Dr. John Chi Cheong Chan – Psychiatrist | Richmond Hill, ON

Dr. John Chi Cheong Chan 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 UHN Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Richmond Hill, ON, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Chan 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. He is committed to offering patient-centered, confidential, and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for individuals to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2005, accumulating over 19 years of clinical experience. Dr. Chan is recognized as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating his expertise and adherence to high standards in psychiatric care.

Dr. Chan’s clinical philosophy centers on collaborative care, empowering patients through education and understanding, and utilizing evidence-based approaches. He strives to build a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. Fluent in English and Chinese, he facilitates effective communication with a diverse patient population, particularly serving the Richmond Hill community with dedication and compassion.

Dr. John Chan 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.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): A preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and mental and interpersonal control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency (distinct from OCD).

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).
• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.

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.
• 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. John Chan for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• 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 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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

UHN Princess Margaret Cancer Centre is situated in the vibrant Oak Ridges and Lake Wilcox neighborhood of Richmond Hill, ON. The facility offers convenient access via Highway 404 and is located near Richmond Green, making it easily reachable for residents of York Region. Public transit options include York Region Transit (YRT) and Viva buses, providing seamless connectivity. The center is wheelchair accessible and aims to create a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to accommodate those with mobility needs. The practice maintains a discreet, welcoming atmosphere to ensure patients feel safe and respected during their mental health journey.

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

Do I need a referral to see Chan, 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 Chan 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. Chan 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. Chan will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

What does a Psychiatrist like Chan specialize in?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed specialized training in psychiatry, which is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication. He is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Chan is trained to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems and can provide a range of treatments including psychotherapy, medications, and sometimes other interventions like ECT or rTMS.

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

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

UHN Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
13311 Yonge Street
Richmond Hill, ON L4E 3L6

Phone: (905) 773-2362 | Fax: (905) 773-8499

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

Dr. Chan 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. Chan 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/Chan-John-Chi-Cheong/0126004-73893