Dr. Jeffrey Leonard Barber, Psychiatrist

Dr. Jeffrey Leonard Barber

Psychiatrist in Courtenay, BC

Dr. Jeffrey Leonard Barber 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.... Read More

Verified Licensed by CPSBC License Number: 25997 Referral Typically Required Contact for Availability English Male 31+ Years Experience University of Saskatchewan (1994), Canada
Primary Practice Location318 B Duncan Ave
Courtenay, BC
V9N 2M5
Primary Phone(250) 331-9200
Professional Details

About

Dr. Jeffrey Leonard Barber 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 Courtenay, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Barber 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 approach is centered on understanding each patient's unique needs, fostering a safe environment for open dialogue, and supporting recovery and well-being.

He graduated with an MD from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. He maintains certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his practice aligns with the highest professional standards. His training and ongoing education empower him to deliver evidence-based mental health care tailored to individual circumstances.

Dr. Barber’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect. He is committed to providing accessible, compassionate, and effective mental health services to the community of Courtenay. He offers his services in English, ensuring clear and respectful communication with his patients.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

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

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.
  • 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.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

  • Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia): Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden periods of intense fear) and persistent concern about having additional attacks or their consequences.
  • Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.

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

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and OCD.
  • Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Barber 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Barber practices at a welcoming mental health facility situated in a vibrant neighborhood of Courtenay, BC, in the Courtenay City, Comox, Cumberland, Rural Comox Valley area. The location is conveniently near the Comox Valley Hospital and North Island College's Comox Valley Campus, making it accessible for local residents. Public transit via the Comox Valley Transit System (BC Transit) provides easy access to the clinic. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Ample parking options, including metered street parking and nearby public lots, are available to accommodate visitors. The practice fosters a discreet and inviting atmosphere to ensure patients feel secure and at ease during their visits.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Barber, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Barber are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Barber's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Do I need a referral to see Barber, 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 Barber 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Barber?
For your first psychiatric appointment with Barber, 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 Barber can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Barber and a Psychologist?
The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Barber, 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.
Does Barber offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
Many psychiatrists, including potentially Barber, 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 Barber'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 if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Barber?
It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Barber will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Barber or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Barber, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Barber can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.

318 B Duncan Ave
Courtenay, BC V9N 2M5

Phone: (250) 331-9200 | Fax: (250) 331-9201

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

Dr. Barber is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Barber for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/324539/Barber%2CJeffrey

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