About
Dr. Satnam Singh Kunar 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. Dr. Kunar adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that his practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. 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 personalized, evidence-based treatment within a safe and supportive environment, dedicated to fostering recovery and well-being in his patients.
Dr. Kunar graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom. He holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist and is credentialed by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His extensive training and continuous professional development enable him to deliver high-quality mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. He remains committed to ongoing education in the latest psychiatric advances and treatment modalities, ensuring his patients receive the most effective and current care available.
With a compassionate and collaborative approach, Dr. Kunar values building a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. He believes in empowering patients through education and understanding of their conditions, fostering a sense of partnership in the treatment process. Fluent in English and Punjabi (Panjabi), he is able to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population in Surrey. His clinical philosophy centers on evidence-based interventions, patient-centered care, and a respectful, stigma-free environment that encourages patients to explore their concerns and work towards improved mental health and quality of life.
Dr. Satnam Kunar provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
- Somatic Symptom Disorder & Illness Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by significant focus on physical symptoms (Somatic Symptom Disorder) or preoccupation with having or acquiring a serious illness (Illness Anxiety Disorder), causing major distress or functional impairment.
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- 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.
- Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.
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.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Satnam Kunar for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Augmentation & Combination Strategies for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Employing advanced psychopharmacological strategies, including combining medications or adding augmenting agents, for individuals who have not responded adequately to initial treatments.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- 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).
- Treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder) with Medication: Pharmacological management of major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar I & II disorder, and cyclothymia, utilizing evidence-based medication strategies.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Kunar 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. Kunar's practice is situated within a specialized mental health clinic in Surrey's West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighbourhood. The location is conveniently accessible from Surrey Memorial Hospital and major public transit routes, including the TransLink SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses. Patients can reach the clinic via public transit or by car, with paid parking options available nearby, some with direct building access. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to provide a discreet, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all patients. The clinic is part of a larger healthcare setting that emphasizes confidentiality, privacy, and patient-centered care. Its strategic location aims to facilitate easy access for patients from Surrey and surrounding areas seeking comprehensive psychiatric services in a private and professional setting.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Kunar, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Kunar 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 Kunar's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Kunar, 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 Kunar 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 Kunar?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Kunar will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Kunar or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Kunar, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Kunar 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 Kunar?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Kunar 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.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Kunar?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Kunar, 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 Kunar can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- What does a Psychiatrist like Kunar 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. Kunar 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. His role encompasses a comprehensive psychiatric approach, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors to optimize patient outcomes.
13750 96 Ave, Surrey Memorial Hospital
Surrey, BC V3V 1Z2
Phone: (604) 585-5901 | Fax: (604) 585-5902
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Kunar 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. Kunar 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/344862/Kunar%2CSatnam