Dr. Subramanya Sastry Bhagavatula – Psychiatrist | Sudbury, ON

Dr. Subramanya Sastry Bhagavatula 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 Sudbury, 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. Dr. Bhagavatula adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that each patient receives safe, respectful, and confidential care. His practice is committed to fostering a supportive environment where patients can openly discuss their concerns and work collaboratively towards recovery and well-being.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Delhi in India and has accumulated over 16 years of experience as a Psychiatrist since 2008. Dr. Bhagavatula is recognized as a Specialist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC), licensed and credentialed through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His extensive training and ongoing professional development enable him to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered mental health services tailored to individual needs.

Dr. Bhagavatula is committed to a collaborative approach, emphasizing patient empowerment through education and understanding. He believes in building a therapeutic alliance founded on trust, respect, and open communication. In addition to English, he speaks Bengali, Hindi, Panjabi/Punjabi, Telugu, and Urdu, which allows him to connect effectively with a diverse patient population in Sudbury. His clinical philosophy centers around personalized care, integrating the latest research and clinical guidelines to support each patient’s journey towards mental wellness.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.
• Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis despite clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Alcohol Use Disorder: A chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• 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.
• Impulse Control Disorders (e.g., Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania): Difficulties controlling impulses or urges, leading to behaviors that are harmful to oneself or others.
• Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.

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.
• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• 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.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Bhagavatula 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. Bhagavatula practices within a well-established mental health clinic located in the Downtown Sudbury, Minnow Lake, Ramsey Lake Area neighborhood. The facility is situated conveniently near the Costco Area and Commercial Corridor, making it accessible for patients from various parts of Sudbury. Public transit options, including GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit), serve the location, ensuring easy access for those relying on public transportation. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients, fostering confidentiality and ease of access. Ample parking is available with metered street parking and nearby public lots, offering flexibility for patients arriving by car. The practice strives to maintain a discreet and welcoming atmosphere, supporting patients’ needs for privacy and comfort during their mental health journey.

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

Do I need a referral to see Bhagavatula, 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 Bhagavatula 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 Bhagavatula offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Bhagavatula, 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 Bhagavatula'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.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Bhagavatula 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. Bhagavatula 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 Bhagavatula?

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Bhagavatula 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 psychiatrist is indicated. Psychiatrists are also consulted for diagnostic clarification and comprehensive treatment planning, especially for co-occurring conditions.

680 Kirkwood Drive
Sudbury, ON P3E 1X3

Phone: (705) 675-5900 | Fax: (705) 671-3031

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

Dr. Bhagavatula 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. Bhagavatula 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/Bhagavatula-Subramanya-Sastry/0198748-78733