About
Dr. Michael Alfred Weitzner, a Geriatric Psychiatrist, specializes in the mental health needs of older adults, addressing conditions such as late-life depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Practicing at a dedicated mental health clinic within a hospital department in Kamloops, 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), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered care. Dr. Weitzner focuses on providing comprehensive assessments and tailored treatment plans that respect the dignity and unique needs of each patient, emphasizing a holistic approach to late-life mental health challenges.
He is committed to creating a supportive and accessible environment for older adults, integrating medical, psychological, and social considerations in his care. His practice offers a safe space where patients and their families can discuss concerns openly, with a focus on preserving independence and quality of life. His expertise includes managing behavioral symptoms related to dementia, late-life mood and anxiety disorders, and complex psychiatric conditions often encountered in older populations.
With a strong foundation in medical education and certification, Dr. Weitzner earned his MD from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and holds specialty certification as a Geriatric Psychiatrist. He is also certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and recognized by the College Registration Committee. His clinical philosophy emphasizes a compassionate, collaborative approach, working closely with patients, families, and caregivers to develop personalized treatment strategies that promote mental well-being and autonomy in later life.
Dr. Michael Weitzner provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Geriatric Psychiatry (Mental Health in Older Adults)
- Grief & Bereavement in Older Adults: Coping with loss in later life, which can sometimes lead to complicated grief or depression requiring psychiatric support.
- Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD): Non-cognitive symptoms common in dementia, such as agitation, aggression, psychosis (delusions, hallucinations), depression, anxiety, and apathy.
- Anxiety Disorders in Older Adults: Conditions like GAD, panic disorder, or phobias presenting or persisting in later life, often complicated by medical comorbidities.
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- 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.
- Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Michael Weitzner for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- Medication Management for ADHD in Adults & Children/Adolescents: Prescription and monitoring of stimulant and non-stimulant medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder across the lifespan.
- Capacity Assessments in Older Adults (Cognitive/Psychiatric Aspects): Evaluating mental capacity in older adults for decision-making related to healthcare, finances, or living arrangements, especially in the context of cognitive decline or psychiatric illness.
- 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 Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Panic, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD) with Medication: Use of anxiolytics, antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), and other medications to manage symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress 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.
- Polypharmacy Review & Medication Optimization in Geriatric Psychiatry: Careful review of medications to minimize side effects, drug interactions, and improve overall treatment outcomes in older adults with psychiatric conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Weitzner 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.
Dr. Weitzner practices within a discreet and welcoming mental health clinic located in the Downtown Kamloops, South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The facility is easily accessible via the North Shore Business Improvement Area and Kamloops Airport (YKA) access routes. Public transportation through the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit) is available, making it convenient for patients to reach the clinic. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots to ensure ease of access. The setting is intended to foster a sense of confidentiality and reassurance for older adults seeking mental health care in Kamloops.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Weitzner, a Geriatric Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Geriatric Psychiatrist like Weitzner 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 Weitzner's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Weitzner, a Geriatric 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 Geriatric Psychiatrist such as Weitzner 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 Weitzner?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Weitzner 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.
- What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Weitzner?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Weitzner will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Weitzner or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Weitzner, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Weitzner can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- Does Weitzner have experience with mental health issues in older adults (geriatric psychiatry)?
- Yes, as a Geriatric Psychiatrist, Weitzner has specialized training and experience in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions in older adults (typically 65+). This includes late-life depression, anxiety, psychosis, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and managing psychiatric issues in the context of multiple medical comorbidities and polypharmacy. He understands the unique presentations and treatment considerations in this age group.
- Does Weitzner offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Weitzner, 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 Weitzner'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.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 377-6500 | Fax: (250) 314-2627
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Weitzner is a licensed Geriatric 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. Weitzner 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/361752/Weitzner%2CMichael