Dr. Joy Maria Albuquerque – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Joy Maria Albuquerque 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 Quinte Health Care Corporation in Toronto, ON, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. She adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Albuquerque 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. Her approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, aiming to create a safe, respectful environment for her patients. The practice is committed to fostering trust and supporting individuals on their journey toward mental health and well-being.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Manitoba in Canada and has over 28 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 1996. Recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Albuquerque maintains a high standard of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development. Her extensive training and clinical experience enable her to address complex mental health conditions with evidence-based approaches tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Dr. Albuquerque’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and the importance of a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. She is dedicated to providing personalized mental health services to her patients in Toronto, utilizing a comprehensive, compassionate, and holistic approach. She provides care primarily in English and strives to support her patients through every step of their mental health journey.

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

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.
• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant 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.
• 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).

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) with Medication: Pharmacological management of major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar I & II disorder, and cyclothymia, utilizing evidence-based medication strategies.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Quinte Health Care Corporation, located in Toronto's Garden District within the Ryerson neighborhood, offers a welcoming and discreet environment for mental health care. The practice is conveniently situated near the University Settlement Recreation Centre, making it accessible for patients in the downtown core and surrounding areas. Public transit options, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), ensure easy access for those using public transportation. The facility 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, ensuring convenience for patients arriving by car. The setting is designed to be discreet and welcoming, fostering a sense of safety and confidentiality for individuals seeking mental health support.

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

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

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

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

It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Albuquerque will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Albuquerque or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Albuquerque, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Albuquerque 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 Albuquerque?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Albuquerque 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.

Quinte Health Care Corporation
30 Bond St., Department Of Nuclear Medicine Belleville General
Toronto, ON M5B 1W8

Phone: (416) 864-6060 | Fax: (416) 864-5480

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

Dr. Albuquerque 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. Albuquerque 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/Albuquerque-Joy-Maria/0050706-64685