Dr Mahesh Menon

Registered Psychologist

My areas of expertise

My primary clinical focus is in working with individuals struggling with severe mental illness. This includes those suffering from severe and recurrent depression, bipolar disorder, and those recently discharged from inpatient care. I also provide therapy for people experiencing psychosis (including symptoms such as hallucinations and paranoia), and related difficulties.

In addition to my private practice with Changeways Clinic, I work as a psychologist on the BC Psychosis Program, based at the UBC Hospital.

My approach to therapy

The decision to work through the challenges that severe depression or psychosis present can be a scary one. It can sometimes feel like the emotions and experiences (such as hearing voices) are beyond our control. My goal as a therapist is to work with my clients in a way that allows them to feel empowered to address these challenges in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is the most well validated psychotherapeutic approach for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, and psychosis. My treatment focus is largely grounded in CBT, along with elements of mindfulness, acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).

My background

I grew up in India, and completed my Bachelor's degree and PhD in Psychology at the University of Cambridge, UK. I then did a research and clinical fellowship at the Centre for Addiction & Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, and stayed on as a faculty member at the University of Toronto, before moving to Vancouver to start my position at the UBC Hospital.

I am a Registered Psychologist in the province of British Columbia, and a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UBC. I also have an active research program, which focuses on understanding the cognitive mechanisms and brain networks associated with the symptoms of psychosis, and the role of psychotherapy in improving these symptoms.