About
Dr. David Anil K. Rawani 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 Edmonton, AB, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. He 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 practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, confidential, and respectful mental health care. The clinic is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment that fosters trust and encourages patients to openly explore their concerns, with a focus on recovery and overall well-being.
Dr. Rawani graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Pakistan and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in psychiatry and possesses the necessary credentials to practice comprehensive mental health care in Alberta. His certifications attest to his expertise and ongoing commitment to professional development in this field.
Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Rawani emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to each individual's needs and strives to build a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in English and Urdu, he facilitates communication with a diverse patient population in Edmonton, ensuring that language barriers do not impede quality mental health care.
Dr. David Rawani provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
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.
- 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.
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.
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. David Rawani for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
- 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.
- Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
- 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. Rawani 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Rawani practices at a mental health clinic located in the vibrant neighborhood of N Central: Queen Mary Park, Central McDougall, Blatchford Area in Edmonton. The facility is conveniently situated near the Major North-South Corridor, providing easy access from various parts of the city. Public transit options are plentiful, with Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) offering both Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes that serve the area efficiently. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, some with direct access to the building, ensuring ease of access for patients arriving by car. The setting is designed to be discreet and welcoming, fostering a sense of confidentiality and ease for individuals seeking mental health care.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Rawani, a Psychiatrist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Rawani are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Rawani's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Rawani, 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 Rawani 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 Rawani?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Rawani 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.
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Rawani and a Psychologist?
- The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Rawani, 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 does a Psychiatrist like Rawani 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. Rawani 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.
- What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Rawani?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Rawani will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Rawani or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Rawani, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Rawani can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Rawani?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Rawani, 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 Rawani can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
10230 111 Ave NW
Edmonton, AB T5G 0B7
Phone: (780) 735-7999 | Fax: (780) 735-8865
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Rawani is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Rawani for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=1e3acf5c-ffbe-44bf-bdba-4a91a72b17a0&i=1212