Elaine Liu, MD

After 12 years in full time private practice, whether doing psychotherapy or medication management, sitting with patients feels as alive as ever. What I have discovered is an ever-deepening understanding of the human condition in its many beautiful flavors. Whether you are navigating a neurodivergent brain, experiencing new motherhood, trying to find balance in your startup, or having a mid-life crisis, I have seen it all. I am direct in my feedback balanced by a compassionate and informed perspective. Together, we examine and understand experiences in new ways and co-create narratives that decrease suffering in a lasting way. It can be like a dance to figure out an individual’s changing needs. I offer a holding space to let the next area of growth unfold. We observe together evidence of what is true in each session. I am constantly learning from my patients and integrating it into my understanding of what it means to be human. I then offer my experience and frameworks to find insight. I show up from a place of curiosity and wonder about where the session will take us. There will be pointed questions guided by years of experience alongside laughter stemming from the joy of understanding, and, almost always, insights that will last a lifetime.

Education & Credentials

• B.S. Biology, Stanford University
• M.D., UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School
• Psychiatry Residency, Stanford Hospital
• Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
• Licensed to practice medicine in California

My Philosophy

My approach is integrative because you need different tools at different times for each therapy journey and there is no one orientation that is the most effective, only effective therapists and clinicians. My goal is to be a more effective catalyst for positive change through personalized psychiatric care that may require a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

I provide specialized treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions and life challenges. I am comfortable working with individuals of all ethnicities and backgrounds.

Mental Health Conditions

• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, PTSD, OCD, specific phobias)
• Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
• Addiction & Recovery

Life Challenges & Support Areas

• Student Mental Health
• Cultural Issues
• Women’s Health Issues
• Relationship Problems
• Grief Counseling
• Work and Career Issues
• Stress Management
• Conflict Resolution

I have specialized training in anxiety disorders, sleep/insomnia, student mental health, and women’s health issues.

Medications, while a useful tool, are not the source of true positive change. Real change happens when an individual makes an internally motivated commitment to confront difficult thoughts, beliefs, and feelings.

My practice is built on:

• Integrative Approach: Combining psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for comprehensive care
• Collaborative Partnership: Working together to understand your unique psychological needs
• Personalized Treatment: Developing individualized plans that address your specific situation
• Supportive Environment: Creating a safe space for exploring difficult emotions and experiences
• Coordinated Care: Collaborating with your existing therapist when applicable

Take the first step toward better mental health. Contact me to schedule a consultation.

Contact Information

• Phone: +1 415-860-3690
• Email: elaine@elaineliu.com
• Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location 2021 Fillmore St #2171
San Francisco, CA 94115

Pricing Please contact me to discuss pricing options.

Emergency Contact If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.