Dr. Bronwyn Morton Thomson – Psychiatrist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Bronwyn Morton Thomson 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 Ottawa, 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. Her approach emphasizes a compassionate and patient-centered model, ensuring that each individual receives tailored care within a confidential and respectful environment. The practice is committed to fostering a safe space where patients can explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

Graduating with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa (Canada), Dr. Thomson has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2024. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and ethical care. Her training and certification reflect a strong foundation in evidence-based psychiatric treatment, with a focus on ongoing professional development to stay current with advances in mental health care.

Dr. Thomson’s clinical philosophy centers on collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and the use of evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to build a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. Fluent in both English and French, she is dedicated to providing accessible and effective mental health services to a diverse patient population in Ottawa. Her commitment is to support each patient through a respectful, compassionate, and individualized approach to mental health care.

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

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).

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.

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).
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.
• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Bronwyn Thomson for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• 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).
• 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.
• Psychopharmacological Management & Medication Optimization: Prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, stimulants) to treat various mental health disorders, focusing on efficacy, tolerability, and minimizing side effects.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Thomson 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. Thomson practices within a mental health clinic located in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods of Ottawa. The facility is conveniently situated near the Royal Canadian Mint and easily accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). The practice environment is designed to be welcoming and discreet, ensuring patient privacy and comfort. The building is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations to foster an inclusive setting. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to facilitate ease of access for all patients. The setting aims to provide a calm, private, and accessible environment for individuals seeking mental health care in Ottawa.

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

Do I need a referral to see Thomson, 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 Thomson 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 Thomson and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Thomson, 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 Thomson?

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Thomson 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Thomson?

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

501 Smyth Rd
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6

Phone: (613) 722-7000

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

Dr. Thomson 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. Thomson 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/Thomson-Bronwyn-Morton/0328066-117999