Dr. Olga Yashchuk – Psychiatrist | Richmond, BC

Dr. Olga Yashchuk, 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 mental health clinic within a hospital department in Richmond, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, ethical care. She focuses on diagnosing and managing mental health issues in older adults, including dementia-related behavioral symptoms, late-life depression, and anxiety, all while considering the unique complexities of aging and medical comorbidities. Her approach is centered on providing comprehensive assessment, treatment, and support tailored to the needs of seniors, fostering dignity and holistic well-being in a supportive environment.

Dr. Yashchuk graduated with a Medical Doctor (MD) degree from Jagiellonian University Medical College in Poland. She holds specialty certification as a Geriatric Psychiatrist and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and certifications reflect her dedication to excellence in mental health care for older adults, enabling her to deliver specialized psychiatric services that meet the highest professional standards.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to late-life mental health, considering both medical and social factors impacting her patients. She is committed to preserving the dignity and autonomy of older adults, working collaboratively with families and caregivers to develop personalized care plans. Dr. Yashchuk provides her services in English and is dedicated to offering compassionate, expert mental health support to the Richmond community. Her practice aims to create a welcoming, respectful setting where older adults can feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and receiving tailored treatment.

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

Geriatric Psychiatry (Mental Health in Older Adults)

• Sleep Disorders in the Elderly (e.g., Insomnia, REM Sleep Behavior Disorder): Difficulties initiating or maintaining sleep, or abnormal behaviors during sleep, common in older adults and often linked to psychiatric or medical conditions.
• Grief & Bereavement in Older Adults: Coping with loss in later life, which can sometimes lead to complicated grief or depression requiring psychiatric support.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
• Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia): Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden periods of intense fear) and persistent concern about having additional attacks or their consequences.

Mood Disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) / Clinical Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty concentrating, significantly impairing daily functioning.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms than major depression, present for at least two years.

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

• Treatment of Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) with Antipsychotics: Management of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders using first and second-generation antipsychotic medications, including long-acting injectables where appropriate.
• Management of Sleep Disorders (Insomnia, Parasomnias - psychiatric aspects): Pharmacological and behavioral approaches to treating sleep difficulties that are secondary to or co-occurring with psychiatric conditions.
• Group Therapy (various focuses, e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, DBT skills): Facilitating therapeutic groups where individuals with similar concerns can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive mutual support under the guidance of a therapist.
• Late-Life Depression & Anxiety Disorder Treatment: Tailored psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches for depression and anxiety disorders in older adults, considering medication interactions and age-related physiological changes.
• Diagnosis & Management of Dementia-Related Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms (BPSD): Assessment and non-pharmacological/pharmacological management of agitation, aggression, psychosis, or mood changes associated with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Yashchuk 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. Yashchuk practices within a dedicated mental health clinic located in the Central Richmond neighborhood of Richmond, BC. The facility is situated in a vibrant area close to Commercial and Industrial Zones and the Richmond Olympic Oval, providing easy access via public transit, including the TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line) and bus services. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and designed to create a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Ample parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring convenience for those visiting from various parts of the city. The setting is discreet and welcoming, with a focus on delivering specialized psychiatric care tailored to older adults' needs in a serene, professional atmosphere.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Yashchuk, 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 Yashchuk 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 Yashchuk's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Yashchuk, 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 Yashchuk 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.

Does Yashchuk offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Yashchuk, 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 Yashchuk'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.

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

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

What does a Geriatric Psychiatrist like Yashchuk specialize in?

A Geriatric 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 Geriatric Psychiatrist, specializing in mental health conditions affecting older adults. Yashchuk 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 is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Yashchuk 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. Yashchuk will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Yashchuk and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Yashchuk, 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.

7000 Westminster Hwy, Richmond Hospital
Richmond, BC V6X 1A2

Phone: (604) 278-9711

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

Dr. Yashchuk 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. Yashchuk 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/370654/Yashchuk%2COlga