Dr. Marc Therrien – Neurologist | Gatineau, QC

Dr. Marc Therrien, a Epileptologist, provides expert care for adult patients with conditions related to Epilepsy. Practicing at CISSSO, Hôpital de Hull in Gatineau, QC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, ethical, and effective neurological care. Dr. Therrien's role centers on the comprehensive management of epilepsy and seizure disorders, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and tailoring individualized treatment plans to optimize patient outcomes. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, emphasizing compassionate care and patient education.

He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 25 years of experience as an Epileptologist since 1999. His extensive postgraduate training and certifications qualify him to practice in Quebec, specializing in the diagnosis and management of complex neurological disorders. Dr. Therrien maintains active involvement in continued medical education to stay current with evolving neurological therapies and diagnostic techniques, ensuring his patients benefit from the latest advancements in epilepsy care.

Guided by a philosophy of patient-centered care, Dr. Therrien adopts a holistic approach to neurological health, combining evidence-based practices with ongoing patient education and support. He is dedicated to providing personalized treatment strategies that address each patient's unique needs. Fluent in French, he ensures clear communication and compassionate engagement with his diverse patient community in Gatineau, fostering trust and collaborative decision-making in the management of neurological health.

Dr. Marc Therrien addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
• Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
• Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Movement Disorders

• Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.
• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
• Parkinson's Disease: A progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement, often including tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Marc Therrien.

• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
• Diagnosis & Comprehensive Management of Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders: Including seizure type classification, anti-epileptic drug (AED) management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Evaluation for Epilepsy Surgery, Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), or Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): Assessing suitability for advanced epilepsy treatments when medications are not fully effective.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Management of Status Epilepticus (in hospital setting): Emergency treatment for prolonged or recurrent seizures.
• Long-Term Epilepsy Monitoring (LTM) / Video-EEG Monitoring - Interpretation & Management Planning: Extended EEG recording, often with video, to capture seizure events and aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Therrien for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

CISSSO, Hôpital de Hull is situated in Gatineau's Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighbourhood, serving as a key medical facility within the Hôpital de Gatineau area. The clinic is easily accessible via public transit, including the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), which includes the Rapibus BRT system. The facility is wheelchair accessible and provides convenient parking options at or near the location, ensuring ease of access for all patients seeking specialized neurological care. As part of the hospital's specialized units, the clinic offers comprehensive services in a modern, patient-friendly environment dedicated to neurological health and support.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Therrien, a Epileptologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Epileptologist like Dr. Therrien, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Therrien's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Therrien, a Epileptologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Epileptologist like Dr. Therrien for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What does a Epileptologist like Dr. Therrien specialize in?

A Epileptologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Epileptologist, specializing in Epilepsy. Dr. Therrien is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

How does Dr. Therrien manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Therrien will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

CISSSO, Hôpital de Hull
116 Boul Lionel Émond
Gatineau, QC J8Y 1W7

Phone: (819) 966-6200 | Fax: (819) 966-6315

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Therrien is a licensed Epileptologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Therrien for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=99297