Dr. Joel Sadavoy – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Joel Sadavoy 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 Hawthorne Place 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 is committed to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

Dr. Sadavoy graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in Canada and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1973, accumulating over 50 years of experience. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), holding license number 21963. His extensive training and certifications underpin his expert approach to mental health care delivery in accordance with the highest professional standards.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Dr. Sadavoy is dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance founded on trust and respect, ensuring that each patient in Toronto receives personalized and compassionate care. He provides services primarily in English and is committed to supporting his patients' journey to mental wellness through a respectful, empathetic, and professional approach.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder & Other Mental Illness): The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more other psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

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.
• 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.

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.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, involving symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Joel Sadavoy 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Treatment of Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Panic, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD) with Medication: Use of anxiolytics, antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), and other medications to manage symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
• 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. Sadavoy 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.

Hawthorne Place is situated in Toronto's vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park neighborhoods. The practice is conveniently located near the Princess of Wales Theatre and Royal Alexandra Theatre, making it accessible for patients attending cultural and entertainment venues. Public transit options are abundant, with easy access via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, some with direct building access, ensuring ease of access for those arriving by car. The setting offers a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, prioritizing patient comfort and confidentiality.

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

Do I need a referral to see Sadavoy, 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 Sadavoy 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 Sadavoy?

For your first psychiatric appointment with Sadavoy, 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 Sadavoy can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.

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

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

Does Sadavoy offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Sadavoy, 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 Sadavoy'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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Sadavoy and a Psychologist?

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

Hawthorne Place
60 Murray Street
Toronto, ON M5T 3L9

Phone: (416) 586-5262 | Fax: (416) 586-3231

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

Dr. Sadavoy 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. Sadavoy 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/Sadavoy-Joel/0017178-21963