Dr. Mariko Elizabeth Vaughan – Psychiatrist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Mariko Elizabeth Vaughan 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 Surrey, BC, she is a key member of the local mental healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Vaughan 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. She is committed to offering compassionate, respectful, and confidential care in a supportive environment, helping patients work towards improved mental health and well-being.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. Her credentials include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her advanced training and expertise in mental health care. Dr. Vaughan continuously updates her knowledge through ongoing education to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices into her clinical approach, ensuring her patients receive the highest quality care.

With a philosophy rooted in collaborative care, Dr. Vaughan emphasizes patient empowerment through education and understanding. She believes in fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and open communication. Her approach integrates evidence-based treatment strategies tailored to each individual's unique needs, with a focus on creating a safe and welcoming environment for her patients in Surrey. She provides care primarily in English and is dedicated to supporting her patients' journey toward mental wellness with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Mariko Vaughan 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.

Other Psychiatric Conditions & Focus Areas

• Sleep-Wake Disorders (Insomnia, Hypersomnolence, Parasomnias - when psychiatrically related): Persistent disturbances in sleep patterns or quality that are often comorbid with or exacerbated by psychiatric conditions.
• Dissociative Disorders: Conditions involving disruptions or breakdowns of memory, consciousness, awareness, identity, and/or perception, often linked to trauma.
• 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.

Mood Disorders

• Bipolar Disorder (Type I, Type II, Cyclothymia): Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs.
• Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Development of emotional or behavioral symptoms like sadness or hopelessness in response to an identifiable stressor occurring within 3 months of the onset of the stressor.

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

• Couples & Family Therapy (psychiatric context): Providing therapy to couples or families to address relationship dynamics, communication problems, and the impact of mental illness on the family system.
• 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.
• 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.
• Augmentation & Combination Strategies for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: Employing advanced psychopharmacological strategies, including combining medications or adding augmenting agents, for individuals who have not responded adequately to initial treatments.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment approaches are highly individualized. Please discuss with Dr. Vaughan 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.

Dr. Vaughan practices at a well-equipped mental health facility located in Surrey's West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood, situated along a major Commercial Corridor (Guildford/Fleetwood/South Surrey). The location is easily accessible via public transit, including TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and bus services. The facility 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 access to the building, ensuring ease of access for patients attending appointments. The setting fosters a discreet, welcoming, and supportive atmosphere for individuals seeking mental health care.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Vaughan, 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 Vaughan 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 is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychiatric care. Information you share with Dr. Vaughan and her 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. Vaughan will typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of your treatment.

Does Vaughan offer psychotherapy (talk therapy)?

Many psychiatrists, including potentially Vaughan, 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 Vaughan's office or discuss this during your initial consultation to understand her approach to therapy and if it's a service She provides or if She would refer you to another mental health professional like a psychologist or social worker for more intensive or specialized psychotherapy if needed.

When should someone consider a referral to a Psychiatrist like Vaughan?

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

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

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

13646 94A Ave, Timber Creek
Surrey, BC V3V 1N1

Phone: (604) 953-4900 | Fax: (604) 953-4901

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

Dr. Vaughan is a licensed 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. Vaughan 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/333804/Vaughan%2CMariko