Find a psychiatrist in San Luis Obispo, CA — covered by insurance
Top psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo, CA accepting new patients
Mental health support in San Luis Obispo is accessible through Headway's network of 958 licensed providers offering virtual and in-person sessions. With over 70+ insurance plans accepted nationally and copays estimated between $0-50 per session, care in neighborhoods like Downtown, Foothill, and Laguna Lake is affordable and flexible. Providers specialize in talk therapy and medication management across conditions including anxiety, depression, and more.
Dr. Aw primary interest is the intersection between mental and physical health. Dr. Aw’s philosophy, one does not exist outside of the other. Furthermore, Depression and anxiety in patients who are also suffering from medical issues feels significantly worse, and it is his goal to get patients on the road to recovery.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a background in nursing and mental health care. I focus on medication management with a supportive, real-life approach. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD.
I believe you should feel heard, understood, and involved in your care. My goal is to create a comfortable, judgment-free space where we can work together to find what truly helps you feel better and function at your best. I also incorporate brief therapeutic support alongside medication when it’s needed.
I’m a board-certified psychiatrist who works with adolescents through older adults, and I bring both medical and therapeutic training into my work. In addition to psychiatry, I’ve completed advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which allows me to look beyond symptoms and explore the deeper emotional patterns shaping your experience.
I specialize in mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, ADHD, and women’s mental health, including the unique challenges that come with life transitions. Whether you’re navigating longstanding patterns or a more recent shift, I aim to create a space that feels warm, affirming, and grounded in real understanding.
I realize that most of us could use support, especially during times of overwhelming challenges in our personal and professional lives. Life can be complex, with significant obligations and expectations from family, friends, and ourselves. When these challenges become too much, it’s normal to start doubting our ability to manage our affairs and interactions. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction go unaddressed, these feelings can develop into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment—and it’s at this point that many recognize a need for help.
Nice to meet you!
If you’ve been dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, sleep problems, or mood swings, you may feel worn down, stuck, or unsure what to try next. You want relief, but also clear answers, practical options, and someone who takes your concerns seriously. I work with young adults, adults, and seniors who are ready to better understand what’s happening and take steady steps toward feeling more balanced and in control of their mental health.
About our psychiatrists serving San Luis Obispo, CA
- 99%Anxiety
- 99%Depression
- 86%Bipolar disorder
- 86%PTSD
- 86%ADD/ADHD
- 99%Aetna
- 95%Cigna
- 89%Carelon Behavioral Health
- 85%Anthem Blue Cross California
- 59%United Healthcare
- 98%English
- 9%Spanish
- 4%Tagalog
- 4%Igbo
- 3%Hindi
- 90%Online only
- 10%In-person or online
- 72%Woman
- 28%Man
- 90%Nurse Practitioner
- 9%Medical Doctor
- 1%Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
- 96%Individual therapy
- 17%Family therapy
- 7%Child or adolescent therapy
- 6%Couples therapy
Frequently asked questions
Find the right psychiatrist for you
Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Psychiatrist in San Luis Obispo
Finding psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo starts with understanding the type of care you want to explore. Psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and manage medication over time. Therapists provide talk therapy and support through approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and other methods. If you are looking for care related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, or medication management, review each psychiatrist’s listed specialties and training to see how closely they match your needs.
In a smaller city like San Luis Obispo, local psychiatry options may be more limited than in larger California markets. Virtual appointments can expand your choices while still giving you access to licensed psychiatrists in California. Psychiatric medication management visits are often shorter and less frequent than therapy sessions, though some psychiatrists also offer therapy. Some people also work with both a therapist and a prescriber. As you compare profiles, look at availability, appointment format, session structure, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Bios can also help you understand a psychiatrist’s communication style before you book.
Psychiatry in San Luis Obispo can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and see your estimated price before your first appointment. Headway helps you search for psychiatrists who match your preferences, take your insurance, and are accepting new patients. You can compare bios, filter by virtual or in-person care, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.
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