Chace Shaw, M.D.

I am a psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in Menlo Park, California. What initially drew me to psychiatry was its unique ability to bring together the biological, psychological, relational, and existential dimensions of human experience. I have long been fascinated by the ways in which our histories, relationships, emotional lives, and patterns of thought shape who we become, as well as by the remarkable capacity people have for growth and change.

One of the aspects of psychiatry I value most is the opportunity to spend time truly getting to know people. Effective treatment requires more than understanding symptoms or diagnoses alone. It often involves developing a deeper appreciation of a person's life story, relationships, strengths, struggles, and aspirations, and tailoring treatment thoughtfully to the individual.

As both a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, I integrate psychiatric evaluation, medication treatment when appropriate, and depth-oriented psychotherapy. Some patients seek consultation regarding diagnosis or medications, while others come primarily for psychotherapy. Many benefit from an approach that combines both perspectives. My goal is always to develop a treatment plan that reflects each person's unique needs and goals.

In addition to my private practice, I serve as Adjunct Clinical Faculty in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, where I remain involved in the teaching and supervision of early-career psychiatrists. I value my continued connection to the academic community and find that teaching continually enriches my clinical work.

Training and Education

Harvard University - B.A.

UCSF School of Medicine - M.D.

Stanford Adult Psychiatry Residency Program

San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis - Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Training Program

Barre Center / Harvard Medical School - Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy Certification

International Neuropsychoanalysis Society - Clinical Fellow

American College of Lifestyle Medicine – Training in Lifestyle Psychiatry

Professional Appointments

Adjunct Clinical Faculty, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine

My Approach

My approach integrates depth-oriented psychotherapy with advanced psychiatric care. Psychological symptoms often emerge within broader emotional, relational, and biological contexts, and I believe treatment is most effective when all of these dimensions are considered together. Depending on the situation, treatment may involve psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle interventions, or a combination of approaches.

I value careful diagnosis and evidence-based treatment, and I am equally interested in understanding the meaning symptoms may hold within a person's life. Exploring these questions often helps illuminate long-standing patterns and create opportunities for lasting change.