Dr. Tilak De Fonseka Mendis – Psychiatrist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Tilak Fonseka 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 Toronto, 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 adheres to the standards set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). This commitment ensures that patients receive high-quality, ethical, and confidential mental health services in a respectful environment.

Dr. Fonseka graduated with a Medical Degree from Guy's Hospital Medical School in the United Kingdom and has been practicing as a Psychiatrist since 1978, accumulating over 45 years of clinical experience. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), maintaining his certification through ongoing professional development and adherence to provincial standards. His extensive background enables him to provide expert psychiatric evaluation and treatment tailored to individual patient needs.

Dedicated to a collaborative approach, Dr. Fonseka believes in empowering his patients through education and understanding of their mental health conditions. He practices evidence-based treatment and fosters a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and confidentiality. Fluent in English and Sinhalese, he facilitates effective communication with a diverse patient population in Toronto, ensuring that all individuals feel heard and supported throughout their mental health journey.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• 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.
• 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).

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Schizoaffective Disorder: A condition that includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and a mood disorder (like depression or mania).
• 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.
• Brief Psychotic Disorder: A sudden, short-term episode of psychotic behavior, often following a highly stressful event, lasting less than one month.

Anxiety, OCD & Trauma-Related Disorders

• Specific Phobias (e.g., heights, animals, injections): Intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation that poses little or no actual danger.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): Intense fear or anxiety of social situations where one might be scrutinized by others, leading to avoidance.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 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. Fonseka 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. Fonseka's practice is located within a modern mental health clinic in Toronto's vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown, and Grange Park neighborhoods. The facility is conveniently accessible by public transit, including TTC services such as subway, streetcar, and bus routes that serve the area. It is situated near Polson Pier and is easily reached from major transit hubs, providing ease of access for patients from across Toronto. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, some with direct building access, ensuring discreet and hassle-free visits. The setting fosters a welcoming and confidential atmosphere, prioritizing patient comfort and privacy.

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

Do I need a referral to see Fonseka, 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 Fonseka 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.

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Fonseka?

For your first psychiatric appointment with Fonseka, 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 Fonseka can also ensure you get the most out of your consultation.

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

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

Does Fonseka offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Fonseka, 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 Fonseka'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.

60 Leonard Ave
Toronto, ON M5T 0S8

Phone: (844) 662-5886

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

Dr. Fonseka 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. Fonseka 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/Mendis-Tilak-De-Fonseka/0039059-53035