Dr. Liam John Dodge – Psychiatrist | Coquitlam, BC

Dr. Liam John Dodge, a Forensic Psychiatrist, has expertise at the interface of mental health and the law, providing assessments and care within legal contexts. Practicing at a mental health clinic within a hospital department in Coquitlam, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Dodge conducts specialized psychiatric evaluations for legal contexts, such as fitness to stand trial or criminal responsibility assessments, and may provide treatment for mentally disordered offenders. His work involves comprehensive assessments and tailored interventions for adults involved in or requiring evaluation for legal proceedings. The practice is committed to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

Dr. Dodge graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine (BM) BS from the University of London, United Kingdom. He holds specialty certification as a Forensic Psychiatrist, recognized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. His certifications include other credentials recognized by the College Registration Committee, reflecting his qualifications and expertise in the field of forensic psychiatry.

Guided by a philosophy of maintaining objectivity and adhering to ethical principles in medicolegal assessments, Dr. Dodge provides clear, comprehensive psychiatric opinions to the legal system. He is dedicated to ensuring fairness in the administration of justice while offering compassionate care to his patients in Coquitlam. All services are provided in English, with a focus on supporting patients through respectful, confidential, and thorough mental health care.

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

Personality Disorders

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.

Mood Disorders

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression related to changes in seasons, most commonly beginning in the fall and continuing through the winter months.
• 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.

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

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

• 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.
• Expert Witness Testimony in Legal Proceedings: Providing expert psychiatric opinion and testimony in court cases involving mental health issues.
• Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) for Psychiatric Conditions (Legal/Insurance): Conducting objective psychiatric evaluations for insurance claims, disability assessments, or other legal matters.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Located in the Central Coquitlam, Harbour Chines neighbourhood, Dr. Dodge's practice is situated within a dedicated mental health clinic at a hospital facility that offers easy access to major transit routes, including the TransLink SkyTrain Millennium Line, West Coast Express, and local bus services. The practice is conveniently accessible via public transit and has ample paid parking options, some with direct access to the building. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients, emphasizing a discreet and welcoming atmosphere. Its strategic location near the Port Mann Bridge and Highway 1, close to Canadian Tire and Superstore area, ensures ease of access for patients from various parts of the Lower Mainland. The practice is integrated within a larger healthcare setting, ensuring comprehensive care and support for individuals with complex mental health and legal needs.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Dodge, a Forensic Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Forensic Psychiatrist like Dodge 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 Dodge's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dodge, a Forensic 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 Forensic Psychiatrist such as Dodge 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 Dodge?

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

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Dodge and a Psychologist?

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

What does a Forensic Psychiatrist like Dodge specialize in?

A Forensic 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 Forensic Psychiatrist, specializing in Forensic Psychiatry. Dodge 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. His role often involves medicolegal assessments, risk evaluations, and providing expert testimony in court.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

Does Dodge offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Dodge, 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 Dodge'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.

70 Colony Farm Rd, Forensic Psychiatric Hospital
Coquitlam, BC V3C 5X9

Phone: (604) 524-7700

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

Dr. Dodge is a licensed Forensic 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. Dodge 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/377914/Dodge%2CLiam