Adult Psychiatrist, Board Certified

South San Francisco

✅ Accepting New Patients

💼 16 Years Experience

⭐ Highly Recommended

🕰️ Excellent Wait Time

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5.0

Great experience with comprehensive psychiatry and have a patient of Dr. Auza’s for 10 years. Would highly recommend the office and Dr. Auza.

Getting to know Michael Auza, M.D.

Dr. Auza is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. His clinical approach is warm, attentive, and grounded in psychodynamic principles, with a strong commitment to patient comfort and privacy.

As a board-certified, licensed physician, Dr. Auza prescribes medications when appropriate and collaborates closely with patients who are working with—or seeking—psychotherapists. When medication is indicated, he helps patients understand the biological, psychological, and social factors influencing their mental health. His comprehensive evaluations support patients in making informed decisions about their care.

Dr. Auza began his path in medicine at the College of William & Mary, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience with a minor in Biochemistry, building a foundation in the science of how people think and feel. He went on to receive his medical degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, where he had the privilege of serving as Chief Resident.

Focus Areas

LGBTQ+ Issues
Bereavement/Grief
Chronic Illness Adjustment
Self-Esteem Issues
Life Transitions

Mood Swings
Stress Management
Confidence Issues
Bipolar Disorder
Schizophrenia

Panic Attacks
Anxiety
ADHD
PTSD
Depression

Clientele

Young Adults
Neurodivergent

Adults
People with chronic illness

LGBTQ+

Treatment Approaches

Psychodynamic Psychiatry: Utilizes psychoanalytic techniques to understand and treat mental disorders.

Identity

Gender

Male

Languages

English

Insurance Providers

UMR
PHCS MultiPlan
Medicare
Carelon Health
VHP

ComPsych
Kaiser Permanente
Aetna
Cigna

BlueCross BlueShield
Magellan Health
TriWest
MHN

FAQs

1. What is your approach to working with patients?

I bring a compassionate, empathic approach to care, with a steady emphasis on patient comfort and confidentiality. I strive to bring an attuned, thoughtful presence to my work, helping patients deepen their understanding of their symptoms and the broader experiences shaping their lives.

2. How do you integrate medication management?

I view medication management as one piece of a broader, holistic approach to care. If medication may be helpful, we explore that possibility together, discussing what to expect and how it fits with your overall goals. I remain closely involved throughout treatment, providing regular check-ins and adjustments to support your well-being.

3. What kinds of clients do you work with best?

I’m particularly well-suited to working with individuals who appreciate a warm, reflective approach and who are interested in understanding not just their symptoms, but the deeper experiences shaping them. I often work with people facing anxiety, mood difficulties, relationship challenges, or periods of transition, and who feel ready to explore those experiences in a safe and steady therapeutic partnership.

4. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

When I’m out and about, you can usually find me browsing clothing or interior design shops, or tracking down a great dessert or dinner spot. I try to keep moving with yoga, Pilates, and—most reliably—walking our 15-pound cavapoo, who insists on his two outings a day regardless of the weather. I’m also a big fan of live theater and will happily settle into a seat for a play or musical whenever I can. At home, I take pride in keeping things tidy and the kitchen ready for whatever baking experiment comes next, and soaking up quality time with my husband and son.