Dr. Shahram Moosavi – Psychiatrist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Shahram Moosavi 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 Calgary, AB, 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. Dr. Moosavi adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, ethical care tailored to each patient’s needs.

He obtained his medical degree (MD) from Iran and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. With extensive postgraduate training and ongoing professional development, he has acquired the necessary certifications to practice Psychiatry (Comprehensive Mental Health Care) in Alberta. His credentials and experience enable him to offer expert mental health services grounded in current clinical best practices.

Dr. Moosavi is committed to collaborative care, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in building a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication. Fluent in English and Persian (Farsi), he strives to facilitate effective communication with a diverse patient population in Calgary, fostering a compassionate and welcoming environment for mental health care.

Dr. Shahram Moosavi provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Personality Disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): A preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and mental and interpersonal control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency (distinct from OCD).
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): A pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often involving deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and lack of remorse.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Develops after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event, involving symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive, persistent worry and anxiety about various everyday life events or activities, often difficult to control.

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.
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Shahram Moosavi 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.
• 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.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• 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.
• Treatment of Psychotic Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder) with Antipsychotics: Management of schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders using first and second-generation antipsychotic medications, including long-acting injectables where appropriate.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Moosavi 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. Moosavi practices at a mental health clinic within Calgary's SE: Mahogany, Auburn Bay neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently near the Foothills Medical Centre and University of Calgary, making it accessible for residents in the area. Public transit options include Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), providing easy access for patients. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients, ensuring discretion and confidentiality. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, some with direct building access, facilitating easy arrival for those with mobility needs. The setting is designed to be discreet and welcoming, fostering a safe space for patients to address their mental health concerns.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Moosavi, 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 Moosavi 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 Moosavi's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Do I need a referral to see Moosavi, 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 Moosavi 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 is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Moosavi and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Moosavi, is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed medical school and then specialized residency training in psychiatry. Because they are physicians, psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage psychotropic medications, and provide various forms of psychotherapy. They can also order medical tests to rule out physical causes of psychiatric symptoms. A Psychologist typically has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and is trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and providing psychotherapy (talk therapy). Psychologists generally cannot prescribe medication in Canada, though they often work closely with psychiatrists or family doctors who do.

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

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

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Moosavi 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. Moosavi will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

Does Moosavi offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Moosavi, are trained in various forms of psychotherapy (talk therapy) and may offer it as part of their treatment approach, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with medication. The specific types of psychotherapy offered can vary (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy). It's best to inquire directly with Moosavi's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand his approach to therapy and if it's a service He provides or if He would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.

4448 Front St SE
Calgary, AB T3M 1M4

Phone: (403) 956-1111 | Fax: (403) 956-4292

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

Dr. Moosavi 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. Moosavi 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=1f3444a8-f25a-489a-8280-477be04214ef&i=1007