About
Dr. Stefanie Lauren Montgomery 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 Victoria, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). 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. Dr. Montgomery is committed to offering compassionate, respectful, and confidential mental health care, fostering a safe space for patients to explore their concerns and work towards recovery and well-being.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with evidence-based practices and advancements in the field of mental health care.
Dr. Montgomery's clinical philosophy centers around collaborative care, empowering her patients through education and understanding. She believes in building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and respect, utilizing evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to each individual's needs. She is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services in English to residents of Victoria, fostering an environment where patients feel supported and understood throughout their mental health journey.
Dr. Stefanie Montgomery provides assessment and treatment for a wide spectrum of mental health conditions, including:
Mood Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder (Type I, Type II, Cyclothymia): Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.
- 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.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) / Clinical Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty concentrating, significantly impairing daily functioning.
Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or images (obsessions) and repetitive, ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety.
- 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.
Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas
- Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
- 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.
- Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Stefanie Montgomery for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
- 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.
- Treatment of Anxiety Disorders (GAD, Panic, Social Anxiety, OCD, PTSD) with Medication: Use of anxiolytics, antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), and other medications to manage symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- 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.
- 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.
- Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Montgomery 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.
Located in Victoria's Downtown Victoria, Inner Harbour neighborhood, Dr. Montgomery’s practice is situated within a well-equipped mental health clinic or hospital department. The facility is conveniently accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with a nearby BC Transit Hub providing easy access for public transit users. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby public lots are available, ensuring convenient access. The setting is designed to be discreet and welcoming, fostering a safe space for patients seeking mental health care in Victoria.
- Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Montgomery, a Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Psychiatrist like Montgomery 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 Montgomery's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Montgomery, 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery?
- It's common for psychotropic medications to have potential side effects, especially when starting a new medication or adjusting a dose. Montgomery will discuss common side effects to watch for. If you experience side effects, it's very important to communicate this to Montgomery or her office promptly. Do not stop taking your medication suddenly unless instructed to do so by Montgomery, as this can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms or a worsening of your condition. Montgomery 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. Montgomery 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. Montgomery will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.
- How can I prepare for my first appointment with Montgomery?
- For your first psychiatric appointment with Montgomery, 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 Montgomery can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.
- Does Montgomery offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?
- Many psychiatrists, including potentially Montgomery, 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 Montgomery's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed. Montgomery’s approach is centered on providing tailored, evidence-based care to support her patients' mental health needs.
1250 Quadra St, Urgent Short Term Assessment and Treatment
Victoria, BC V8W 2K7
Phone: (250) 519-3544 | Fax: (250) 519-3545
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients.
Dr. Montgomery 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. Montgomery 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/341483/Montgomery%2CStefanie