About
Dr. Pratap Lakshmi Narayan, a Forensic Psychiatrist, has expertise at the interface of mental health and the law, providing assessments and care within legal contexts. Practicing at a mental health clinic in Port Coquitlam, 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). He conducts specialized psychiatric evaluations for legal contexts, such as fitness to stand trial or criminal responsibility assessments, and may provide treatment for mentally disordered offenders. Dr. Narayan's focus is on delivering comprehensive medico-legal assessments and mental health care tailored to the needs of adults involved in or requiring evaluation for legal proceedings. The practice is committed to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) from NTR University of Health Sciences in India. He holds specialty certification as a Forensic Psychiatrist and has achieved key certifications including the Practice Eligibility Route for the Subspecialty Examination Affiliate Program recognized by the College Registration Committee. His medical education and training have equipped him with the expertise to serve complex forensic psychiatric cases with professionalism and integrity.
Dr. Narayan’s clinical philosophy emphasizes maintaining objectivity and upholding ethical principles in all medicolegal assessments. He provides clear, comprehensive psychiatric opinions to the legal system and is dedicated to contributing to the fair administration of justice. His approach is patient-centered, respectful, and focused on delivering high-quality mental health care in English. He is committed to supporting his patients in Port Coquitlam through discreet, compassionate, and professional psychiatric services.
Dr. Pratap Narayan provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Personality Disorders
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): A preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and mental and interpersonal control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency (distinct from OCD).
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.
- 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.
Mood Disorders
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Pratap Narayan for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
- Forensic Psychiatric Evaluations (e.g., Fitness to Stand Trial, Criminal Responsibility): Specialized assessments conducted for legal purposes, such as determining an individual's mental state at the time of an offense or their competency to participate in legal proceedings.
- Individual Psychotherapy (various modalities): Offering one-on-one talk therapy tailored to individual needs, potentially incorporating elements from different therapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, CBT, supportive).
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Skills Training / Informed Therapy: Providing DBT-informed therapy or facilitating DBT skills groups to help individuals manage intense emotions, reduce self-harming behaviors, and improve relationships, particularly for borderline personality disorder.
- 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 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. Narayan 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 the North Port Coquitlam (Coquitlam border) neighbourhood, Dr. Narayan's practice is situated within a well-equipped mental health clinic or hospital department in Port Coquitlam. The facility offers convenient access via Pitt River Bridge and Port Coquitlam Station (WCE). Public transit options include TransLink (Bus, West Coast Express), ensuring easy reach for patients. The location is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility needs. The setting emphasizes discretion, professionalism, and a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking mental health and forensic psychiatric services.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Narayan, a Forensic Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Forensic Psychiatrist like Narayan 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 Narayan's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Narayan, a Forensic 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 Forensic Psychiatrist such as Narayan 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 does it mean if Narayan is involved in Forensic Psychiatry?
- As a Forensic Psychiatrist, Narayan has specialized expertise at the intersection of mental health and the law. He may conduct psychiatric evaluations for legal purposes, such as assessing an individual's fitness to stand trial, criminal responsibility (mental state at the time of an alleged offense), or risk of future violence. He might also provide treatment to individuals with mental disorders who are involved in the criminal justice system (e.g., in correctional facilities or forensic hospitals) or offer expert testimony in court.
- What does a Forensic Psychiatrist like Narayan specialize in?
- A Forensic 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 Forensic Psychiatrist, specializing in Forensic Psychiatry. Dr. Narayan 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. Narayan 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. Narayan will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- What if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Narayan?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Dr. Narayan will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Dr. Narayan or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Dr. Narayan, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Dr. Narayan 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 Narayan?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Narayan 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 psychiatrist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.
2755 Lougheed Hwy, #34A122
Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 5Y9
Phone: (236) 304-5145
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Narayan is a licensed Forensic 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. Narayan 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/371545/Narayan%2CPratap