Dr. Padmavathy Kanagarajan – Psychiatrist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Padmavathy Kanagarajan is a specialized Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, dedicated to diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. Practicing at a mental health clinic within Surrey, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community, adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her focus is on understanding the developmental considerations that influence youth mental health, addressing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder-related challenges in young people. Her compassionate approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of each child's unique needs, fostering a supportive environment for recovery and growth.

She holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) degree from Dr. M.G.R. Medical University in India and is certified as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist by recognized bodies including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her certifications reflect her ongoing commitment to excellence and adherence to the latest clinical standards in mental health care for youth, ensuring her patients receive evidence-based and personalized treatment.

Dr. Kanagarajan’s clinical philosophy centers on a family-centered and developmentally-informed approach. She strives to create a safe, engaging, and respectful space for young people to explore their mental health challenges. Collaborating closely with families, schools, and other care providers, she aims to promote resilience and positive mental health trajectories. Fluent in English and Tamil, she facilitates clear communication with a diverse patient population, ensuring that cultural and linguistic needs are respected. Her dedication is rooted in her passion for supporting the well-being of children and adolescents in Surrey, BC, and her commitment to fostering a compassionate, inclusive, and effective mental health environment.

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

Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Psychiatric Aspects)

• Intellectual Disability - Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Diagnosing and managing mental health conditions that can occur alongside intellectual disabilities, adapting treatment approaches as needed.
• Tourette's Syndrome & Tic Disorders (Psychiatric Co-morbidities): Addressing co-occurring psychiatric conditions like ADHD or OCD in individuals with Tourette's or other tic disorders.

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.
• 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.
• 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.

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.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.

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

• Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation of Children & Adolescents: Specialized assessment of developmental, emotional, behavioral, and learning disorders in children and teenagers, involving interviews with the child, parents, and often school input.
• Treatment of Mood & Anxiety Disorders in Children & Adolescents (Depression, Anxiety, OCD): Age-appropriate psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions for young people experiencing mood and anxiety disorders.
• Early Intervention for Psychosis in Youth: Specialized programs for adolescents and young adults experiencing a first episode of psychosis, focusing on early diagnosis, treatment, and psychosocial support.
• 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.
• Management of ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), & Conduct Disorder in Youth: Multimodal treatment approaches for neurodevelopmental and disruptive behavior disorders, including medication management, behavioral interventions, and family therapy.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Kanagarajan 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. Kanagarajan practices at a mental health clinic located in Surrey's West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Guildford Town Centre and offers easy access via Highway 1. Public transit options include TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses, making it accessible for most patients. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and strives to provide a welcoming, private environment for all patients, emphasizing comfort and confidentiality. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby public lots, ensuring convenience for visitors. The practice's discreet and friendly atmosphere aims to support young patients and their families in a comfortable setting for mental health care.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Kanagarajan, a Child and Adolescent 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 Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist such as Kanagarajan 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 Kanagarajan offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Kanagarajan, 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 Kanagarajan'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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Kanagarajan and a Psychologist?

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

My child/teenager is struggling with significant emotional or behavioral issues. Would they see an Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist like Kanagarajan?

Yes, as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Kanagarajan specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and teenagers (typically up to age 18). This includes conditions like ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, autism spectrum disorder co-occurring issues, and early-onset psychotic disorders. She provides age-appropriate assessments, medication management if needed, and often incorporates family therapy or collaborates with schools.

What does a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist like Kanagarajan specialize in?

A Child and Adolescent 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 Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, focusing on the unique mental health needs of children and adolescents. Kanagarajan 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.

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

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

13750 96 Ave
Surrey, BC V3V 1Z2

Phone: (604) 581-2211

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

Dr. Kanagarajan is a licensed Child and Adolescent 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 pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Kanagarajan for child and adolescent psychiatric 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/302335/Kanagarajan%2CPadmavathy