
Megan Crochet, MD
I provide a therapeutic medication management visit, which incorporates therapeutic techniques tailored to the individual patient's needs while adjusting medication doses. My goal is to help patients manage their symptoms while working towards, over time, uncovering the root causes. This comprehensive process helps to empower my patients and provides hope and acceptance of their psychiatric challenges. If indicated, I may believe that additional therapy is also needed and recommend that you bring a therapist into your care team to provide the best outcome.
I am board certified in Adult Psychiatry and have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I attended medical school at Drexel University College of Medicine and completed my training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, followed by Tulane University School of Medicine, where I was a chief resident. I have worked in hospital systems, private practice, and most recently telemedicine.
When not practicing, I enjoy all things water, cooking, and spending time with my daughter and dog.

Michael Locher, MD
My approach to medication management is that it is one tool to be used in the broader context of a multi-modal evidence-based treatment approach that draws upon psychotherapy, mindfulness skills, Buddhist psychology, psychedelic (AKA "mind manifesting") studies, yoga philosophy, and other integrative practices. I understand that healing is an individualized process that cannot unfold without a safe space, and I am dedicated to holding an approachable, empathic space where you can feel empowered to write the next chapter of your life. I have an interest in working with immigrants and LGBTQ+ communities.
I am well versed in treating the full spectrum of mental illness. Having worked on multidisciplinary teams in acute inpatient psychiatric hospital settings, psychiatric emergency rooms, and mental health urgent cares for the better part of 10 years, I am comfortable helping with not just mild to moderate illness, but also the most severe cases of mental illness. I am especially motivated to work with you to maintain stability, avoid hospitalization, and more broadly, to achieve wellness.
I completed Adult Psychiatry Residency Training at Los Angeles County, University of Southern California, where I focused two years of training in conducting Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I received my Bachelor of Science undergraduate degree in 3 years with Phi Beta Kappa honors at the University of Miami, Florida. In medical school at Stony Brook School of Medicine in New York, I was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society while earning my Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. I have held academic appointments at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Western University of Health Sciences, and Ventura Community Memorial Health System Psychiatric Residency Training Program.

Michael Lukowski, MD
I am an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I focus on medication management combined with supportive therapy during initial and follow-up visits. I practice whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
I received my medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine in Reno, NV, before moving to southern California to complete my residency at Loma Linda University. After completing training, I began working with the Southern California Permanente Medical Group in Riverside, CA, where I treated a variety of psychiatric disorders in an outpatient setting. In March of 2020, as the pandemic changed life and medicine forever, I adopted a strictly telepsychiatry role at my clinic. I have also held a staff psychiatrist position as an adult inpatient psychiatrist in Tennessee. I treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders within the adult demographic.

Michael Padua, MD
I am trained and experienced in diagnosing and treating various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and bipolar disorder, with a focus on posttraumatic stress disorder, women's mental health, and cultural psychiatry. I combine my clinical expertise with a passion for working with underserved populations and the LGBTQIA+ population to address mental health needs across various communities.
I am a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and completed my psychiatry residency training at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, IL. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including as an outpatient psychiatrist at a federally qualified health center (FQHC) and as a correctional psychiatrist at the Washoe County Sheriff's Office in Reno, NV. In addition to my clinical work, I have participated in research and education and have co-authored peer-reviewed articles in the fields of psychiatry and biology.

Michelle Ferrara, MD
My path into medicine was inspired by a desire to care for patients in a compassionate and comprehensive way. I was drawn to psychiatry because it focuses on the whole person rather than only the illness. In my work, I take a holistic view of mental health, considering medical conditions, personal history, social determinants of health, support systems, and life goals when guiding care.
I strive to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and comfortable communicating openly. I believe effective mental health care is built on collaboration and trust. My approach centers on understanding each patient's unique experiences and values so that treatment aligns with what matters most to them. I work collaboratively with patients to establish clear treatment goals and develop individualized care plans.
With training in adult psychiatry and additional training in addiction psychiatry, I provide evidence-based care and current pharmacologic treatments. I value partnering with patients on their path toward recovery, recognizing that each person's journey is unique.

Mustafa Taquee, MD
I believe that every patient brings their own mosaic of experiences embedded in a unique story. I understand that building a strong therapeutic relationship through empathy, compassion, trust, and respect is essential. I enjoy taking time to understand my patients' goals, offer psychoeducation, and create a collaborative plan for treatment with the patient. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health treatment, which includes medication management, supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, as well as mind-body medicine techniques. I also have a special interest in psychodynamic therapy, an in-depth therapy modality, which I incorporate in all patient interactions and sessions.
I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. I received my undergraduate degree from Wayne State University in Detroit and completed my medical degree at Oakland University William Beaumont in Rochester, MI. I am a graduate of the Adult Psychiatry Residency Program at St. Mary Mercy Hospital in Livonia, MI, and I have also completed a psychotherapy fellowship through the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute.
Due to the diversity and richness of culture in southeast Michigan, I have experience working with patients from varied backgrounds. I enjoy the challenge such a heterogeneous environment brings and am particularly fond of working with young adults experiencing life transitions. I also have experience working with patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as adolescents and geriatric populations.

Mu Xu, MD
I am a general adult psychiatrist specializing in medication management. I value building strong connections with patients from all walks of life and tailoring treatments to their unique needs. My working style is characterized by attentive listening, detailed follow-up questions, and straightforward communication, fostering a collaborative and empathetic environment.
I obtained my medical doctorate degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and my PhD from New York University, where I also completed my psychiatry residency. I provide medication management for a variety of psychiatric conditions and am licensed to practice in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. I am fluent in English and Mandarin.
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Nicole White, MD
Dr. Nicole White is a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of experience treating adults with mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma-related conditions, and other mental health concerns. She spent nearly a decade in private practice and previously served as Section Chief of Psychiatry at the VA San Diego Healthcare System and Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. White earned her medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and completed residency and fellowship training through the University of Illinois at Chicago and Northwestern University.
Dr. White believes exceptional psychiatric care begins with listening and understanding each person's unique story, strengths, and goals. She fosters a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel respected and actively involved in treatment decisions. Her approach combines evidence-based medication management with supportive psychotherapy tailored to each individual's needs.
Dr. White begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to understand each patient's history, concerns, and goals. She partners with patients to create personalized treatment plans that may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle recommendations, and care coordination. She regularly reviews progress, adjusts treatment as needed, and strives to help patients feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout their care.

Nida Khan, DO
My practice focuses on a holistic, patient-centered approach, rooted in evidence-based practices. I focus on providing medication management during 30-minute visits along with supportive therapy to meet the unique needs of individuals under my care. Occasionally, I may believe that additional therapy is needed and may recommend a therapist be brought into your care team for optimal care.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist starting my post-graduate practice with Talkiatry. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Smith College, earned my medical degree at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed my psychiatry residency training at Northwell Health. During my residency, I was involved in resident leadership and education, serving as academic chief resident during my third year of training.

Nikita Dixon, MD
Dr. Nikita Dixon is a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She has significant outpatient telepsychiatry experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Dixon completed her Psychiatry Residency at Harvard Longwood, her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of California San Diego, and earned her medical degree from Southern Illinois University. She also has advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health and Geriatric Mental Health.
Dr. Dixon values conducting comprehensive evaluations to develop holistic, personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. She strives to create a collaborative and supportive environment where patients feel heard and understood. Her approach integrates multiple therapeutic modalities, when appropriate, to help patients achieve meaningful and lasting progress.
Dr. Dixon begins by gathering information from all areas of a patient’s life to gain a thorough understanding of their background, experiences, and concerns. Based on this assessment, she develops individualized treatment plans that incorporate multiple evidence-based approaches and presents options that align with each patient’s goals, preferences, and overall well-being.
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Patricia Michel-Garrison, DO
I specialize in treating adults aged 18 and over, addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders. My treatment style is patient-centered, emphasizing individualized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. I am known for my holistic approach, integrating both traditional and osteopathic principles to provide comprehensive care. I foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship, promoting open communication and trust with my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist by the American Osteopathic Board of Neurology and Psychiatry (AOBNP) with over a decade of experience in inpatient psychiatry. I completed my undergraduate training in Chemistry in Florida, having moved there from Chicago in 2000, followed by medical school at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). I completed my residency in Psychiatry in Largo, Florida.
Throughout my career, I have remained committed to staying current with the latest advancements in psychiatric care. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental health and well-being through a combination of evidence-based practices and empathetic support.

Phillip Azouz, MD
I provide a relaxed, conversational, and non-judgmental space for patients to reflect on and integrate all aspects of their lives. I believe that vulnerability is key to healing and growth and work with individuals seeking to improve mood, reduce anxiety, enhance sleep, boost attention, or heal from trauma. My approach blends the latest research in medical treatment with insights from psychotherapy and coaching. I specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and personality disorders.
During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive and collaborative evaluation where I take the time to understand their symptoms, challenges, and goals. I foster an open and supportive environment, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized and aligned with each patient's unique needs. My approach integrates evidence-based medication management, psychotherapy techniques, and coaching strategies to help patients achieve their full potential.
I am a board-certified general adult psychiatrist. I earned my medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School, where I was awarded the Albert M. Barret Award for Distinguished Performance in Psychiatry, and completed my psychiatric residency at Florida Atlantic University. Prior to medical school, I obtained my undergraduate degree in economics with honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. My background includes research at the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Center and the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind-Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital. I also worked as a Mental Health Specialist at McLean Psychiatric Hospital.
Find a psychiatrist in Oakland, CA
Finding a psychiatrist in Oakland, CA who is taking new patients can feel like a full-time job. Talkiatry makes it simpler by matching you with a psychiatrist licensed in California who sees you by secure video, from anywhere in the Oakland area.
Because care is online, you are not limited to the few providers with an opening near you. You choose a time that works and meet from home.
How online psychiatry works for Oakland residents
The process is straightforward. You complete a short assessment, get matched with a psychiatrist licensed in California, and meet by secure video. When you share your preferences, such as a provider's specialty or background, we use that to help find a good match.
Your first appointment lasts 60 minutes, giving you room to explain what you are experiencing and build a plan together. Follow-ups usually run about 30 minutes, so your care can adjust as you go.
What a psychiatrist in Oakland can help with
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental health conditions and manage treatment over time. Talkiatry psychiatrists work with people managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as conditions like bipolar disorder, OCD, and PTSD.
If medication is part of your plan, your psychiatrist can prescribe and manage it when clinically appropriate and legally permissible. A prescription is never guaranteed, and some medications may not be available for online prescribing. Your psychiatrist will discuss the options with you.
Therapy may also be part of your care, depending on your needs and availability.
Does insurance cover a psychiatrist in Oakland?
Talkiatry is in-network with major insurers, so many patients pay less than they expect. We verify your coverage during the free assessment, before you schedule your first visit. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan, so it is worth confirming the specifics with your insurance company.
Mental health care in Oakland
Demand for psychiatric care in California far outpaces supply. According to KFF's analysis of federal shortage data, California has 627 designated mental health professional shortage areas. Only about 23.5% of the state's need for mental health practitioners is currently met. Closing that gap would take an estimated 598 more psychiatrists.
Online psychiatry helps expand your options by connecting you with a psychiatrist licensed anywhere in California, rather than limiting you to those with an office near you.
Psychiatry across California
For psychiatrists licensed statewide, visit our California psychiatrist page. You can also explore online care in nearby San Francisco and San Jose.
Start with a free assessment
Getting started is simple. Take our free online assessment, answer a few questions, and get matched with a psychiatrist licensed in California. From there, you can schedule your first video visit, often within days.
Can I go straight to a psychiatrist?

In most cases, yes. Talkiatry does not require a referral to start. You take the free online assessment and get matched with a psychiatrist licensed in California. Some insurance plans still ask for a referral, so check with your insurer first.
What is the 3 month rule in mental health?

There is no official three-month rule in psychiatry. People sometimes use the phrase to describe giving a new medication or routine time to work, which can take several weeks. Your psychiatrist decides follow-up timing based on your treatment and how you respond.
How much does it cost to see a psychiatrist in California?

Your cost depends on your insurance plan. Talkiatry is in-network with major insurers, and we verify your coverage during the free assessment before you schedule. Because plans differ, your out-of-pocket amount is set by your insurer, so confirm the details with them.
Why is it so difficult to see a psychiatrist?

Demand for psychiatric care is high and the number of psychiatrists is limited, especially in shortage areas. That mismatch leads to long waits and full schedules. Online psychiatry helps by connecting you with a psychiatrist licensed anywhere in California, not only those with an office near you.