About
Dr. Onyema Uchechukwu Ohiaeri is a dedicated Psychiatrist practicing in Nanaimo, BC, with a focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a broad spectrum of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in adults. He is a key member of the local mental healthcare community, providing care at a reputable mental health clinic within a hospital department in Nanaimo’s Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Ohiaeri’s role encompasses comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions, aiming to support patients in achieving improved mental health and overall well-being. He is committed to delivering confidential, respectful, and personalized care, creating a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work collaboratively toward recovery.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) from Abia State University in Nigeria and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. Additionally, he maintains certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to the highest clinical standards. His training and certification enable him to provide evidence-based and patient-centered mental health care, tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Dr. Ohiaeri believes in a collaborative approach to mental health treatment, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. His clinical philosophy centers on building a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. He strives to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices into his care, ensuring that each patient receives a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. Fluent in English, Dr. Ohiaeri provides care to his patients in Nanaimo with a dedication to enhancing their mental health outcomes through compassionate and informed practice.
Dr. Onyema Ohiaeri provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- 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.
- Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder & Other Mental Illness): The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more other psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
- Alcohol Use Disorder: A chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.
- Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
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.
- 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. Onyema Ohiaeri 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.
- 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.
- Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
- 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.
- 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. Ohiaeri 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.
Located within a well-established mental health clinic in Nanaimo’s Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood, Dr. Ohiaeri’s practice offers a discreet and welcoming environment. The facility is situated near Nanaimo North Town Centre, providing convenient access for patients using the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The location is fully wheelchair accessible and designed to ensure patient comfort and privacy. Paid parking options are available nearby, some with direct access to the building, making it easy for patients to attend appointments in a secure and unobtrusive setting. The practice emphasizes a discreet atmosphere, fostering a sense of safety and confidentiality for all patients seeking mental health support.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Ohiaeri, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Ohiaeri 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 Ohiaeri's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Ohiaeri, 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 Ohiaeri 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 if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Ohiaeri?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Ohiaeri will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Ohiaeri or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Ohiaeri, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Ohiaeri 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 Ohiaeri 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. Ohiaeri 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. Ohiaeri and his 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. Ohiaeri will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- Does Ohiaeri offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Ohiaeri, 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 Ohiaeri'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.
203-2000 Island Hwy N, Brooks Landing,, Outpatient psychiatry service.
Nanaimo, BC V9S 5W3
Phone: (250) 739-5797 | Fax: (250) 755-3310
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Ohiaeri is a licensed 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. Ohiaeri 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/355817/Ohiaeri%2COnyema