Dr. Michael Stafford Shabbits – Psychiatrist | Richmond, BC

Dr. Michael Stafford Shabbits 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 Richmond Hospital in Richmond, BC, 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 approach is grounded in a commitment to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that respects patient autonomy and promotes recovery.

Dr. Shabbits graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Psychiatrist. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring his adherence to rigorous professional standards and ongoing clinical excellence. His training and certifications reflect his dedication to providing the highest quality psychiatric services within the provincial healthcare framework.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes collaborative care, patient empowerment through education and understanding, and the application of evidence-based treatment approaches. Dr. Shabbits strives to foster a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, ensuring patients in Richmond receive personalized and effective mental health support. He provides care exclusively in English, aiming to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all patients seeking mental health treatment.

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

Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)

• Gambling Disorder (Behavioral Addiction): Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
• Stimulant Use Disorder (e.g., Cocaine, Amphetamines): Problematic pattern of stimulant use leading to impairment or distress.

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).
• Schizophrenia: A serious mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often involving delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and impaired functioning.

Mood Disorders

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression related to changes in seasons, most commonly beginning in the fall and continuing through the winter months.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with less severe but longer-lasting symptoms than major depression, present for at least two years.

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

• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): A time-limited therapy that focuses on interpersonal relationships and social functioning as they relate to current psychiatric symptoms, particularly depression.
• Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity/Competency Evaluation - specific contexts): Specialized evaluations to determine an individual's mental capacity to make informed decisions regarding treatment, finances, or other legal matters, often in forensic or geriatric settings.
• 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.
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy: Exploratory therapy focused on understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Psychiatric Cases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging diagnoses, treatment-resistant conditions, or complex psychopharmacological management plans.
• Group Therapy (various focuses, e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, DBT skills): Facilitating therapeutic groups where individuals with similar concerns can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive mutual support under the guidance of a therapist.

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

Richmond Hospital is situated in Richmond's Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood, easily accessible via public transit and car. The facility is conveniently served by the Canada Line stations and various TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus) routes, making it straightforward for patients to reach. The hospital campus offers ample paid parking options, some with direct access to the building. The environment is designed to be discreet and welcoming, with the psychiatric services offered in a dedicated, stand-alone unit within the hospital. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to provide a comfortable and private environment for all patients, emphasizing confidentiality and respect in every aspect of care.

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

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

Do I need a referral to see Shabbits, 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 Shabbits 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.

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

A referral to a Psychiatrist like Dr. Shabbits 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.

How is confidentiality handled in psychiatric care?

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

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

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

How can I prepare for my first appointment with Shabbits?

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

Richmond Hospital
210-7671 Alderbridge Way, Richmond Mental Health Team
Richmond, BC V6X 1Z9

Phone: (604) 675-3975 | Fax: (604) 270-6507

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

Dr. Shabbits 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. Shabbits 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/325104/Shabbits%2CMichael