Dr. Ernst Georg Brenken 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 Insight Diagnostic Imaging Corp in North York, ON, 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. Dr. Brenken adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and effective patient care. His approach emphasizes confidentiality and respect, fostering a safe environment where patients can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in Canada and has over 33 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 1991. Dr. Brenken is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and clinical experience enable him to provide expert assessment and treatment across a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions, integrating evidence-based practices with personalized care strategies.
Dr. Brenken is committed to collaborative care, believing in empowering his patients through education and understanding of their mental health. He emphasizes building a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. Fluent in both English and German, he facilitates effective communication with a diverse patient population in North York, ensuring that language barriers do not impede access to quality mental health care.
Dr. Ernst Brenken provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Mood Disorders
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms than major depression, present for at least two years.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
- 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.
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.
- 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. Ernst Brenken for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- 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.
- 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.
- Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
- 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.
- 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. Brenken 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.
Insight Diagnostic Imaging Corp is situated in North York within areas near central North York. The practice is conveniently accessible via local public transit, with multiple bus routes and subway stations nearby. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots. The practice's discreet and welcoming atmosphere is designed to foster a sense of safety and confidentiality, making it an ideal setting for mental health care in the community.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Brenken, 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 Brenken 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 Brenken's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Brenken, 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 Brenken 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. Brenken 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. Brenken 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 Brenken?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Brenken 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 psychiatrist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.
- What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Brenken?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Brenken will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Brenken or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Brenken, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Brenken 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 Brenken?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Brenken, 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 Brenken can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
Insight Diagnostic Imaging Corp
Suite 101, 6A- 170 The Donway West, Suite 910,
North York, ON M3C 2E8
Phone: (416) 515-7538
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Brenken 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. Brenken 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/Brenken-Ernst-Georg/0041528-55504