Kai MacDonald, MD

"Though I have focused my professional practice in psychiatry, I have received training in both Psychiatry and Family Practice, and have considerable training in brain-based medication treatment (psychopharmacology), general medical issues (I served as the assistant director of the consult-liaison psychiatry service at UCSD), and psychotherapy (I have extensive training in short-term dynamic therapy). In the mental health field, I have particular experience in addiction (as medical director of an outpatient substance abuse program), mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and ADD/ADHD. I have extensive experience as a QME (qualified medical examiner) for fitness for duty examinations, and have served as an expert witness in forensic psychiatry. I am a board certified Addiction Psychiatrist. 

Furthermore, at the University of California, San Diego, I have participated as an investigator in dozens of clinical research trials in adult ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and anxiety. I was a principal investigator in the UCSD Oxytocin Clinical Research Program. I have also authored or co-authored peer-reviewed articles on ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, and anxiety, and I am actively involved in teaching student doctors and other community professionals on these subjects. With two other colleagues, I designed and serve as a faculty member in a nationally recognized program that teaches physicians in practice about healthy relationships in health care."

"My psychiatric practice is based on two fundamentals: a personal relationship and state-of-the art, full-service care.  If you want personalized care, if your time is at a premium, or if your situation is complex, we may be a good fit.

1. Relationship First. First and foremost, I believe that a healthy, caring relationship with a doctor that knows you-as a person-is the most important aspect of care. As such, I make our relationship a priority in your treatment, and pride myself on having a “first-name practice”. I know all my patients, schedule our appointments myself, and will recognize you when you call.

2. State-of-the-art, Whole-Person Treatment: A second fundamental aspect of my practice is evidence-based, whole-person psychiatric treatment, including both medication and non-medication treatments (including alternative treatments, psychotherapy and lifestyle interventions). I have a number of areas of unique expertise (see “about Dr. MacDonald and “Dr. MacDonald’s publications“), and find many many patients appreciate the consistency and simplicity of the “single treater” approach. I work hard to stay abreast of the latest scientific research, medical information, and therapies to help you to be your best, and have been recognized for this expertise and zeal, both by the community and the university training program. If you need treatment I do not offer (i.e. Transcranial magnetic stimulation or TMS, specialized relationship therapy, intensive addiction treatment), my long experience in the community ensures we will partner with San Diego’s best in these areas."