Dr. Stéphane Tanguay – Psychiatrist | Lévis, QC

Dr. Stéphane Tanguay, a Geriatric Psychiatrist, specializes in the mental health needs of older adults, addressing conditions such as late-life depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Practicing at Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis in Lévis, QC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). Dr. Tanguay's role involves comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management of mental health issues in the elderly population, with a focus on providing personalized and holistic care that respects the dignity and autonomy of his patients.

He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Geriatric Psychiatry. With over 8 years of experience practicing as a Geriatric Psychiatrist since 2016, he possesses the necessary certifications and credentials to deliver specialized mental health care in Quebec. His expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions affecting older adults, ensuring evidence-based and compassionate treatment approaches.

Dr. Tanguay’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to late-life mental health, considering medical, psychological, and social factors. He is dedicated to working collaboratively with patients, their families, and caregivers to develop tailored treatment plans that promote well-being, independence, and quality of life. Serving the Lévis community, he communicates fluently in French and is committed to providing a discreet, welcoming, and respectful environment for all his patients.

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

Geriatric Psychiatry (Mental Health in Older Adults)

• Grief & Bereavement in Older Adults: Coping with loss in later life, which can sometimes lead to complicated grief or depression requiring psychiatric support.
• Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD): Non-cognitive symptoms common in dementia, such as agitation, aggression, psychosis (delusions, hallucinations), depression, anxiety, and apathy.
• Late-Onset Psychosis / Schizophrenia: Development of psychotic symptoms or schizophrenia for the first time in older adulthood.

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.

Mood Disorders

• Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. Effective mental health care is highly personalized. Please consult with Dr. Stéphane Tanguay for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

• 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.
• 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.
• Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
• 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.
• 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.
• Management of Psychosis in the Elderly: Careful diagnosis and management of late-onset psychosis or psychotic symptoms related to other medical or neurological conditions in older adults.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Tanguay for care relevant to your specific mental health needs.

All psychiatric services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant psychiatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis is situated in Lévis's Lévis Centre, Lauzon neighborhood, offering easy access via public transit, including the Société de transport de Lévis (STLévis). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, with designated accessible spots. The practice’s discreet setting ensures a welcoming atmosphere for older adults seeking mental health care. The location's proximity to the Parcours des Anses (Waterfront Walkway) offers a peaceful environment that complements the therapeutic experience.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Tanguay, a Geriatric Psychiatrist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Geriatric Psychiatrist like Tanguay are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Tanguay's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Tanguay, a Geriatric 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 Geriatric Psychiatrist such as Tanguay 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 Tanguay offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Tanguay, 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 Tanguay'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.

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Tanguay?

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Tanguay 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.

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

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

Hôtel-Dieu de Lévis
143 rue Wolfe
Lévis, QC G6V 3Z1

Phone: (418) 835-7121 | Fax: (418) 835-7271

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

Dr. Tanguay is a licensed Geriatric Psychiatrist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another medical doctor is typically required for consultations with Dr. Tanguay for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=93275