About
Dr. John Strauss 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 Victoria, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Strauss provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. He is committed to offering confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.
He graduated with an MD from the University of Toronto (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. Dr. Strauss has earned certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of psychiatric practice.
Dr. Strauss’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a collaborative approach to mental health care, empowering patients through education and understanding. He utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches and aims to build a therapeutic alliance founded on trust and respect. Dedicated to serving the community of Victoria, he provides care in English, ensuring clear communication and personalized treatment planning for each patient.
Dr. John Strauss provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Personality Disorders
- Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- 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).
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
- Sleep-Wake Disorders (Insomnia, Hypersomnolence, Parasomnias - when psychiatrically related): Persistent disturbances in sleep patterns or quality that are often comorbid with or exacerbated by psychiatric conditions.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. John Strauss for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Skills Training / Informed Therapy: Providing DBT-informed therapy or facilitating DBT skills groups to help individuals manage intense emotions, reduce self-harming behaviors, and improve relationships, particularly for borderline personality disorder.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Strauss 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. Strauss’s practice is situated within a dedicated mental health clinic located in the areas near central Victoria. The facility is conveniently situated close to the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Downtown Core, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Public transit options are readily available through the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), providing easy access to the clinic. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, with some providing direct access to the building, ensuring ease of arrival for those with mobility needs. The clinic maintains a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, designed to foster confidentiality and ease for individuals seeking mental health care. It functions as a specialized psychiatric service within the hospital or as a standalone service dedicated to mental health, emphasizing privacy and patient comfort.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Strauss, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Strauss 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 Strauss's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Strauss, 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 Strauss 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 Strauss?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Strauss will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Strauss or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Strauss, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Strauss can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Strauss?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Strauss is typically considered when mental health symptoms are severe, persistent, complex, or not responding adequately to initial treatments provided by a family doctor or therapist. This can include: thoughts of suicide or self-harm; severe depression or mania; psychosis (hallucinations, delusions); debilitating anxiety or panic attacks; complex PTSD; severe OCD; suspected bipolar disorder or schizophrenia; treatment-resistant depression; or when medication management by a specialist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Strauss and a Psychologist?
- The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Strauss, 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 Strauss offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Strauss, 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 Strauss'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.
1 Hospital Way, Victoria General Hospital
Victoria, BC V8Z 6R5
Phone: (250) 727-4212
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Strauss 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. Strauss 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/374259/Strauss%2CJohn