About
Dr. Leigh Solomon 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 Toronto, ON, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, ethical, and effective care. Dr. Solomon provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Her approach is centered on fostering a safe and supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns and work collaboratively toward mental wellness.
With a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada, Dr. Solomon has over 35 years of experience as a Psychiatrist, having been in practice since 1989. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her extensive training and commitment to excellence in mental health care. Her clinical expertise is complemented by a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health conditions, enabling her to tailor treatments to each individual's unique needs.
Dr. Solomon’s clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and adherence to evidence-based treatment approaches. She is dedicated to building a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. Serving the Toronto community, she provides care in English and strives to create a welcoming atmosphere that promotes healing and resilience. Her goal is to support her patients in achieving their best mental health and overall quality of life.
Dr. Leigh Solomon provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
- 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.
- 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.
Mood Disorders
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with significant mood swings, irritability, depression, or anxiety in the week or two before menstruation.
- 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.
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- 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.
- Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Leigh Solomon for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Solomon 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.
Dr. Solomon practices at a mental health clinic located in Toronto's Bayview Village neighborhood. The facility is situated within a welcoming environment that emphasizes privacy and comfort. Patients can access the clinic easily via public transit, including the TTC subway, streetcar, and bus routes, making it convenient for those traveling from various parts of the city. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all patients can attend appointments comfortably. Paid parking options are available nearby, with some offering direct access to the building for added convenience. The setting is designed to be discreet and inviting, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their mental health concerns with confidence.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Solomon, 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 Solomon 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 Solomon's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Solomon, 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 Solomon 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. Solomon and her 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. Solomon 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 Solomon?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Solomon will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Solomon or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Solomon, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Solomon can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- Does Solomon offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Solomon, 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 Solomon's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.
4001 Leslie Street
Toronto, ON M2K 1E1
Phone: (416) 756-6000 | Fax: (416) 756-6671
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Solomon 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. Solomon 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/Solomon-Leigh/0038440-52416