Colleagues and Referring Professionals

I am committed to fostering a collaborative environment with referring professionals. I believe that a multi-disciplinary approach is essential in addressing the diverse needs of the individuals we work with and ensuring continuity of care.

This approach allows professionals to develop comprehensive, holistic treatment plans that support the well-being of the individuals we provide services to regularly.

Please find details below of how I work with referring colleagues to support our mutual clients.

Collaborating with Other Professionals

Communication and Collaboration

I understand the critical importance and benefit to clients of maintaining regular and transparent communication with referring professionals. When you refer a client to my practice, you can expect:

  • Informed Consent: I always obtain written consent from clients prior to referral and collaborating. My Release of Information procedure details methods and content I am permitted to share and I regularly update any changes according to clients' preferences.
  • Regular Updates: I will usually check in with clients during sessions regarding appointments with you to ensure I send updates prior to their next visit. I make notes of any side effects of medication or effects of treatment plus any questions or concerns they share. I provide regular updates either via phone or in writing via email according to your procedures and permission from the client.

Referrals and Resources

When additional expertise is required, I am committed to providing:

  • Referrals: I can refer clients to other practitioners to ensure they receive the comprehensive care they need, if I lack expertise in a specific area. For example, I often refer out when EMDR or ketamine-assisted therapy is recommended. 
  • Shared Resources: I share relevant resources and information to support the ongoing treatment and well-being of my clients, enhancing the overall care experience. I am happy to provide referrals and recommendations to anyone who requests resources, regardless of whether they are my client or not. 

Interdisciplinary Treatment Planning

  • Medical Providers: I work closely with medical professionals to ensure that therapeutic care is integrated with medical treatment plans. This collaboration helps in creating a cohesive and effective treatment strategy. I refer to and receive referrals from PCPs, psychiatrists, gynecologists, endocrinologists, and other trauma-informed specialists in the medical field.
  • Other Therapists: I refer to EMDR therapists, somatic therapists, and other trauma specialists to work alongside my work with clients. It's a wonderful way of providing robust wraparound care whilst maintaining the long term therapeutic alliance I have with the people I work with regularly.
  • Physical Therapists: Collaboration with physical therapists promotes a comprehensive approach to health by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of a client's well-being. Emotional distress frequently leads to physical discomfort and vice versa, so working with physiotherapists, cranio sacral therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, acupuncturists, personal trainers, yoga instructors and other trauma-sensitive professionals is of immense benefit to my clients.

Discretion and Flexibility

I prioritize the confidentiality and comfort of my BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks I provide services to. My practice offers:

  • Confidentiality: All communications and shared information are handled with the utmost discretion, respecting the privacy of our clients. I often work with clients who are very concerned about privacy and I am happy to provide support and answer questions in order to give clients confidence.
  • Flexible Scheduling: I accommodate the busy and unpredictable schedules of my clients and referring professionals, ensuring timely and effective care. When you refer to my practice, you can expect a response within 48 hours, and usually sooner. 

How to Refer to Dr. Vaughn

Step 1: Initial Contact

Please contact me via email to discuss potential referrals in order that I can confirm whether I have availability. You are welcome to let me know any specific requirements for your patient such as scheduling or approach. Please only include clinical details with their prior consent. 

Step 2: Contact Your Patient

Once you have obtained a release of information, I am happy to reach out to your patient via email to set up a consultation. During the 30-minute consultation, I usually ask for some background information, and what brings them to therapy. We also discuss fees, availability and intentions for therapy in order to make sure that I am a suitable therapist to support them. 

Step 3: Continuity and Communication

Once a client signs the ROI, I will acknowledge your referral in writing and enclose the ROI for your records. I may request a report or clinic letter if you have one as this will help me to support your patient. I will follow up with regular reports, usually every 6-8 weeks. I will check in with clients during sessions regarding medication, physical and emotional symptoms and report any immediate concerns via email. I am also happy to receive communication from you regarding treatment and will bear this in mind when supporting our mutual patient.

Contact Dr. Shemya Vaughn

Please reach out via email if you would like to discuss opportunities for providing integrated care. I am always happy to provide recommendations and resources to my clients and will be happy to save your details for future reference.

Please email me at drshemyavaughn@hushmail.com