Dr. Sarah Megan Tymchuk 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 reputable mental health clinic or hospital department in Edmonton, AB, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Dr. Tymchuk adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that her practice maintains the highest levels of professionalism and patient safety. She 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. Her approach is rooted in a commitment to supporting her patients’ mental health and overall well-being. The practice is dedicated to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and resilience.
Dr. Tymchuk obtained her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Calgary (Canada) and has completed extensive postgraduate training in psychiatry. She holds the necessary specialty certification as a Psychiatrist, enabling her to practice comprehensive mental health care across Alberta. Her training equips her with the expertise to address complex psychiatric conditions with a nuanced, evidence-based approach, tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and the use of evidence-based treatment approaches. Dr. Tymchuk strives to build a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, ensuring that patients in Edmonton receive compassionate and effective mental health services. She provides care primarily in English and is dedicated to supporting her patients on their journey towards mental wellness.
Dr. Sarah Tymchuk provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Mood Disorders
- 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.
- 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.
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
- Alcohol Use Disorder: A chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.
- Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
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.
- Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Sarah Tymchuk for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
- Medication Management for ADHD in Adults & Children/Adolescents: Prescription and monitoring of stimulant and non-stimulant medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder across the lifespan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Tymchuk 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Tymchuk practices within a well-established mental health clinic situated in Edmonton's S Central neighbourhood, encompassing areas such as the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park. The facility is conveniently accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) including LRT and bus routes, making it easy for patients to reach. The clinic is designed to provide a discreet, welcoming environment that prioritizes patient comfort and privacy. The building is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all individuals. Paid parking options are available nearby, with some offering direct building access, making visits convenient and stress-free. The practice aims to foster a professional yet warm atmosphere where patients feel safe and respected as they seek mental health support.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Tymchuk, a Psychiatrist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Tymchuk are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Tymchuk's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Tymchuk, 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 Tymchuk 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 if I experience side effects from medication prescribed by Tymchuk?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Tymchuk will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Tymchuk or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Tymchuk, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Tymchuk can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
- What does a Psychiatrist like Tymchuk 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. She is a Psychiatrist who assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through medication, psychotherapy, or other interventions. Tymchuk 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Tymchuk?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Tymchuk, 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 Tymchuk can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?
- Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Tymchuk and her 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. Tymchuk will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7
Phone: (780) 407-6566 | Fax: (780) 407-6672
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Tymchuk is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Tymchuk for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=9da412e5-4cc1-4234-99a7-1fb0070badaf&i=1470