Dr. Mei Chen – Psychiatrist | Guelph, ON

Dr. Mei Chen 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 Guelph, ON, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. She 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. Her approach is grounded in compassion, understanding, and a commitment to supporting her patients' well-being. The practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, ethical care. The clinic offers a safe, confidential, and respectful environment where patients are encouraged to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and mental wellness.

Dr. Chen earned her Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada. She has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 2024 and is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her training and certification reflect her expertise and dedication to providing evidence-based mental health care tailored to each individual's needs.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Dr. Chen is committed to providing patient-centered services in English, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel valued and understood. She aims to help her patients achieve their best mental health through a combination of compassionate listening, thorough assessment, and personalized treatment plans.

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

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• 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.
• Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

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

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

• 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.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• Psychopharmacological Management & Medication Optimization: Prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, stimulants) to treat various mental health disorders, focusing on efficacy, tolerability, and minimizing side effects.
• Individual Psychotherapy (various modalities): Offering one-on-one talk therapy tailored to individual needs, potentially incorporating elements from different therapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, CBT, supportive).
• 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.
• 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. Chen 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. Chen's practice is situated within a reputable mental health clinic located in the Kortright Hills neighborhood of Guelph, ON, near Hanlon Creek. The facility is conveniently accessible from Victoria Road Recreation Centre and is served by Guelph Transit buses, making it easy for patients to reach. The clinic is committed to providing a discreet and welcoming environment, ensuring patient privacy and comfort. It is fully wheelchair accessible and aims to offer a calming space for mental health care. Paid parking options are available nearby, with some spots offering direct access to the building, facilitating convenient and private visits for all patients.

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

Do I need a referral to see Chen, 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 Chen 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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Chen and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Chen, 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Chen?

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Chen 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. Chen 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 Chen?

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

What does a Psychiatrist like Chen 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. She is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Chen 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.

649 Scottsdale Drive
Guelph, ON N1G 4T7

Phone: (519) 837-4444

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

Dr. Chen 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. Chen 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/Chen-Mei/0324800-116505