About
Dr. Munachiso Uhoegbu 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 within a hospital department in Peterborough, ON, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Uhoegbu's approach is rooted in a compassionate understanding of her patients' unique experiences, fostering a safe environment for growth and recovery.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calabar in Nigeria and has accumulated over 8 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 2016. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest advancements and best practices in mental health care.
Dr. Uhoegbu is committed to collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. She believes in evidence-based treatment approaches and fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in English and Ibo, she is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population in Peterborough, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to quality mental health care.
Dr. Munachiso Uhoegbu provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
- Delusional Disorder: Characterized by one or more firmly held false beliefs (delusions) that persist for at least one month, without other prominent symptoms of schizophrenia.
- Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
Personality Disorders
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
- Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
- Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder - psychiatric co-management): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions, and ability to function, often requiring multidisciplinary care including psychiatric management.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Munachiso Uhoegbu for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity/Competency Evaluation - specific contexts): Specialized evaluations to determine an individual's mental capacity to make informed decisions regarding treatment, finances, or other legal matters, often in forensic or geriatric settings.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Uhoegbu 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 in the Downtown Peterborough, Central neighborhood, the mental health clinic is situated within a modern healthcare facility that serves as a dedicated psychiatric service point in Peterborough. The practice is conveniently accessible by public transit, with Peterborough Transit stops nearby, and offers ample paid parking options, some with direct access to the building. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. The setting emphasizes discretion and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that patients feel safe and respected while seeking mental health support. The clinic is integrated within a larger healthcare setting or functions as a standalone psychiatric service within the hospital, tailored to meet the needs of the community with a focus on accessible, high-quality mental health care.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Uhoegbu, 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 Uhoegbu 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 Uhoegbu's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Uhoegbu, 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 Uhoegbu 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 Uhoegbu and a Psychologist?
- The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Uhoegbu, 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 Uhoegbu?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Uhoegbu, 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 Uhoegbu can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- Does Uhoegbu offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Uhoegbu, 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 Uhoegbu's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.
- How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?
- Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Uhoegbu 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. Uhoegbu 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 Uhoegbu?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Uhoegbu will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Uhoegbu or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Uhoegbu, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Uhoegbu can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
Suite 409, 1 Hospital Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 7C6
Phone: (705) 743-2121
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Uhoegbu 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. Uhoegbu 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/Uhoegbu-Munachiso/0319220-112311