Dr. Samir Shah

As a therapist and Board-Certified Psychiatrist, I strive to approach each individual with empathy, curiosity, and respect. My extensive work with people from diverse economic, gender, sexual, cultural, and racial backgrounds gives me a unique lens through which I understand the complexities of human behavior, mental health, and healing. Our mental health is not only influenced by individual experiences but also by the broader context of society, culture, and history. This holistic perspective allows me to connect with clients in a meaningful way and offer individualized approaches to the healing journey. I received my Medical Degree from NYU School of Medicine, and completed my residency training in Psychiatry at UCLA-Olive View in Los Angeles. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress management. I believe in the power of healing—whether through therapy, medications, or a combination of approaches. While medication is not for everyone, I have seen it play a crucial role in treatment for many people. If we determine that it would be beneficial to try a medication, we will thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits before starting. There will be regular check-ins to ensure it is serving its purpose. And ultimately the decision about whether or not to take a medication I prescribe is yours and yours alone.

I believe in the fundamental beauty and resilience of the human spirit. We are all complex beings, with both pain and joy that are impossible to fully express. Despite this, we all have a deep desire to feel understood by others. I truly love the process of building a trusting relationship, of diving into another person’s world and seeking to understand them on a level that invites healing to occur. And it is not only through the discussion and processing of our experiences that healing happens. It is also through the development of a genuine relationship, one that encourages open and honest communication, especially around difficult topics. In that respect, I also deeply value humility. I do not know everything, and I do not shy away from that. I will not stop being curious and trying to learn more about your perspective. I do not believe in a top-down approach to healing, where I know what is best and I tell you what to do to feel better. You hold the keys to your own healing. Therefore, I will strive to walk the path of healing with you, as we discover more about the complexities of this world together. I believe this approach gives you the best chance at building the life that you want for yourself, and feeling agency over the process and results of our time together.

When working with me, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental space where you are encouraged to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. I believe that mental health work is a collaborative process in which trust is a vital component. Therefore, I partner closely with each individual to build trust and establish a relationship that is both supportive and empowering. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and develop insight into your own challenges as we examine the patterns that repeat in your life, and the ways that your past connects to your present. Ultimately, this approach will help open up the path towards leading the life you want to live.