Dr. Maxym Ihor Choptiany – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Maxym Ihor Choptiany 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 the University Health Network in Toronto, ON, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). He 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 thorough understanding of the complex interplay between psychological and physical health, ensuring each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. 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. Choptiany obtained his Medical Degree from the University of Manitoba in Canada and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2014, accumulating over 10 years of experience in mental health care. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), which certifies his expertise and adherence to rigorous professional standards. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures he remains current with the latest advances in psychiatric medicine and evidence-based practices.

Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Choptiany emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect, which is fundamental to successful mental health treatment. His clinical approach integrates evidence-based methods tailored to each individual's needs, fostering an environment where patients feel supported and understood. He provides care primarily in English, aiming to serve the diverse community of Toronto with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Maxym Choptiany 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.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).

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.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.

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

• 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.
• 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 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• 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.

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

Located within the University Health Network in Toronto's Little Portugal, Trinity neighborhood, Dr. Choptiany's practice offers a discreet and welcoming environment. The facility is situated near Polson Pier, easily accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus) services. The practice is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby public lots are available to accommodate visitors. The clinic's setting within a larger healthcare facility ensures seamless integration of services, emphasizing confidentiality and patient comfort. The practice's location within Toronto's vibrant and accessible community underscores its commitment to providing high-quality mental health care to diverse populations.

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

Do I need a referral to see Choptiany, 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 Choptiany 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.

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Choptiany?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Choptiany 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.

Does Choptiany offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Choptiany, 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 Choptiany'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.

What does a Psychiatrist like Choptiany 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. Choptiany 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Choptiany?

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

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

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

University Health Network
1001 Queen Street West, Toronto General Hospital Department of Anesthesia
Toronto, ON M6J 1H4

Phone: (416) 535-8501

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

Dr. Choptiany 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. Choptiany 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/Choptiany-Maxym-Ihor/0258375-91618