Dr. Zohar Waisman – Psychiatrist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Zohar Waisman, a Forensic Psychiatrist, has expertise at the interface of mental health and the law, providing assessments and care within legal contexts. Practicing at a mental health clinic or hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. His practice adheres to the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Waisman conducts specialized psychiatric evaluations for legal contexts, such as fitness to stand trial or criminal responsibility assessments, and may provide treatment for mentally disordered offenders. His work primarily involves adults involved in or requiring assessment for legal proceedings. The 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 holds a medical degree (MD) from McMaster University in Canada and is certified as a Forensic Psychiatrist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certifications ensure that he delivers expert, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to the unique needs of each patient and legal circumstance.

Dr. Waisman's clinical philosophy emphasizes maintaining objectivity and upholding ethical principles in medicolegal assessments. He is dedicated to providing clear, comprehensive psychiatric opinions that support the fair administration of justice. His approach is centered on respecting patient dignity and confidentiality, and he provides care in English to residents of Vancouver and surrounding areas.

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

Personality Disorders

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, and marked impulsivity.
• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.

Schizophrenia Spectrum & Other Psychotic Disorders

• Delusional Disorder: Characterized by one or more firmly held false beliefs (delusions) that persist for at least one month, without other prominent symptoms of schizophrenia.
• 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.
• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.

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.
• Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder - psychiatric co-management): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions, and ability to function, often requiring multidisciplinary care including psychiatric management.

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

• Forensic Psychiatric Evaluations (e.g., Fitness to Stand Trial, Criminal Responsibility): Specialized assessments conducted for legal purposes, such as determining an individual's mental state at the time of an offense or their competency to participate in legal proceedings.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• Supportive Psychotherapy: A therapeutic approach aimed at reducing distress, reinforcing coping mechanisms, and improving adaptive functioning through a supportive therapeutic relationship.
• 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.
• Treatment & Rehabilitation of Mentally Disordered Offenders (in correctional or specialized forensic settings): Providing psychiatric care and rehabilitation services to individuals with mental disorders who are incarcerated or under the jurisdiction of a review board.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Waisman 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 Vancouver's vibrant Yaletown, Downtown South neighbourhood, Dr. Waisman's practice is situated within a modern mental health facility that is easily accessible by public transit and private transportation. The clinic is conveniently served by multiple TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express - Waterfront station, making it simple for patients from across the region to attend appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby public lots are available for those arriving by car. The practice offers a discreet, welcoming atmosphere designed to foster trust and confidentiality for every patient.

Are psychiatric consultations and treatments with Waisman, a Forensic Psychiatrist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic assessments, and medication management provided by a licensed Forensic Psychiatrist like Waisman 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 Waisman's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Waisman, a Forensic 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 Forensic Psychiatrist such as Waisman 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 Waisman?

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

What does a Forensic Psychiatrist like Waisman specialize in?

A Forensic Psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who has completed specialized training in psychiatry, which is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication. He is a Forensic Psychiatrist, specializing in Forensic Psychiatry. Waisman is trained to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems and can provide a range of treatments including psychotherapy, medications, and sometimes other interventions like ECT or rTMS.

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

The main difference is that a Psychiatrist, like Waisman, 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 can I prepare for my first appointment with Waisman?

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

777 Hornby Street, Suite 1080
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1S4

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

Dr. Waisman is a licensed Forensic 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. Waisman 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/301218/Waisman%2CZohar