About
Dr. Brynn Marion Fredricksen 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 New Westminster, BC, 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 compassionate, patient-centered care within a safe and respectful environment. The practice is committed to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. She is board-certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her adherence to high standards of psychiatric practice and ongoing professional development. Her certifications ensure she stays current with evolving best practices in mental health care, providing her patients with evidence-based and effective treatment options.
Dr. Fredricksen’s clinical philosophy is rooted in collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. She strives to build a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. Her dedication to her patients in New Westminster is reflected in her commitment to personalized care, utilizing evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to each individual’s unique needs. She provides care exclusively in English, ensuring clear and effective communication throughout the treatment process.
Dr. Brynn Fredricksen provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Somatic Symptom Disorder & Illness Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by significant focus on physical symptoms (Somatic Symptom Disorder) or preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness (Illness Anxiety Disorder), causing major distress or functional impairment.
- Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- 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.
- 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).
Mood Disorders
- 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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Brynn Fredricksen 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.
- 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.
- Group Therapy (various focuses, e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, DBT skills): Facilitating therapeutic groups where individuals with similar concerns can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive mutual support under the guidance of a therapist.
- 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 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Fredricksen 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.
Situated within a dedicated mental health facility in New Westminster's Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood, Dr. Fredricksen’s practice offers a welcoming and discreet environment. The clinic is located in the Uptown Business District, easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located, some with direct building access, ensuring ease of access for those attending appointments. The practice is designed to be discreet and welcoming, fostering a sense of safety and confidentiality for every patient.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Fredricksen, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Fredricksen 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 Fredricksen's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Fredricksen, 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 Fredricksen 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 if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Fredricksen?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Fredricksen will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Fredricksen or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Fredricksen, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Fredricksen can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?
- Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Fredricksen 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. Fredricksen will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Fredricksen?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Fredricksen 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.
2nd Floor, 403 Sixth Street, New Westminster Mental Health Centre
New Westminster, BC V3L 3B1
Phone: (604) 777-6800 | Fax: (604) 522-6223
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Fredricksen 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. Fredricksen 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/333545/Fredricksen%2CBrynn