Dr. Ginette Goulard – Psychiatrist | Gatineau, QC

Dr. Ginette Goulard 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 Clinique de santé mentale ZERO/17 in Gatineau, QC, 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 adheres to the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered care. The clinic offers a confidential, welcoming, and discreet environment designed to foster trust and support for patients seeking mental health services.

Dr. Goulard holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has over 28 years of experience practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1996. She has completed extensive post-graduate training in psychiatry and holds the necessary certifications to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Quebec, including registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), license number 96330. Her professional background is rooted in a deep commitment to ongoing education, clinical excellence, and evidence-based practice, allowing her to offer tailored treatment plans that meet each patient's unique needs.

Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Goulard believes in empowering her patients through education, understanding, and shared decision-making. She emphasizes building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and compassion. Her approach incorporates the latest evidence-based treatment strategies, including medication management and psychotherapy, to support her patients' journey toward mental wellness. Fluent in French, she is dedicated to serving the Gatineau community with integrity and a genuine commitment to improving mental health outcomes in her practice.

Dr. Ginette Goulard 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.
• 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).

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• 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.
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

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

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

All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Clinique de santé mentale ZERO/17 is situated in Gatineau's Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood, within the vibrant and accessible community of Gatineau, QC. The practice is conveniently located at the Clinique de santé mentale ZERO/17, a discreet and welcoming mental health center that offers a calm environment for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. It is easily reachable via public transit, including the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), which includes the Rapibus BRT system, ensuring convenient access for patients coming from various parts of Gatineau and surrounding areas. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate all patients. The practice emphasizes discretion, confidentiality, and a supportive atmosphere to ensure every patient feels safe and respected during their mental health journey.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Goulard, a Psychiatrist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Goulard are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Goulard's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Goulard, 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 Goulard 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 Goulard offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Goulard, 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 Goulard's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.

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

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

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

Clinique de santé mentale ZERO/17
208-259 boul Saint-Joseph
Gatineau, QC J8Y 6T1

Phone: (819) 771-0017 | Fax: (819) 775-3005

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

Dr. Goulard is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Goulard for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=96330