Professional Details
Salutation
Dr.
Full Name
Dr. Claudia Garcia Thibodeau
First Name
Claudia
Last Name
Thibodeau
Gender
Female
Languages Spoken
English
Medical School
University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine
Year Graduated
2013
Degree (Country)
Canada
Specialty
Psychiatrist
Practice Disciplines
Psychiatry
Membership Status
Active as of 01-Jul-13
Specialty Issue Date
30-Jun-18
Specialty Type
RCPSC Specialist
Registration Class
Independent Practice as of 20 Apr 2020
Licensed By
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
Regulator Website
https://www.cpso.on.ca
License Number
101166
Data Sourced From
https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Garcia-Thibodeau-Claudia/0288866-101166
Address
737 Woolwich Street
Address Line 2
Division of Neurology Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Address Line 3
EG 41
City
Guelph
Province
ON
Postal Code
N1H 3Z2
Phone
(844) 264-2993

Description

About Dr. Claudia Garcia Thibodeau

Dr. Claudia Garcia Thibodeau 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 Guelph, 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 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.

Dr. Thibodeau graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine in Canada. She has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2018, bringing over 6 years of specialized experience in mental health care. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and ethics in Ontario.

Driven by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Thibodeau emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. She believes in evidence-based treatment approaches and fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Dedicated to her patients in Guelph, she provides care in English and is committed to supporting individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.

Common Conditions Dr. Claudia Thibodeau Addresses

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

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

  • Sleep-Wake Disorders (Insomnia, Hypersomnolence, Parasomnias - when psychiatrically related): Persistent disturbances in sleep patterns or quality that are often comorbid with or exacerbated by psychiatric conditions.
  • 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.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
  • 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.

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).
  • 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. Claudia Thibodeau for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Psychiatrist Services Offered by Dr. Claudia Garcia Thibodeau

  • 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.
  • 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).
  • 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.
  • Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
  • Crisis Intervention & Urgent Psychiatric Assessment (in appropriate settings): Providing rapid assessment and intervention for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric crises, such as suicidal ideation, acute psychosis, or severe agitation, typically in emergency departments or crisis clinics.

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

Practice Location & Accessibility

Dr. Thibodeau practices within a mental health clinic located in the vibrant Downtown Guelph, in the Exhibition Park neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently accessible via Guelph Central Station (GO/Via/Bus), with public transit options through Guelph Transit. The practice environment is designed to be discreet and welcoming, ensuring a comfortable and private setting for all patients. The location is fully wheelchair accessible and aims to foster a supportive atmosphere for individuals seeking mental health care. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate all patients. The clinic is situated within or adjacent to a larger healthcare facility, providing integrated care options or as a specialized standalone psychiatric service within the hospital setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Thibodeau, 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 Thibodeau 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 Thibodeau's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
Do I need a referral to see Thibodeau, 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 Thibodeau 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.
When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Thibodeau?
A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Thibodeau 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 Thibodeau?
For your first psychiatric appointment with Thibodeau, 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 Thibodeau can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Thibodeau?
It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Thibodeau will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Thibodeau or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Thibodeau, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Thibodeau can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
What does a Psychiatrist like Thibodeau 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. She is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Thibodeau 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.

Contact & Licensing Information

EG 41, 737 Woolwich Street, Division of Neurology Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Guelph, ON N1H 3Z2

Phone: (844) 264-2993

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

Dr. Thibodeau 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. Thibodeau 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/Garcia-Thibodeau-Claudia/0288866-101166

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