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Best Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists in San Francisco

Written by Andrew Le, MD

Updated December 24, 2024

Introduction to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in San Francisco

Overview of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders in children and teenagers.

This field addresses a wide range of issues, including developmental disorders, behavioral problems, mood disorders, and anxiety, tailored specifically to younger patients.

The importance of this specialty cannot be overstated, as early intervention and treatment can significantly impact a young person's development, academic performance, and future well-being.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in San Francisco

San Francisco, known for its progressive healthcare system, offers a robust network of child and adolescent psychiatric services.

The city's diverse population and unique urban environment present both challenges and opportunities for mental health professionals specializing in youth care.

San Francisco's commitment to mental health awareness and support creates a conducive environment for accessing quality psychiatric care for children and adolescents.


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List of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists in San Francisco

Dr. Robert Friend

Dr. Robert Friend

5.0

San Francisco, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Dr. Robert Friend, a psychiatrist specializing in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, practices in San Francisco, CA. He received his medical education from the University of Southern California and completed his residency and fellowship at Mount Zion Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Friend is board-certified in Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Fluent in English, he holds affiliations with Robert L Friend MD. With a 5.0 star rating, Dr. Friend brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his practice.

Robert L Friend MD

Psychiatry (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology)

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology)

Medical School - University of Southern California, Doctor of Medicine

Los Angeles County+University of Southern California Medical Center, Internship in Internal Medicine

Mount Zion Hospital and Medical Center, Residency in Adult Psychiatry

Mount Zion Hospital and Medical Center, Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis (Psychoanalysis)

English

3626 Sacramento St, #6 San Francisco, CA

Psychiatrist

Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Henry Eric Bender

Dr. Henry Eric Bender

N/A

San Francisco, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Dr. Henry Eric Bender, a psychiatrist based in San Francisco, CA, specializes in psychotherapy for adults, child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. He completed his medical education at various prestigious institutions, including the University of California, San Diego, University of Pennsylvania for his internship, and University of California, San Francisco for his residency in general psychiatry. Dr. Bender further pursued fellowships in child and adolescent psychiatry at University of California, Los Angeles, and in forensic psychiatry at University of California, Davis. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry, he is affiliated with H. Eric Bender, M.D. Practice. Conducting sessions in English, Dr. Bender's affiliations and networks were not provided.

H. Eric Bender, M.D.

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (Psychiatry and Neurology)

Forensic Psychiatry (Psychiatry and Neurology)

Medical School - University Of California, San Diego

University of Pennsylvania (Internship)

University of California, San Francisco, Residency in General Psychiatry

University of California, Los Angeles, Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

University of California, Davis, Fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry

English

2154 Broderick St San Francisco, CA

Psychotherapist

Psychiatrist

Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Forensic Psychiatrist

Choosing a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist in San Francisco

Understanding Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Definition and scope of the specialty

  • Focus on mental health issues in children and adolescents
  • Importance of early intervention and treatment

Common conditions treated

  • ADHD
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Autism spectrum disorders

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Qualifications and Certifications

  • Board certification in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Additional specializations or fellowships

Experience and Expertise

  • Years of practice
  • Specific areas of focus within child and adolescent psychiatry

Patient Reviews and Ratings

  • Online ratings and testimonials
  • Word-of-mouth recommendations

Location and Accessibility

  • Proximity to home or school
  • Public transportation options in San Francisco

Overview of the Selection Process in San Francisco

Researching Potential Providers

  • Utilizing online directories and professional associations
  • Checking with insurance providers for in-network options

Initial Consultations

  • Importance of meeting with potential psychiatrists
  • Questions to ask during the first appointment

Evaluating Compatibility

  • Assessing communication style and rapport
  • Considering the child's comfort with the psychiatrist

Top-Rated Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists in San Francisco

Dr. Robert Friend

Qualifications and Certifications

  • Board-certified in Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Medical Degree from University of Southern California
  • Residency and Fellowship at Mount Zion Hospital and Medical Center

Patient Satisfaction

  • 5.0-star rating
  • Highly regarded in the field

Practice Details

  • Location: 3626 Sacramento St, #6, San Francisco, CA 94118
  • Languages: English
  • Gender: Male

Dr. Henry Eric Bender

Expertise and Specializations

  • Specializes in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, and Psychotherapy
  • Board-certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry

Educational Background

  • Medical Degree from University of California, San Diego
  • Residency at University of California, San Francisco
  • Fellowships at UCLA and UC Davis

Practice Information

  • Location: 2154 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94115
  • Languages: English
  • Gender: Male

Additional Resources for Finding Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists in San Francisco

Professional Organizations and Directories

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)

  • Provides a directory of certified child and adolescent psychiatrists
  • Offers educational resources for families

California Psychiatric Association

  • Local chapter information
  • Resources for finding psychiatrists in San Francisco

Online Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Zocdoc

  • Platform used by Dr. Robert Friend and Dr. Henry Eric Bender
  • Allows filtering by specialty and location
  • Provides patient reviews and ratings

Healthgrades

  • Comprehensive database of healthcare providers
  • Includes detailed profiles and patient reviews

Local Healthcare Networks

UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital

  • Affiliated child and adolescent psychiatry department
  • Referral services for specialized care

San Francisco Department of Public Health

  • Information on community mental health services
  • Resources for low-income families

Consultation with Primary Care Providers

Pediatricians and Family Doctors

  • Can provide referrals to trusted child and adolescent psychiatrists
  • May offer initial screening and guidance

School Counselors and Psychologists

  • May have recommendations for local psychiatrists
  • Can provide insights on specialists who work well with children and adolescents