Dr. Robert Ouellette 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 Hôpital Sainte-Anne in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. He provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including diagnostic assessment, medication management, and psychotherapeutic interventions for a variety of conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. His approach emphasizes compassion, understanding, and respect for each patient's unique experience. 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.
Dr. Ouellette holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1970, accumulating over 54 years of experience in mental health care. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in psychiatry and holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, in accordance with the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His credentials reflect a deep commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence and ethical practice.
Guided by a philosophy of collaborative care, Dr. Ouellette believes in empowering his patients through education and understanding. He employs evidence-based treatment approaches and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in both French and English, he is dedicated to providing accessible mental health services to the diverse community of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. His goal is to support each patient in achieving optimal mental health and overall well-being.
Dr. Robert Ouellette provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.
- 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.
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).
- 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.
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.
- Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Robert Ouellette for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Management of Sleep Disorders (Insomnia, Parasomnias - psychiatric aspects): Pharmacological and behavioral approaches to treating sleep difficulties that are secondary to or co-occurring with psychiatric conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Ouellette for care relevant to your specific mental health needs.
All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Hôpital Sainte-Anne is situated in the vibrant neighborhood near central Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, offering easy access via local public transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Visitors will find convenient paid parking options located nearby, some with direct access to the building, ensuring a discreet and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking mental health care. The practice's setting is designed to foster confidentiality and ease of access, reflecting Dr. Ouellette’s commitment to patient-centered care.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Ouellette, a Psychiatrist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Ouellette are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Ouellette's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- Do I need a referral to see Ouellette, 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 Ouellette 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 a Psychiatrist like Ouellette 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. Ouellette 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 Ouellette?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Ouellette will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Ouellette or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Ouellette, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Ouellette can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Ouellette?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Ouellette, 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 Ouellette can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Ouellette?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Ouellette 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.
Hôpital Sainte-Anne
305 boul des Anciens-Combattants
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 1Y9
Phone: (514) 457-3440
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Ouellette is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Ouellette for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=70145