Dr. Ozotu Rosemary Abu – Psychiatrist | Smithers, BC

Dr. Ozotu Rosemary Abu 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 Smithers, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Abu provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Her approach is compassionate and patient-centered, fostering a safe environment where individuals can explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) from the University of Benin in Nigeria and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. She also maintains certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her practice aligns with the highest standards of psychiatric care in Canada.

Dr. Abu’s clinical philosophy is rooted in collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. She employs evidence-based treatment approaches and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to providing personalized mental health services to her patients in Smithers, advocating for their mental health needs with compassion and professionalism.

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

Mood Disorders

• Bipolar Disorder (Type I, Type II, Cyclothymia): Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.
• 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.
• 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.

Personality Disorders

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Substance/Medication-Induced Psychotic Disorder: Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations or delusions) that develop during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or after exposure to a medication.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).

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

• 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 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• 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.
• 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.
• Neuropsychiatric Evaluation & Cognitive Assessment (Initial Screening/Referral): Initial assessment of cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms, with referral for detailed neuropsychological testing if indicated, to differentiate psychiatric from neurological conditions.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Abu 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 in an accessible area near central Smithers, Dr. Abu's practice is situated within a reputable mental health clinic or hospital department. The practice is conveniently reachable via local public transit, with clear signage and directions. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, some with direct access to the building, ensuring ease of visit for patients coming from various parts of Smithers and surrounding communities. The setting maintains a discreet, welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes patient confidentiality and comfort.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Abu, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Abu 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 Abu's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Abu, 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 Abu 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 Abu?

It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Abu will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Abu or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Abu, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Abu 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 Abu 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. Abu 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Abu?

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

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Abu?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Abu 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.

3793, Alfred Avenue, Smithers Mental Health Clinic
Smithers, BC V0J 2N0

Phone: (250) 847-6405

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

Dr. Abu 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. Abu 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/357808/Abu%2COzotu