Phillip Van, MD

Dr. Phillip Van is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who brings curiosity, compassion, and a thoughtful, individualized approach to his work with clients. Approachable and deeply interested in understanding people as individuals, Dr. Van strives to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment where clients can speak openly, better understand themselves, and feel supported as they navigate life's challenges.

Dr. Van grew up in a multicultural household where education, healthcare, community, and helping others were deeply valued. From an early age, he was taught that having the ability to help others also brings a responsibility to do so. That philosophy, along with years spent volunteering and working with people across different stages of life, ultimately helped guide him toward medicine and psychiatry.

Dr. Van studied Biochemistry with a Medical Emphasis at the University of California, Riverside before earning his medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. He completed his psychiatry residency at Authority Health and pursued advanced training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School. His training also includes Child and Adolescent Psychoanalysis through the Washington-Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis. Additionally, he has completed specialized training in suicide prevention, population health and health equity, and anti-racism and social justice.

What initially drew Dr. Van to psychiatry was the opportunity to understand people in a deeper and more holistic way. He believes that a diagnosis is only one part of a person's story and seeks to understand the individual behind the symptoms—their experiences, relationships, strengths, challenges, environment, and hopes for the future.

Dr. Van takes an individualized and collaborative approach to care grounded in evidence-based practices. Along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches, he considers how development, relationships, family dynamics, and past experiences can influence the way people think, feel, and behave in the present. His goal is not only to help clients feel better, but also to help them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and recognize the strengths they already possess.

Central to Dr. Van's approach is creating a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves. He recognizes that seeking support can feel intimidating, particularly for someone beginning the process for the first time. He approaches each conversation with curiosity and kindness, meeting clients where they are and working collaboratively to determine what feels meaningful and appropriate for them.

The relationships he builds with clients and families continue to inspire Dr. Van's work. He finds it deeply rewarding to witness someone gain greater insight into themselves, develop confidence, or discover a path forward after feeling stuck. He believes every person has a story that deserves to be understood and values the opportunity to support clients through meaningful growth over time.

Outside of work, Dr. Van enjoys spending time with his family and playing with their dog. A self-described foodie, he loves discovering new restaurants and foods and even planning travels around memorable meals. He also enjoys spending time in nature and practicing origami, which gives him an opportunity to slow down, stay creative, and recharge.