Dr. Serena Wu

Psychiatry is a second career for me. Before becoming a physician, I spent many years working in nonprofit and community-based organizations in urban settings. During that time, I found myself drawn less to systems work and more to the individuals within them — their stories, their struggles, and the ways people try to make sense of difficult chapters in their lives. That desire for deeper, more sustained connection ultimately led me to medical school and to psychiatry.

My approach to care is grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and respect for each person’s lived experience. I see psychiatric treatment not simply as symptom management, but as a way to support people through periods of transition, stress, and uncertainty — with thoughtfulness, structure, and compassion.

In addition to my private practice, I continue to work medical education. Teaching and mentorship are central to my professional identity, and I work closely with residents and medical students from Bay Area medical schools and training programs. This ongoing involvement in medical education allows me to stay intellectually engaged, evidence-based, and deeply connected to the evolving practice of psychiatry.

I believe that strong psychiatric care starts with open, honest communication and a relationship built on trust. I aim to create a space where patients feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and being active participants in their treatment.

I take a thoughtful and conservative approach to prescribing. Rather than moving quickly to multiple medications, I prefer to slow down, understand the full picture, and make intentional decisions together. My goal is to find the simplest and most effective treatment plan possible — one that feels manageable, personalized, and aligned with each patient’s values and goals.

My goal for the first session is for clients to leave feeling clearer, more grounded, and reassured that what they’re experiencing is understandable and treatable. Many people come in feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about what’s going on, and I aim to help bring structure and clarity to that experience.

I take a solution-focused approach and view each appointment as a step forward. Together, we’ll discuss your concerns, review your history, and begin identifying practical next steps toward your personal wellness goals. While meaningful change often takes time, the first session is about establishing direction, creating a plan, and helping you feel less alone in the process.