Dr. Sampann Gautam – Psychiatrist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Sampann Gautam 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 a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Gautam focuses on developmental considerations in youth mental health, addressing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder-related challenges in young people. The clinic offers a youth-friendly and family-inclusive environment, ensuring a compassionate approach tailored to the unique needs of each patient. The setting is designed to foster trust and comfort for children and their families, providing a safe space for open dialogue and effective treatment.

He holds a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) from Government Medical College Patiala, India, and is certified as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist by recognized certifying bodies. His certifications include the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development. Dr. Gautam’s training encompasses comprehensive psychiatric assessment and evidence-based therapeutic modalities, enabling him to offer a wide range of mental health services for youth in need.

Dr. Gautam’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a family-centered and developmentally-informed approach. He strives to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where young people feel heard and respected. Collaborating closely with families, schools, and other care providers, he aims to promote resilience, positive mental health trajectories, and overall well-being. Fluent in Hindi, Punjabi (Panjabi), and English, he facilitates clear and culturally sensitive communication with a diverse patient population across Vancouver and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Sampann Gautam 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.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Management of associated psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, or ADHD that frequently co-occur in individuals with ASD.

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.
• 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.
• 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.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• 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.
• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Sampann Gautam 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.
• 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.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Gautam 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. Gautam's practice is situated within a dedicated mental health facility located in the vibrant neighborhood of Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South in Vancouver, BC. The clinic is conveniently accessible from Oakridge Centre, which is currently undergoing redevelopment, and nearby City Hall. Patients can reach the facility via TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as local bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The building 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 to ensure ease of access. The practice emphasizes a discreet, welcoming atmosphere, integrated within a larger healthcare setting or as a specialized standalone psychiatric service, offering a safe space for children and adolescents and their families seeking mental health support.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Gautam, 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 Gautam 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 Gautam's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Gautam, 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 Gautam 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Gautam?

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

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

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

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

Yes, as a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Gautam 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. He provides age-appropriate assessments, medication management if needed, and often incorporates family therapy or collaborates with schools.

4480 Oak St, Bc Childrens Hospital, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Healthy Minds Centre
Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3

Phone: (604) 875-2010 | Fax: (604) 875-2099

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

Dr. Gautam 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. Gautam 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/377211/Gautam%2CSampann