Dr. Elijah Guy Ekisa – Psychiatrist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Elijah Guy Ekisa 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. Dr. Ekisa adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). 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 is committed to delivering respectful and confidential mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from Scotland and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. Dr. Ekisa has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary credentials to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Alberta. His qualifications ensure that he is well-equipped to address complex mental health issues with a high standard of clinical expertise and ethical practice.

Dr. Ekisa’s clinical philosophy is rooted in collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. He utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Committed to serving the Edmonton community, he provides care in English, ensuring clear communication and personalized treatment planning tailored to each patient's unique needs.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.
• 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.
• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

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

• Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder - psychiatric co-management): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions, and ability to function, often requiring multidisciplinary care including psychiatric management.
• Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Elijah Ekisa 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Located in Edmonton's W Central: Crestwood, Parkview neighborhood, Dr. Ekisa's practice is situated within a modern mental health clinic or hospital department. The setting offers convenient access to prominent landmarks such as the Government Centre and Legislature Grounds. Patients can reach the facility via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including Light Rail Transit (LRT) and bus routes. The location is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby public lots are available, ensuring ease of access. The practice maintains a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, emphasizing confidentiality and patient comfort.

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

Do I need a referral to see Ekisa, 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 Ekisa 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.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Ekisa 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. Ekisa will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Ekisa and a Psychologist?

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

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

124 Meadowlark Shopping Ctr NW
Edmonton, AB T5R 5W9

Phone: (780) 443-7477

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

Dr. Ekisa 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. Ekisa 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=399a5d52-977e-4a0b-a801-3ac208f6abea&i=420