Dr. Parthasarathy Kandasamysomasundaram – Psychiatrist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Parthasarathy Kandasamysomasundaram 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 Surrey, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and ethical care. Dr. Kandasamysomasundaram provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. He is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and confidential environment where patients can explore their concerns and work collaboratively towards recovery and well-being.

He 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 Psychiatrist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His extensive training and certification reflect his dedication to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development. Dr. Kandasamysomasundaram’s expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, and he strives to offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Driven by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Kandasamysomasundaram emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. In addition to English, he speaks Tamil, which helps him connect with a diverse range of patients in Surrey. His approach is grounded in the latest clinical evidence, and he is dedicated to supporting his patients’ journey toward mental health and overall well-being.

Dr. Parthasarathy Kandasamysomasundaram 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.
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
• Agoraphobia: Fear and avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur, such as public transportation, open spaces, or crowds.

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and OCD.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Kandasamysomasundaram 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. Kandasamysomasundaram practices at a discreet mental health clinic located within a hospital department in Surrey's West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Surrey City Centre, including SFU Surrey, City Hall, and the Library, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Public transit options such as TransLink's SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services provide easy access. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and designed to offer a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, with some spots offering direct building access, ensuring convenience for those arriving by car. The setting is welcoming and discreet, aimed at providing a supportive atmosphere for mental health care within a larger healthcare facility or as a standalone psychiatric service. Patients can expect a quiet, respectful environment where confidentiality and comfort are prioritized.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Kandasamysomasundaram, 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 Kandasamysomasundaram 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 Kandasamysomasundaram and a Psychologist?

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

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

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

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Kandasamysomasundaram?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Kandasamysomasundaram 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.

Does Kandasamysomasundaram offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Kandasamysomasundaram, 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 Kandasamysomasundaram'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.

What does a Psychiatrist like Kandasamysomasundaram 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. Kandasamysomasundaram 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.

13750 96th Ave, Surrey Memorial Hospital
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. Kandasamysomasundaram 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. Kandasamysomasundaram 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/344201/Kandasamysomasundaram%2CParthasarathy