Forensic Psychology Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Manisha Ram Punwani, Psychiatrist, MD
Manisha Ram Punwani
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94109
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of children, adolescents and their families. I specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
(415) 599-4349 View (415) 599-4349
Photo of Uma Lerner, Psychiatrist, MD
Uma Lerner
Psychiatrist, MD
San Francisco, CA 94123
Dr. Lerner specializes in women's mental health. She has expertise in the management of psychiatric and emotional challenges during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. Dr. Lerner focuses on the evaluation and management of the unique ways depression, anxiety, and ADHD manifest in women. Dr. Lerner utilizes an active and engaging psychotherapy approach in addition to treatment with medications.
Dr. Lerner specializes in women's mental health. She has expertise in the management of psychiatric and emotional challenges during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. Dr. Lerner focuses on the evaluation and management of the unique ways depression, anxiety, and ADHD manifest in women. Dr. Lerner utilizes an active and engaging psychotherapy approach in addition to treatment with medications.
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Photo of Bruce W. Scotton, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, CJA
Bruce W. Scotton
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, CJA
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
I am especially interested in working with people who see healing their wounds and problems as only one part of an ongoing effort to develop themselves as far as possible. This effort includes development beyond the personal into familial, community, global, and spiritual realms. Seeking to promote this perspective I am the senior editor of Textbook of Transpersonal Psychiatry and Psychology for which we won the Will Solimene Award for Excellence in Medical Communication. This perspective also values learning the accumulated knowledge of other cultures.
(650) 924-9400 View (650) 924-9400
Photo of Jennifer Ruthenburg, Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Jennifer Ruthenburg
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Online Only
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
(415) 942-5772 View (415) 942-5772
Photo of Dr. James Eyerman - Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman, Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM
Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM
San Francisco, CA 94123
James Eyerman, MD— I am a psychopharmacologist who integrates holistic medicine for the relief of anxiety and depression, trauma, and family problems. I provide EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems therapy, psychodynamic insight, as well as psychedelic and alternative treatment such as Ketamine and Holotropic Breathwork. I have been certified in Integrative Holistic Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, pulse diagnosis, Jyotish, and dietary approaches. I am a committed, compassionate physician. I will support your healing and recovery. Self exploration and complete Self Actualization are the goals in our working together! See you soon!
James Eyerman, MD— I am a psychopharmacologist who integrates holistic medicine for the relief of anxiety and depression, trauma, and family problems. I provide EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems therapy, psychodynamic insight, as well as psychedelic and alternative treatment such as Ketamine and Holotropic Breathwork. I have been certified in Integrative Holistic Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, pulse diagnosis, Jyotish, and dietary approaches. I am a committed, compassionate physician. I will support your healing and recovery. Self exploration and complete Self Actualization are the goals in our working together! See you soon!
(628) 214-2265 View (628) 214-2265
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(408) 692-9134 View (408) 692-9134
Photo of Dr. Rachel Kigano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Rachel Kigano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychiatric medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders in California. I’m Dr. Rachel Kigano, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner offering virtual psychiatry for adults and adolescents. I specialize in treating burnout, substance use disorders, grief, and emotional overwhelm, helping clients feel more balanced, focused, and in control through evidence-based, personalized care.
Psychiatric medication management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders in California. I’m Dr. Rachel Kigano, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner offering virtual psychiatry for adults and adolescents. I specialize in treating burnout, substance use disorders, grief, and emotional overwhelm, helping clients feel more balanced, focused, and in control through evidence-based, personalized care.
(858) 946-4934 View (858) 946-4934
Photo of Juliet Mulele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Juliet Mulele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide telehealth psychiatric medication management and evaluation for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and related conditions. New patients can typically be seen within a few days. All appointments are conducted via secure telehealth, allowing patients to receive care from home. I often collaborate with therapists to ensure patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.
I provide telehealth psychiatric medication management and evaluation for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and related conditions. New patients can typically be seen within a few days. All appointments are conducted via secure telehealth, allowing patients to receive care from home. I often collaborate with therapists to ensure patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.
(916) 378-7519 View (916) 378-7519
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(408) 676-5193 View (408) 676-5193
Photo of Kate De La Rosa, Psychiatrist, LCP
Kate De La Rosa
Psychiatrist, LCP
Online Only
My license number is PSY21841. My goal is to improve your quality of life and to equip you with tools that feel natural and empowering, helping you build stronger connections and a more peaceful, purpose-driven life starting now. My faith reminds me that every person carries inherent worth and that healing is not just psychological but also spiritual. This perspective allows me to bring depth, hope, and purpose into the therapeutic space and beyond.
My license number is PSY21841. My goal is to improve your quality of life and to equip you with tools that feel natural and empowering, helping you build stronger connections and a more peaceful, purpose-driven life starting now. My faith reminds me that every person carries inherent worth and that healing is not just psychological but also spiritual. This perspective allows me to bring depth, hope, and purpose into the therapeutic space and beyond.
(341) 217-2804 View (341) 217-2804
Photo of Antoinette L Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Antoinette L Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a compassionate, attentive clinician who believes that the best therapy is a collaborative partnership. I work with clients to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with the goal of improving overall wellness and resilience. I offer a variety of therapeutic approaches and, when appropriate, medication management to ensure care aligns with each client’s goals and preferences. My approach emphasizes active listening, empathy, and practical strategies that can be applied in daily life.
I am a compassionate, attentive clinician who believes that the best therapy is a collaborative partnership. I work with clients to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs, with the goal of improving overall wellness and resilience. I offer a variety of therapeutic approaches and, when appropriate, medication management to ensure care aligns with each client’s goals and preferences. My approach emphasizes active listening, empathy, and practical strategies that can be applied in daily life.
(909) 255-3373 View (909) 255-3373
Photo of Markus Ploesser - Open Mind Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Open Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate! No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges–no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate! No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. We at Open Mind Health offer a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges–no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
(619) 949-0858 View (619) 949-0858

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sarah J Polfliet, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah J Polfliet
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
Dr. Sarah Polfliet is a psychiatrist practicing in San Francisco. Educated at the University of Virginia, trained at UCSF, and certified by the Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, she provides adult psychotherapy and psychopharamology. Dr. Polfliet has experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties with psychotherapy and/or medication. She also has a special interest and additional training in natural medicines and supplements. She practices a collaborative approach with her clients to guide treatment decisions and is able to discern what approach to treatment is most likely to be effective.
(415) 685-4127 View (415) 685-4127
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(510) 901-4644 View (510) 901-4644
Photo of Adam Nelson, Psychiatrist, MD
Adam Nelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
I currently see patients in my private office, where I specialize in working with a broad spectrum of complex diagnoses and conditions, such as atypical mood disorders, psychoses, and personality disorders. I use an integrative treatment approach to address several possible areas of concern, including genetics, epigenetics, biochemistry, interpersonal skills, current stress, and historical life experiences.
(415) 578-9413 View (415) 578-9413
Photo of Karen Paster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, APRN
Karen Paster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, APRN
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Karen Paster is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia. She is dual-certified in Family Medicine. She obtained a master's in nursing from Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, and a Post Master’s Certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Purdue Global University in Indiana.
Karen Paster is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorders, and Schizophrenia. She is dual-certified in Family Medicine. She obtained a master's in nursing from Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, and a Post Master’s Certification in Psychiatric-Mental Health from Purdue Global University in Indiana.
(720) 927-8098 View (720) 927-8098
Photo of David E Arredondo - Applied Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatrist, MD
Applied Clinical Neuroscience
Psychiatrist, MD
Menlo Park, CA 94025
"Somethings's GOT to give. I can't take this any more! No one understands. My spouse? No way. The last doctor said "more meds" and spent as much time with the computer as he did with me! My teenager is sad and going no where fast. I think the younger one might have some kind of Asperger's, ADD,OCD,ODD,PSTD or some alphabet soup salad that I'm just supposed to deal with. The counselors out there are just too young to understand what I'm going through. Certainly life wasn't meant to be like this."
"Somethings's GOT to give. I can't take this any more! No one understands. My spouse? No way. The last doctor said "more meds" and spent as much time with the computer as he did with me! My teenager is sad and going no where fast. I think the younger one might have some kind of Asperger's, ADD,OCD,ODD,PSTD or some alphabet soup salad that I'm just supposed to deal with. The counselors out there are just too young to understand what I'm going through. Certainly life wasn't meant to be like this."
(650) 288-6479 View (650) 288-6479
Photo of David Kan, Psychiatrist, MD
David Kan
Psychiatrist, MD
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I am an addiction and general psychiatrist. I practice evidence-based treatment and Medication Assisted Treatment for addictive disorders (Suboxone, Naltrexone). I believe in a patient-centered approach to treatment. I want to meet you where you are to craft a treatment plan that gets you to where you want to be. I can help you achieve control over your addiction (Opioids like Heroin, Oxycontin, Vicodin, alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, and/or tobacco). I am a general psychiatrist as well and you don't need to be addicted in order to seek help.
I am an addiction and general psychiatrist. I practice evidence-based treatment and Medication Assisted Treatment for addictive disorders (Suboxone, Naltrexone). I believe in a patient-centered approach to treatment. I want to meet you where you are to craft a treatment plan that gets you to where you want to be. I can help you achieve control over your addiction (Opioids like Heroin, Oxycontin, Vicodin, alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, and/or tobacco). I am a general psychiatrist as well and you don't need to be addicted in order to seek help.
(925) 361-3399 View (925) 361-3399

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Pilar Laborde-Lahoz, Psychiatrist, MD
Pilar Laborde-Lahoz
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Patients often feel mixed emotions when first seeing a mental health professional. On the one hand, they may feel relieved that they finally took this important step. On the other hand, they may feel hesitation about having to discuss their most intimate problems with a stranger. It is important to let them take their time to open up when they are ready, and to reassure them that this information is privileged.
Patients often feel mixed emotions when first seeing a mental health professional. On the one hand, they may feel relieved that they finally took this important step. On the other hand, they may feel hesitation about having to discuss their most intimate problems with a stranger. It is important to let them take their time to open up when they are ready, and to reassure them that this information is privileged.
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Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, Psychiatrist, MD
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, double board certified in general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. I conduct legal / forensic / psychiatric evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, competency evaluations, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, cognitive evaluations, immigration evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychiatric evaluations / assessments.
(831) 401-4823 View (831) 401-4823

See more therapy options for San Francisco

FAQ - Forensic Psychology Psychiatrists
What is forensic psychiatry?
Forensic psychiatry is a specialized branch of psychiatry that applies psychiatric knowledge and expertise to legal matters, such as criminal cases, family court matters, disability claims, and workplace disputes. Forensic psychiatrists work at the intersection of mental health and the legal system, providing evaluations, expert testimony, and consultations in cases where mental health is relevant to the case.

How does a forensic psychiatrist differ from a traditional psychiatrist?
Traditional psychiatrists generally focus on treating clients over time, developing a lasting relationship that can involve ongoing psychiatric medication management and/or psychotherapy. In contrast, forensic psychiatrists primarily conduct evaluations to answer specific legal questions, such as whether someone is competent to stand trial or whether someone poses a risk to themselves or others. They typically are only involved with an individual for a limited period of time and are often appointed by the court, not sought out by an individual looking for mental health services. Additionally, because the psychiatrist's obligation is to the court or legal process, not to the individual being evaluated, this means confidentiality is limited, and the findings of the evaluation may be shared with attorneys, judges, or other parties involved in the case.

When would someone see a forensic psychiatrist?
Someone would typically see a forensic psychiatrist when their mental health is relevant to a legal matter. In criminal cases, this might involve evaluating whether an individual is competent to stand trial or whether mental illness affected their understanding of their actions during a crime. In family court cases, this may also involve a forensic psychiatrist evaluating a parent's mental health and ability to care for a child. In other cases, individuals or their attorneys may voluntarily seek out a forensic psychiatrist to conduct an independent evaluation to support their legal case, although this is less common.