Dr. Alexandra Wang , MD, MPH

Aloha, I’m Dr. Alexandra Wang, a board-certified psychiatrist with a background in public health and community medicine. I strive to help my patients understand and heal from the root causes of their struggles, in addition to treating symptoms.  I take the time to understand each person as a whole– their experiences, relationships, strengths, challenges, and what gives their life meaning.

I believe in a holistic approach to healing with psychiatry, often incorporating psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, hobbies, creativity,  self-awareness and meaningful relationships into the healing process. I also enjoy working closely with therapists and other members of a person’s care team so that treatment feels thoughtful, coordinated and individualized.

During and following my residency, I served at the VA, including as a medical director for a community-based psychiatry program supporting Veterans with serious mental illness. This experience deepened my belief in treating the whole person and the powerful role that community and connection can play in healing.

Over the years, I have incorporated many complementary approaches into my work, including  art and music therapy, equine therapy, gardening, cooking, pet therapy, and ecotherapy. One of the groups I enjoyed leading most was called Art Talk, a process group where Veterans could express themselves creatively while building meaningful connections with each other. Through this and other groups I led, I realized how important connection, creativity, and a sense of belonging are to one’s healing.

I later spent nearly four years with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, where I formed a deep appreciation for advocacy and for understanding each person’s unique circumstances. I am passionate about helping each person in the way that best serves their individual needs and while having an open mind.

I was born and raised in Philadelphia and grew up in my father’s art gallery. From an early age, I was surrounded by art and learned about the creative process of making, viewing, and interpreting art. That experience continues to influence the way I see people and healing today.

I double-majored in English and Biology at Goucher College in Baltimore, MD, then earned my Master’s degree in Public Health at Yale University, with a focus in Chronic Disease Epidemiology. I then attended Temple University School of Medicine (now called Lewis Katz School of Medicine) in Philadelphia, PA. I afterwards completed my residency training in General Psychiatry at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL.

I have been fortunate to call Hawaii my home for three years. The aloha, mana, and spirit of the ‘aina have me feel that this is where I was always meant to be.

I became involved with political activism while living in Philadelphia and Florida, and have done effective activism work involving the LGBTQ+ community as a supportive Ally, both through the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and other local advocacy groups.

My favorite prescription to write is that for an emotional support animal. I love animals and firmly believe that having a pet (when feasible) can be one of the best forms of healing.

Whether you are just beginning your healing journey or well on your road to happiness and peace, I will adopt a balanced approach centered around you as a person. I would be honored to support you.