Dr. Edward Chiedozie Odogwu – Psychiatrist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Edward Chiedozie Odogwu is a dedicated Psychiatrist practicing in Calgary, AB, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in adults. He may see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a reputable mental health clinic within a hospital department in Calgary's NW/NE: Huntington Hills, Thorncliffe neighborhood, Dr. Odogwu is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. The clinic is situated in an accessible area, close to public transit options including Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the location, with designated accessible spots. The setting offers a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring patients feel safe and supported during their mental health journey. The practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), emphasizing quality and ethical care.

He provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Odogwu's approach is patient-centered, focusing on individualized treatment plans that foster recovery and well-being. His practice upholds the highest standards of confidentiality and respect, ensuring a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work collaboratively towards mental health goals.

Dr. Odogwu earned his medical degree with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Nigeria. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in psychiatry and holds the necessary certifications to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Alberta, including certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His commitment to ongoing professional development ensures he remains current with advancements in mental health treatment and evidence-based practices.

He is dedicated to providing care through a collaborative approach, emphasizing patient education and empowerment. Dr. Odogwu believes in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. He provides his services in English and is committed to supporting the diverse needs of Calgary’s community, offering compassionate and effective mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances.

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

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, involving symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

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).

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
• 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.
• Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Odogwu 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. Odogwu's practice is located within a well-established mental health clinic in Calgary's NW/NE: Huntington Hills, Thorncliffe neighborhood. The facility is situated in an area known for its historic buildings, vibrant restaurants, and shops, making it a welcoming environment for patients. Easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services, the location ensures convenient access for residents across the city. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, designed to provide a comfortable, private, and discreet setting for mental health care. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate all patients. The environment fosters a sense of safety and confidentiality, encouraging open dialogue and effective treatment in a calming atmosphere.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Odogwu, 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 Odogwu 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 Odogwu's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Do I need a referral to see Odogwu, 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 Odogwu 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.

Does Odogwu offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Odogwu, are trained in various forms of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may offer it as part of their treatment approach, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with medication. The specific types of psychotherapy offered can vary (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy). It's best to inquire directly with Odogwu's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand his approach to therapy and if it's a service He provides or if He would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.

What does a Psychiatrist like Odogwu 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. Odogwu 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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Odogwu and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Odogwu, 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.

10-6213 Centre St NW
Calgary, AB T2K 0V2

Phone: (306) 314-5550

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

Dr. Odogwu 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. Odogwu 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=9d323b60-dc60-4688-8f5d-82a7a0725491&i=1080