About
Dr. Savalai Vedachalam Manohar 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 The Health Centre in Timmins, ON, 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 a compassionate and patient-centered model, ensuring each individual receives tailored care within a safe and respectful environment. The practice is committed to maintaining confidentiality and fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, supporting patients on their journey to mental wellness.
Dr. Manohar graduated with a Medical Degree from Mysore University in India and has over 35 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 1989. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), adhering strictly to the high standards of medical practice set by the CPSO and provincial guidelines. His extensive clinical background enables him to address a broad spectrum of mental health concerns with expertise and dedication.
With a commitment to collaborative care, Dr. Manohar believes in empowering his patients through education and understanding of their conditions. He utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches and values building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect. Fluent in English and Tamil, he aims to facilitate effective communication and culturally sensitive care for a diverse patient population in Timmins. His goal is to support each patient’s journey toward improved mental health and overall well-being.
Dr. Savalai Manohar provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
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.
Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
- Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.
- Dual Diagnosis (Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder & Other Mental Illness): The simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and one or more other psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders
- Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.
- Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.
- 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. Savalai Manohar for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Manohar 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
The Health Centre is situated in the vibrant areas near central Timmins, ON. The location is easily accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking options include paid parking facilities located nearby, some with direct access to the building, ensuring ease of arrival for visitors. The practice fosters a discreet, welcoming atmosphere, prioritizing patient comfort and confidentiality at every visit.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Manohar, a Psychiatrist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Manohar are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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 Manohar's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Manohar, 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 Manohar 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.
- When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Manohar?
- A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Manohar 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 is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?
- Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Manohar 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. Manohar will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Manohar?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Manohar, 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 Manohar can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- What does a Psychiatrist like Manohar 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. Manohar 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 Manohar?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Manohar will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Manohar or his office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Manohar, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Manohar can help manage side effects by adjusting the dosage, switching to a different medication, or suggesting strategies to mitigate them.
The Health Centre
700 Ross Ave E
Timmins, ON P4N 8P2
Phone: (705) 267-6315
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Manohar is a licensed Psychiatrist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Manohar for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Manohar-Savalai-Vedachalam/0048815-62793