Dr. Christopher Andrew Booth – Psychiatrist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Christopher Andrew Booth is a specialized Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, dedicated to diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. Practicing at Christopher Booth Clinic North Vancouver in Vancouver, 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. Booth focuses on developmental considerations in youth mental health, addressing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder-related challenges in young people. His comprehensive approach ensures that each young patient receives personalized, developmentally appropriate care. The clinic offers a youth-friendly and family-inclusive environment, dedicated to addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by children and adolescents.

He holds a medical degree (MD) from the University of Toronto and is certified as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certifications reflect a commitment to excellence in mental health care for youth, combining evidence-based practices with compassionate support tailored to each patient's needs.

Dr. Booth's clinical philosophy emphasizes a family-centered and developmentally-informed approach. He strives to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for young people, encouraging open communication and collaboration with families, schools, and other caregivers. His goal is to foster resilience and promote positive mental health trajectories, helping children and adolescents navigate life's challenges with confidence. Fluent in English, Dr. Booth is dedicated to serving the Vancouver community with professionalism and empathy.

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

Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Psychiatric Aspects)

• Tourette's Syndrome & Tic Disorders (Psychiatric Co-morbidities): Addressing co-occurring psychiatric conditions like ADHD or OCD in individuals with Tourette's or other tic disorders.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Adult & Child/Adolescent: A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
• Intellectual Disability - Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Diagnosing and managing mental health conditions that can occur alongside intellectual disabilities, adapting treatment approaches as needed.

Mood Disorders

• 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.
• Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.
• Bipolar Disorder (Type I, Type II, Cyclothymia): Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.

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

• 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.
• Management of Sleep Disorders (Insomnia, Parasomnias - psychiatric aspects): Pharmacological and behavioral approaches to treating sleep difficulties that are secondary to or co-occurring with psychiatric conditions.
• 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.
• Management of ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), & Conduct Disorder in Youth: Multimodal treatment approaches for neurodevelopmental and disruptive behavior disorders, including medication management, behavioral interventions, and family therapy.
• 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).
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Booth 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.

Christopher Booth Clinic North Vancouver is situated in Vancouver's vibrant Fairview neighborhood, conveniently accessible from Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) and the bustling City Square Shopping Centre. The location is well-served by public transit options including TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby public lots are available, ensuring ease of access for families and young patients. The clinic's discreet setting fosters a welcoming atmosphere where children and adolescents can feel at ease during their mental health journey.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Booth, a Child and Adolescent 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 Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist such as Booth 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 Booth and a Psychologist?

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

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Booth 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 Booth?

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

Christopher Booth Clinic North Vancouver
1701-805 W Broadway
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K1

Phone: (604) 800-9244 | Fax: (604) 398-3763

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

Dr. Booth is a licensed Child and Adolescent 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 pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Booth for child and adolescent psychiatric 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/324588/Booth%2CChristopher