Dr. Michael E. Lara is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience in diverse clinical settings, including inpatient and outpatient care. He specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, cross-cultural psychiatry, and adult mood disorders. Renowned for his expertise in medical documentation, case management, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Lara is also proficient in telepsychiatry platforms. Licensed to practice in California, he combines precision, professionalism, and a patient-centered approach to deliver high-quality care.
Dr. Lara completed his residency in psychiatry at Stanford Hospital and Clinics after earning his medical degree from the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. He also holds a Master’s Degree in English and American Literature from Harvard University, where he was a PhD candidate, and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Biological Sciences from Stanford University. His extensive educational background complements his clinical expertise, enriching his ability to address complex mental health cases.
Throughout his career, Dr. Lara has held various leadership and clinical roles. As a private practice psychiatrist in Belmont, California, he conducts comprehensive evaluations, develops individualized treatment plans, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to address complex mental health needs. Previously, as Medical Director and Chief Psychiatrist for Gardner Family Care Corporation, he oversaw clinical operations, supervised multidisciplinary teams, and specialized in medico-legal and disability evaluations. Earlier in his career, as a staff psychiatrist at Community Solutions, he provided psychiatric care to English and Spanish-speaking patients, focusing on medication management and holistic patient care.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Lara has been an educator, serving as teaching faculty for the Institute for Brain Potential and as an adjunct clinical faculty member at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. His academic roles reflect his commitment to advancing mental health education and sharing his expertise with future clinicians.
Dr. Lara’s professional accomplishments are underscored by his skills in medical evaluations, disability assessments, and legal documentation. Fluent in Spanish, he is committed to meeting the needs of diverse populations with precision and cultural sensitivity. His dedication to clinical excellence, extensive expertise in psychiatric care, and strong academic foundation make him a trusted provider and educator in the mental health field.
