Dr. Chi Hung Au – Psychiatrist | Nanaimo, BC

• Dr. Chi Hung Au is a psychiatrist in Nanaimo, BC, with extensive experience in the field of psychiatry and a commitment to ongoing education and training.
• He prioritizes a holistic and compassionate treatment strategy that acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
• Dr. Au's patient-centered care philosophy respects and honors the diversity of patients, recognizing that every individual's experiences are shaped by their cultural background and personal beliefs.
• He offers a range of mental health services, including diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, and medication management, tailored to each patient's specific requirements.

Dr. Au's Approach to Psychiatry

Grounded in a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind, Dr. Au's approach to psychiatry prioritizes a holistic and compassionate treatment strategy.

This all-encompassing approach acknowledges that mental health is intricately connected to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By considering the interconnectedness of these aspects, Dr. Au's treatment plans address the unique needs of each individual, fostering a deeper understanding of their circumstances.

Cultural sensitivity is a cornerstone of Dr. Au's approach, recognizing that every individual's experiences are shaped by their cultural background and personal beliefs.

This sensitivity enables Dr. Au to develop tailored treatment plans that respect and honor the diversity of his patients. By integrating holistic healing principles, Dr. Au's approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their recovery, promoting long-term wellness and resilience.

Through this compassionate and inclusive approach, Dr. Au provides a safe and supportive environment for his patients to navigate their mental health journeys.

What sets Dr. Au apart from his peers is his extensive experience in the field of psychiatry, garnered through years of dedicated practice and a commitment to ongoing education and training.

Throughout his career, Dr. Au has demonstrated a strong commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in psychiatric care, ensuring his patients receive the most effective and evidence-based treatments available.

Dr. Au's medical education has provided a solid foundation for his practice, with a degree from a reputable institution and completion of rigorous residency training programs.

Additionally, he holds active professional memberships with esteemed organizations, such as the Canadian Psychiatric Association and the British Columbia Psychiatric Association.

These memberships demonstrate his dedication to staying connected with the psychiatric community, contributing to the development of best practices, and advancing the field as a whole.

Through his experience and qualifications, Dr. Au has established himself as a trusted and respected psychiatrist in the Nanaimo community.

His patients can be confident in his ability to provide compassionate, individualized care that addresses their unique needs and promotes ideal mental health outcomes.

Building on his foundation of experience and qualifications, Dr. Au offers an exhaustive range of mental health services designed to address the unique needs of his patients.

His thorough approach prioritizes mental wellness, focusing on holistic healing that integrates physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of an individual's well-being.

Dr. Au provides diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, and medication management tailored to each patient's specific requirements. He also offers cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, ensuring that patients receive the most suitable treatment for their condition.

Additionally, Dr. Au provides support for individuals struggling with relationship issues, coping with grief or loss, and managing stress and anxiety.

His services extend to family therapy, group therapy, and educational workshops, promoting a collaborative approach to mental health care.

Approximately 40 million adults in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders, making them the most common mental health condition in the country, and Dr. Au is well-equipped to provide effective treatment options for these individuals.

Dr. Au understands that anxiety disorders can be debilitating, interfering with daily life and causing significant distress.

To develop a personalized treatment plan, Dr. Au works with patients to identify their unique anxiety triggers, whether they be environmental, psychological, or a combination of both.

By understanding the root causes of anxiety, Dr. Au can recommend targeted relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation, to help individuals manage their symptoms and regain control over their lives.

Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, Dr. Au helps patients develop coping strategies, build resilience, and improve their overall mental well-being.

In addition to anxiety disorders, Dr. Au also specializes in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide and can have a profound impact on daily life and relationships.

Depression is a complex condition that can manifest in various ways, including persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. Mood swings are a common symptom, where individuals may experience rapid shifts in emotions, ranging from extreme highs to debilitating lows.

Unfortunately, depression is often shrouded in myths, leading to misconceptions and stigma. One common myth is that depression is a sign of weakness, when in reality, it is a treatable medical condition. Another myth is that people can simply 'snap out of it,' when in fact, depression requires professional treatment.

Dr. Au is dedicated to providing accurate information and evidence-based treatment to help individuals overcome depression and mood disorders. By addressing these conditions, Dr. Au aims to improve the overall well-being of his patients, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives and nurture meaningful relationships.

Many individuals, including children and adults, struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can substantially impact daily functioning and relationships.

Despite its prevalence, ADHD often carries a stigma, perpetuated by myths and misconceptions. As a psychiatrist, Dr. Chi Hung Au is committed to providing accurate information and compassionate care to individuals with ADHD.

Some essential facts about ADHD include:

• ADHD is not a result of poor parenting or lack of discipline: Rather, it is a neurobiological disorder that affects executive function, working memory, and impulse control.
• ADHD is not just about hyperactivity: While hyperactivity is a common symptom, many individuals with ADHD experience primarily inattention or a combination of symptoms.

Dr. Chi Hung Au's expertise in treating ADHD also extends to addressing the complex emotional and psychological needs of individuals who have experienced traumatic events, which can often lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma can manifest in various ways, including flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of triggers that remind individuals of the traumatic event.

Dr. Au's trauma and PTSD therapy approach focuses on helping individuals identify and manage their trauma triggers, develop effective emotional regulation strategies, and process their traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. By addressing the root causes of PTSD, Dr. Au aims to empower individuals to regain control over their lives, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall well-being. With compassion and expertise, Dr. Au guides individuals towards a path of healing and recovery.

Upon recognizing that each individual's experience with trauma and ADHD is unique, Dr. Chi Hung Au develops personalized treatment plans that address the distinct needs and goals of each patient. This approach acknowledges that no two individuals respond to treatment in the same way, and that a one-size-fits-all strategy is often ineffective.

Dr. Au's personalized treatment planning involves a thorough assessment of the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and personal circumstances to identify underlying factors contributing to their condition.

Development of a holistic strategy that incorporates individualized therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the patient's specific needs.

Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan to guarantee it remains effective and relevant to the patient's evolving needs and goals.

Informed by a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and ADHD, Dr. Chi Hung Au's approach to care is rooted in a patient-centered philosophy that prioritizes the unique experiences, values, and preferences of each individual.

This philosophy is guided by a commitment to holistic healing, recognizing that each person's well-being is influenced by a complex interplay of physical, emotional, and social factors.

Dr. Au's patient-centered approach fosters empathetic engagement, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share their stories and concerns.

By actively listening and validating their experiences, Dr. Au builds trust and establishes a strong therapeutic alliance.

This collaborative approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their care, making informed decisions about their treatment and recovery.

Through patient-centered care, Dr. Au seeks to promote autonomy, dignity, and self-advocacy, ultimately supporting individuals in achieving their unique goals and aspirations.

Numerous mental health resources are available in Nanaimo to support individuals struggling with trauma, ADHD, and other mental health concerns.

As a psychiatrist in Nanaimo, Dr. Chi Hung Au recognizes the importance of community outreach and thorough care. In addition to his private practice, individuals can access a range of services and programs that promote Nanaimo wellness.

Some of these resources include:

• The Nanaimo Regional District's Mental Health and Addiction Services, which provides counseling, therapy, and support groups for adults and youth.
• The Island Health Authority's Nanaimo Mental Health and Substance Use Services, offering crisis intervention, assessment, and treatment for individuals of all ages.

These resources demonstrate the commitment to mental health care in Nanaimo, and Dr. Au's practice is an integral part of this network.

During an initial consultation with Dr. Chi Hung Au, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate assessment of their mental health concerns, which sets the foundation for a personalized treatment plan. This exhaustive evaluation allows Dr. Au to understand the unique needs and challenges of each individual, ensuring that therapy is tailored to address specific goals and objectives.

Throughout the sessions, Dr. Au employs a collaborative approach, working closely with patients to establish a deep understanding of their mental health concerns. By setting clear goals and fostering a supportive therapeutic environment, Dr. Au empowers individuals to take an active role in their recovery, promoting meaningful growth and positive change.

Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Chi Hung Au is a straightforward process that can be initiated through various convenient channels.

Patients can book an appointment with Dr. Au by contacting his office via phone or email. Additionally, an online calendar is available for patients to schedule appointments at their convenience.

Patients are encouraged to review the office policies prior to booking an appointment to guarantee a smooth and efficient experience.

A thorough intake form will be provided to patients prior to their initial consultation, which must be completed and returned to the office 24 hours in advance.

Please note that a credit card is required to secure all bookings, and 24 hours' notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling to avoid any applicable fees.

Do You Offer Virtual Sessions or Only In-Person Appointments?

"For patients seeking flexibility, I offer virtual therapy sessions, providing online convenience and accessibility to mental health care from the comfort of your own space, in addition to traditional in-person appointments."

Can I Get a Referral to Another Specialist if Needed?

If necessary, I can facilitate referrals to other specialists within my extensive network, ensuring access to diverse expertise and second opinions, thereby providing thorough care and ideal treatment outcomes for my patients.

How Long Do Typical Sessions With Dr. Au Last?

Typical session durations vary, but generally last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on individual needs and treatment frequency. Initial consultations may be longer, while follow-up sessions may be shorter, allowing for efficient and effective care.

Are Your Services Covered by the BC Medical Services Plan?

In British Columbia, many mental health services are covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP) benefits. Patients may also submit insurance claims for reimbursement, depending on their extended health insurance coverage.

Can I Request a Specific Appointment Time or Schedule?

When requesting an appointment, it is possible to specify a preferred time, considering individual time constraints. Our scheduling process accommodates varying scheduling preferences to guarantee a convenient and accessible experience for all patients.