds all necessary certifications to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Québec, ensuring his expertise aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. His long-standing career reflects a deep commitment to advancing mental health care and staying current with evolving treatment modalities and guidelines.
Dr. Robertson’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and the application of evidence-based treatment approaches. He believes in building a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication, which forms the foundation for effective mental health treatment. Fluent in both English and French, he is dedicated to providing accessible and compassionate care to the diverse community of Montréal, always aiming to support his patients in achieving their optimal mental health and quality of life.
Dr. Brian Max Robertson provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- Agoraphobia: Fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur, such as public transportation, open spaces, or crowds.
- 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.
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
- Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
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.
- 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.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) / Clinical Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty concentrating, significantly impairing daily functioning.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Brian Max Robertson for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- 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).
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Robertson for care relevant to your specific mental health needs.
All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Bureau privé is situated in Montréal's vibrant areas near central Montréal, offering a discreet and welcoming environment for mental health care. The practice is conveniently accessible via Eaton Centre Access, with multiple options for public transit through the Société de transport de Montréal (STM), including métro and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring ease of access for patients. The setting is designed to foster confidentiality and ease, making it a trusted location for those seeking mental health support in Montréal.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Robertson, a Psychiatrist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Robertson are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Robertson's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- Do I need a referral to see Robertson, 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 Robertson 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. Robertson 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. Robertson will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Robertson?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Robertson, 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 Robertson can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- Does Robertson offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Robertson, 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 Robertson's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand his approach to therapy and if it's a service He provides or if He 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 Robertson 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. Robertson 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.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Robertson?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Robertson 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.
Bureau privé
3-4573 Rue Sherbrooke O
Montréal, QC H3Z 1G2
Phone: (514) 369-3335
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Robertson is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Robertson for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=71060
