Dr. Konrad Albert Derflinger – Psychiatrist | Lethbridge, AB

Dr. Konrad Albert Derflinger 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 Lethbridge, AB, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Derflinger 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 grounded in a commitment to patient-centered care, fostering a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking mental health support.

He has completed his medical education with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Université Laval in Canada. Following his graduation, Dr. Derflinger undertook extensive postgraduate training in psychiatry and holds the necessary certifications to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Alberta. His credentials include certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), with license number 035543, ensuring his practice meets the highest professional standards.

Dr. Derflinger’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, empowering patients through education and understanding, and applying evidence-based treatment approaches. He values building a therapeutic alliance founded on trust, respect, and open communication. In addition to English, he is fluent in French and German, which allows him to effectively communicate with a broader range of patients in Lethbridge. His dedication to his patients is reflected in his compassionate approach and ongoing commitment to mental health excellence.

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

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.
• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.
• 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.

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• Somatic Symptom Disorder & Illness Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by significant focus on physical symptoms (Somatic Symptom Disorder) or preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness (Illness Anxiety Disorder), causing major distress or functional impairment.
• 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.

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

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

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

• 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.
• Group Therapy (various focuses, e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, DBT skills): Facilitating therapeutic groups where individuals with similar concerns can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive mutual support under the guidance of a therapist.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Augmentation & Combination Strategies for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Employing advanced psychopharmacological strategies, including combining medications or adding augmenting agents, for individuals who have not responded adequately to initial treatments.
• 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.

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

Dr. Derflinger practices at a mental health clinic located in the heart of Downtown Lethbridge, in the South Lethbridge East neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near the Commercial Corridor South and Park Place Mall, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Patients can easily reach the clinic via Lethbridge Transit, with multiple bus stops nearby. The practice location is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Ample parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility needs. The clinic aims to foster a discreet, welcoming atmosphere where patients can feel safe and supported during their mental health journey.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Derflinger, a Psychiatrist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Derflinger are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Derflinger's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

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

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

What does a Psychiatrist like Derflinger 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. Derflinger 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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Derflinger and a Psychologist?

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Derflinger 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. Derflinger will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

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

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

960 19 St S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 1W5

Phone: (403) 388-6111

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

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

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=076e50ba-ebff-476b-9f75-6072a2b03d22&i=365