Dr. Simon Sin-Sing Chiu – Psychiatrist | London, ON

Dr. Simon Sin-Sing Chiu 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 London, 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 practice is committed to providing confidential and respectful mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto, Canada, and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1989, accumulating over 35 years of experience. Dr. Chiu is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), with license number 55764. His extensive training and certification ensure that he adheres to the highest standards of medical practice in Ontario.

Dr. Chiu is committed to collaborative care, believing in empowering his patients through education and understanding. He utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Fluent in Cantonese and English, he aims to facilitate clear communication and culturally sensitive care for a diverse patient population in London, ON.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Opioid Use Disorder: A problematic pattern of opioid use leading to clinically significant 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).

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Panic Disorder (with or without Agoraphobia): Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (sudden periods of intense fear) and persistent concern about having additional attacks or their consequences.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
• 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.

Personality Disorders

• Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Simon Chiu 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Chiu 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.

Dr. Chiu's practice is located within a well-established mental health clinic or hospital department in London's Hyde Park, Masonville (West) neighborhood. The facility is conveniently accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC) public transit system, with stops nearby. The location is designed to be welcoming and discreet, ensuring patient privacy and comfort. The building is wheelchair accessible, and the environment aims to provide a calming atmosphere for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located, some with direct building access, to facilitate ease of visitations. The clinic is situated close to Victoria Hospital (LHSC) and Children's Hospital (LHSC), making it a central and accessible choice for mental health care in London, ON.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Chiu, 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 Chiu 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 Chiu's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Chiu, 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 Chiu 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.

Does Chiu offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Chiu, 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 Chiu'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.

What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist like Chiu and a Psychologist?

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Chiu, 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.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

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

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Chiu 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.

231 Wharncliffe Road South
London, ON N6G 1G2

Phone: (519) 433-6923

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

Dr. Chiu 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. Chiu 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/Chiu-Simon-SinSing/0041788-55764