Psychiatrist in Oakland, California

Berkeley Mental Health Experts

When your mind feels out of balance, even simple daily tasks can feel overwhelming. At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we’re here to help you restore that balance with expert, compassionate care. Our psychiatrists and mental health professionals serve patients throughout Oakland, CA, providing a trusted combination of science-based medicine and human understanding.

Led by Dr. Mindy Werner-Crohn, M.D., Shira Crohn, PA-C, and Joel Crohn, Ph.D., our team brings decades of clinical experience in psychiatric medication management and therapy. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood instability, we create personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs—not just your symptoms.

Our approach integrates the latest advancements in mental health, including genetic testing and computer-based assessments, to determine the safest and most effective treatment for you. We understand that each person’s path to emotional wellness looks different, and we’ll guide you through that journey with professionalism, warmth, and confidentiality.

We’re proud to serve patients across Oakland and the greater East Bay, providing care that’s both clinically advanced and deeply personal. Our goal is simple: to help you feel like yourself again—calm, focused, and in control of your life.

Get the Help You Deserve. Feel Like Yourself Again—evidence-Based Psychiatric Care with a Human Touch. Contact us now.

Need a Psychiatrist in Oakland?

If you’ve been searching for an experienced, approachable psychiatrist in Oakland, you’ve come to the right place. At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we understand how mental health challenges can affect every part of your life—your work, your relationships, your energy, and your sense of peace. That’s why we’ve built our practice around one guiding principle: effective psychiatric care begins with genuine connection.

Our Oakland patients choose us because we take the time to listen before we act. Every treatment plan begins with a comprehensive evaluation that considers your medical history, lifestyle, and emotional needs. From there, we collaborate with you to find the best course of action—whether that includes medication management, individual therapy, or a combination of both.

We treat a wide range of conditions, including:

Depression and anxiety disorders that limit focus, motivation, or joy.
ADHD and attention difficulties that interfere with productivity.
Bipolar disorder and mood swings that cause emotional highs and lows.
OCD, trauma, and PTSD which can feel isolating or overwhelming.
Insomnia and sleep disturbances often accompany mental health challenges.

Our care extends to adults, adolescents, and families throughout Oakland, offering both in-person sessions and secure telehealth appointments for maximum flexibility. Whether you prefer to meet in our Bay Area office or online, you’ll receive the same attentive, evidence-based care that defines Blue Sky Psychiatry.

We believe lasting mental wellness comes from more than just medication—it’s built on trust, insight, and collaboration. Together, we’ll help you uncover what’s been holding you back and develop strategies to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Learn more about our psychiatry services and take the first step toward emotional balance today.

Why Oakland Residents Trust Our Psychiatry Experts

For more than two decades, Blue Sky Psychiatry has been a leading name in psychiatric care for Oakland residents who value thoughtful, science-based treatment grounded in empathy. Our patients trust us because we don’t just treat diagnoses—we treat people.

Our team includes a board-certified psychiatrist, a psychiatric physician assistant, and a licensed psychologist, each bringing a distinct perspective to the treatment process. Together, they offer an integrated approach to care that combines medical precision, clinical psychology, and compassionate communication.

We understand that effective psychiatric care depends on both the science and the art of medicine. The science comes from staying current with the latest research, technology, and diagnostic tools—including genetic testing to help identify which medications are most compatible with your body’s unique chemistry. The art comes from building trust, listening deeply, and treating every patient with respect and understanding.

At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we also believe that coordinated care produces the best results. When appropriate, we work closely with your primary care doctor, therapist, or family to ensure that your mental health support is seamless and aligned with your goals.

Our reputation across Oakland and the East Bay is built on reliability, discretion, and genuine results. Whether you’re beginning your first psychiatric evaluation or seeking a long-term mental health partner, you’ll find our team approachable, responsive, and invested in your well-being.

Get the Help You Deserve. Feel Like Yourself Again. Contact us today.

Comprehensive Psychiatry Services in Oakland

At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we offer a full spectrum of psychiatry and therapy services designed to help patients across Oakland find relief, balance, and renewed purpose. Every plan we create is grounded in evidence, tailored to your needs, and delivered with compassion.

Our Services Include:

Psychiatric Medication Management
We specialize in safe, effective, and collaborative medication management. Your provider will work closely with you to monitor progress, adjust dosages when needed, and ensure your treatment supports both short-term relief and long-term stability.
Individual Therapy
We provide a supportive, judgment-free environment where you can explore underlying thoughts, patterns, and emotions. Our therapy sessions help you develop coping tools that promote resilience and emotional clarity.
Couples and Family Therapy
Emotional health doesn’t exist in isolation. Our family and couples therapy services help you improve communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen relationships impacted by stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Children and teens face unique developmental, emotional, and academic pressures. Our clinicians are skilled in identifying early signs of behavioral or mood disorders and designing family-centered treatment plans that encourage healthy growth and functioning.
Telehealth Psychiatry Across California
For busy professionals or those who prefer privacy, we offer secure online appointments. Our telepsychiatry services give Oakland residents convenient access to expert care without the commute—ideal for maintaining consistency in your treatment wherever you are.

No matter where you are in your mental health journey, we’re here to guide you with integrity, compassion, and the highest standard of psychiatric care.

Explore our psychiatry service page to learn how we combine advanced medical knowledge with a human-centered approach to help you thrive.

Where We Work in Oakland: Neighborhoods & Areas We Serve

At Blue Sky Psychiatry – Berkeley, we’re proud to serve patients throughout Oakland, CA, and nearby East Bay communities. We understand that access to trusted psychiatric care is essential, which is why we offer both in-person sessions and telehealth appointments designed to fit your lifestyle.

Our Oakland-area patients come from diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique pace and personality. Wherever you are, our compassionate team is just a short drive—or video call—away.

Rockridge: A vibrant, family-oriented neighborhood close to the Berkeley border. Many of our Rockridge patients appreciate our balanced approach to psychiatry that combines structure, understanding, and flexibility.
Temescal: Known for its creativity and energy, Temescal residents often seek our therapy and medication management services to maintain focus, productivity, and calm amidst busy lives.
Montclair: Nestled in the Oakland Hills, Montclair offers peace, perfect for reflection. We support many Montclair patients seeking to manage anxiety, mood changes, or the stress of daily demands.
Lake Merritt: For professionals, students, and families in this central Oakland hub, our telehealth psychiatry services make it easy to stay consistent with care, even with a full schedule.
Jack London Square: Residents and business owners in this lively waterfront district often turn to our evidence-based treatment to manage work-life stress and emotional fatigue.
Piedmont Avenue & Uptown Oakland: These connected neighborhoods attract those who value accessible, high-quality mental health care near downtown. We make it simple to integrate care into your routine without disrupting your day.

Our local familiarity and commitment to the Oakland community mean you’ll always receive care that’s not just effective, but grounded in understanding your environment and daily realities.

Get the Help You Deserve. Feel Like Yourself Again—evidence-Based Psychiatric Care with a Human Touch. Contact us today.

Common Mental Health Challenges We Help Address in Oakland

Life in Oakland can be vibrant and fulfilling—but it can also be demanding. From career pressure to family transitions and academic challenges, stress can affect your mood, focus, and overall quality of life. Our team at Blue Sky Psychiatry helps patients navigate these realities with personalized psychiatric and therapeutic support.

We treat a full range of conditions and emotional concerns, including:

Depression and Low Mood – When sadness, lack of motivation, or hopelessness begin to take over, we help you regain emotional stability and reconnect with meaning and joy.
Anxiety Disorders – Whether you’re managing chronic worry, panic attacks, or social anxiety, our clinicians offer proven strategies and medication options that promote calm and confidence.
ADHD and Focus Difficulties – We help both adults and adolescents improve concentration, organization, and performance with a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle strategies.
Bipolar Disorder – With careful monitoring and long-term management, we support you in achieving mood balance and preventing disruptive mood swings.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Our evidence-based treatments target obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, helping you regain control and freedom in your daily life.
Trauma and PTSD – We provide a safe, supportive space to process trauma using compassionate, trauma-informed methods that foster healing and resilience.
Insomnia and Sleep Disorders – We address both the mental and physical components of poor sleep, helping you restore a healthy rest pattern that supports emotional stability.
Grief and Loss – Life transitions and loss can leave deep emotional impacts; our therapy and psychiatric support guide you toward peace and acceptance.
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety – For new parents struggling after childbirth, we offer specialized care to restore balance and confidence in this new life chapter.
Relationship and Family Challenges – Emotional strain within relationships can intensify stress. Our couples and family therapy services strengthen communication and connection.

No matter what challenge you’re facing, our mission is the same: to help you feel empowered, supported, and equipped with the tools to live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Learn more about our psychiatry services and take the first step toward healing with our experienced Oakland psychiatry team.

Serving Oakland for Over 20 Years – Local Psychiatric Experts You Can Rely On

For more than two decades, Blue Sky Psychiatry has been a trusted name in mental health care for individuals and families across Oakland, CA, and the greater East Bay. Our long-standing presence in the community reflects our unwavering commitment to compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

From the beginning, our mission has been simple yet profound: to help every patient achieve lasting emotional well-being and balance through personalized, professional, and human-centered care.

Over the past 20 years, we’ve guided countless patients through life’s most challenging moments—helping them overcome depression, manage anxiety, regulate mood disorders, and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Whether you’re just beginning your mental health journey or seeking a new provider who truly listens and understands, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Our Legacy of Compassion and Clinical Excellence

At Blue Sky Psychiatry, our longevity isn’t just about years of service—it’s about the relationships we’ve built and the trust we’ve earned. We’ve grown alongside the Oakland community, adapting to changing needs and staying current with the latest psychiatric research and treatment approaches.

Our team includes board-certified psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and licensed psychologists, each with advanced training in diagnosing, treating, and managing complex mental health conditions. But beyond credentials, we’re known for our genuine compassion, approachable manner, and commitment to making every patient feel seen and heard.

Whether you’re an Oakland professional balancing career and family, a college student managing academic stress, or a parent navigating emotional changes, we tailor your treatment plan to fit your goals and your life—not the other way around.

Why Oakland Trusts Blue Sky Psychiatry

Two Decades of Dedicated Service: We’ve been helping patients in the Oakland area since before telehealth became mainstream, offering consistent, high-quality care both in-person and online.
Personalized, Research-Based Care: Every treatment plan is guided by clinical research and customized for each patient’s needs, ensuring effectiveness and safety.
Comprehensive Services Under One Roof: From medication management and psychotherapy to holistic approaches and lifestyle guidance, we provide an integrated model of care.
Local Expertise, Global Perspective: With deep roots in Oakland and ongoing professional collaboration nationwide, we offer the best of local connection and world-class psychiatric insight.
A Safe, Supportive Space: We know that reaching out for help can be hard. Our environment—both in person and virtual—is built to make you feel welcome, respected, and cared for.

For 20 years and counting, we’ve remained committed to one goal: helping you find peace of mind, emotional clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

If you’ve been searching for experienced psychiatric care you can rely on, Blue Sky Psychiatry is your trusted partner in mental wellness.

Let’s take the next step together. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

What to Do If You Notice Signs of Mental Health Concerns

Recognizing the early signs of mental health challenges—whether in yourself, a loved one, or a tenant—is an important first step toward healing. At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we often remind our Oakland patients that emotional well-being deserves the same level of attention and care as physical health. Just as you’d visit a doctor for persistent pain, you should seek help when emotional distress affects your daily life.

Recognize the Warning Signs

Emotional and behavioral changes can appear gradually or suddenly. Paying attention to these early warning signs can help prevent symptoms from worsening over time. Common indicators include:

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emotional numbness
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Increased irritability, anger, or mood swings
Withdrawal from family, friends, or social activities
Changes in sleep patterns—sleeping too much or too little
Appetite changes, weight loss, or weight gain
Excessive worry, panic attacks, or racing thoughts
Loss of interest in work, hobbies, or responsibilities
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or failure
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you notice any of these symptoms—especially those related to safety or self-harm—it’s important to seek immediate help. In emergencies, always call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate assistance.

Take Supportive, Compassionate Action

If you or someone close to you shows signs of emotional distress, know that help is available and recovery is possible. You don’t have to face it alone. Here’s what to do:

Start with a Gentle Conversation – Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgment. Sometimes, simply feeling heard can bring comfort and clarity.
Encourage Professional Support – Suggest speaking with a psychiatrist, therapist, or mental health provider who can evaluate symptoms and offer treatment options.
Avoid Dismissing or Minimizing Feelings – Mental health concerns are valid medical issues, not personal weaknesses. Compassion goes a long way.
Set Boundaries and Offer Resources – It’s okay to guide loved ones toward professional help rather than trying to fix everything yourself.
Consider a Psychiatric Evaluation – A comprehensive evaluation from our team at Blue Sky Psychiatry can help identify underlying causes, clarify diagnosis, and create a clear treatment path.
Stay Consistent – Healing takes time. Support ongoing treatment, encourage therapy attendance, and celebrate progress along the way.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Delaying mental health treatment can allow symptoms to deepen, affecting work, relationships, and overall quality of life. Early intervention provides several advantages:

Better treatment outcomes through timely diagnosis and management
Reduced symptom severity before patterns become chronic
Improved coping skills that support long-term stability
Higher overall quality of life—mentally, emotionally, and socially

At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we create individualized care plans designed to meet each patient where they are. Whether symptoms are new, recurring, or long-standing, our team helps you build the insight and resilience needed to move forward with confidence.

If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling “counts” as a mental health concern, trust your instincts—it’s always okay to ask for help. Reaching out early can make all the difference.

You’re not alone, and help is closer than you think. Schedule a confidential consultation today.

Patient Testimonials

Joel Crohn, the author of Mixed Matches is in private practice here in the east bay.. He is truly an expert at interfaith therapy.

Berkeley Parents Network

Joel Crohn makes us laugh and then cry over the misunderstandings that develop in cross-cultural relationships–and then provides useful guidelines for couples to work out their relationships.

Monica McGoldrick, MSW Director of the Multicultural Family Institute.

Mixed Matches offers good advice for dealing with family members & friends when marrying someone of a different race or culture. The book is a must read for any individual involved in or considering a relationship/marriage with someone of a different race. Keep it as a guide. I love it.

D. Dominguez Amazon Review

Beyond the Chuppah is a much needed book that combines proven research on marital relationships with special insights on Jewish belief systems and very sound in terms of what really helps couples save and improve their marriages…this book is a lifesaver and truly a mitzvah.

Celia Falicov, Ph.D. Past President of American Family Therapy Academy

Dr. Joel Crohn is really good. At least call him and talk to him. He's good with teens and with families. Berkeley Parents Network

Berkeley Parents Network

FAQs About Psychiatrists in Oakland

When you or a loved one is navigating emotional or psychological challenges, it’s normal to have questions about what psychiatry involves, how treatment works, and what to expect. Our team at Blue Sky Psychiatry has compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from our Oakland patients and families.

1. What does a psychiatrist do, and how are they different from a therapist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Unlike therapists or psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe and manage medications in addition to providing psychotherapy.
At Blue Sky Psychiatry, our psychiatrist, physician assistant, and psychologist work together to combine the best of both worlds—medical expertise and therapeutic insight—to ensure each patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their needs.
Learn more about our psychiatry services here.

2. When should I see a psychiatrist?

You should consider seeing a psychiatrist if you experience persistent emotional distress, anxiety, depression, mood changes, sleep problems, or difficulty managing daily life. Many people also seek psychiatric help for conditions like ADHD, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or after major life events such as grief or trauma.
If your symptoms interfere with relationships, work, or your ability to function, scheduling an evaluation can help identify underlying causes and get you on the path to relief.

3. What happens during a psychiatric evaluation?

Your first visit with our Oakland psychiatry team is a comprehensive evaluation lasting about 60–90 minutes. During this session, your provider will review your medical and mental health history, discuss your current concerns, and explore your goals for treatment.
We take the time to listen carefully and understand your full story—because effective care begins with trust and collaboration.
Afterward, your psychiatrist will recommend a personalized plan that may include therapy, medication management, or both, depending on your needs.

4. Do psychiatrists only prescribe medication?

No. While psychiatrists are experts in medication management, many—especially at Blue Sky Psychiatry—also provide therapy and holistic treatment strategies.
We believe in combining science and the art of medicine, offering both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to support the mind and body together. Our approach emphasizes balanced, evidence-based care rather than over-reliance on medication.

5. How does medication management work?

Medication management is an ongoing process where we monitor your response, adjust dosages as needed, and ensure that your treatment is safe and effective.
At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we also offer genetic testing to identify how your body may respond to certain medications, reducing trial and error and improving treatment outcomes.
Each session includes open communication—you’ll always understand what’s being prescribed and why.

6. What types of mental health conditions do you treat?

Our Oakland psychiatry team treats a broad range of conditions, including:

Depression and mood disorders
Anxiety, panic, and phobias
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Bipolar disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Insomnia and sleep difficulties
Relationship and family challenges
Adjustment disorders, grief, and stress-related concerns

We also provide child and adolescent psychiatric services, recognizing that early intervention can make a lifelong difference.

7. Is psychiatric treatment confidential?

Absolutely. All sessions and records are strictly confidential in accordance with state and federal privacy laws (HIPAA).
We value your trust and take confidentiality seriously. At Blue Sky Psychiatry, privacy is not just a policy—it’s part of the compassionate, respectful care we provide to every patient.

8. Can psychiatry be done through telehealth in California?

Yes. We proudly offer secure telepsychiatry appointments throughout California, including Oakland and surrounding communities.
Telehealth allows you to connect with our licensed professionals from the comfort of your home—ideal for patients with busy schedules, mobility concerns, or those who prefer virtual care.
Our telepsychiatry sessions maintain the same level of privacy and clinical excellence as in-person visits.

9. How long does treatment usually last?

The duration of psychiatric treatment depends on your individual situation and goals. Some patients find relief after a few months, while others benefit from longer-term care to support ongoing stability and growth.
At Blue Sky Psychiatry, we view healing as a journey, not a race. We’ll check in regularly, track progress together, and adjust your treatment plan as your needs evolve—ensuring long-term success and resilience.

10. How can I get started with Blue Sky Psychiatry in Oakland?

Taking the first step toward mental wellness is simple. You can request an appointment online or call our Bay Area office at (510) 545-9600.
During your first visit, we’ll discuss your concerns, outline a personalized plan, and help you begin your path to recovery. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood instability, our caring providers are here to guide you.

Take the first step toward feeling like yourself again. Contact us today.

We Proudly Serve Oakland and Surrounding Areas

At Blue Sky Psychiatry – Berkeley, we are proud to provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to patients throughout Oakland, CA, and neighboring communities across the East Bay. We understand the importance of accessible, high-quality mental health services close to home, and our team is committed to helping you and your family achieve emotional balance and wellness.

Surrounding East Bay Communities

In addition to Oakland, we extend our services to neighboring cities, ensuring that quality psychiatric care is within reach for the entire East Bay region, including:

Berkeley – Our base of operations, offering convenient access to therapy and medication management for residents.
Emeryville – Supporting urban professionals with telehealth and in-person services for stress, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Alameda – Providing holistic psychiatric care for families, adults, and adolescents in a supportive environment.
Albany, El Cerrito, and Piedmont – Delivering personalized treatment for emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges.
Lafayette, Orinda, and Moraga – Combining medication management, psychotherapy, and collaborative care for long-term mental wellness.
Walnut Creek and Kensington – Ensuring patients in suburban East Bay areas have access to trusted psychiatric services without traveling far.

No matter where you live in Oakland or the surrounding East Bay, Blue Sky Psychiatry is committed to delivering accessible, comprehensive, and compassionate care. We understand that each patient’s situation is unique, and we strive to create treatment plans that fit your lifestyle, schedule, and mental health needs.

Your journey to mental wellness starts here. Schedule your appointment now.

Get Trusted Psychiatry Services in Oakland Today

Your mental health is important, and taking the first step toward professional support can be life-changing. At Blue Sky Psychiatry – Berkeley, we offer compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for individuals, adolescents, and families throughout Oakland and the surrounding East Bay.

Whether you’re seeking psychiatric medication management, individual therapy, or family and couples counseling, our team provides personalized treatment plans designed to help you:

Regain emotional balance and clarity
Improve focus, energy, and productivity.
Strengthen relationships and communication.
Build long-term resilience and mental wellness.

With over 20 years of experience serving the Oakland community, our board-certified psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants, and licensed psychologists are here to guide you every step of the way.

Get the compassionate, evidence-based care you deserve. Reach out now.

Disclaimer:

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed mental health professional or physician regarding any mental health concerns. In case of a mental health emergency, including thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline immediately.

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