Dr. Ian Gary Swayze – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ian Gary Swayze 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 Toronto, 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. His practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring professional, ethical, and confidential care for all patients.

Dr. Swayze graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. With over 27 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 1997, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of mental health conditions and their treatment. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development.

Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Swayze emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in evidence-based treatment approaches and fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Dedicated to serving the Toronto community, he provides care in English and remains committed to supporting patients in achieving their mental health and well-being goals in a safe, respectful, and discreet environment.

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

Personality Disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.

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).
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.

Mood Disorders

• Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.
• 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.

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

• Medication Management for ADHD in Adults & Children/Adolescents: Prescription and monitoring of stimulant and non-stimulant medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder across the lifespan.
• 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.
• Individual Psychotherapy (various modalities): Offering one-on-one talk therapy tailored to individual needs, potentially incorporating elements from different therapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, CBT, supportive).
• 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.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• 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.

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

Dr. Swayze practices at a discreet mental health clinic located in Toronto’s Little Portugal, Trinity neighbourhood. The facility is situated within a vibrant area close to the Yorkville Shopping District, easily accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The practice environment is designed to be welcoming and private, providing a safe space for patients to discuss sensitive concerns. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate patients with mobility needs. The location offers a discreet, accessible, and welcoming atmosphere for individuals seeking mental health care in Toronto.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Swayze, 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 Swayze 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 Swayze's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Swayze, 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 Swayze 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.

What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Swayze?

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

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

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

1001 Queen St. West
Toronto, ON M6J 1H4

Phone: (416) 535-8501 | Fax: (416) 583-1324

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

Dr. Swayze 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. Swayze 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/Swayze-Ian-Gary/0051580-65559