Dr. Ara Darakjian is a psychiatrist currently practicing in Pasadena. A southern California native, Dr. Darakjian is a graduate of La Canada High School. From there, he developed an interest in the brain at UCLA, where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s of Science in Neuroscience.

Dr. Darakjian continued his studies at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine in Florida. There he cultivated a passion for understanding and treating mental disorders, building a strong understanding of current psychiatric practice, as well as its trajectory for the future.

Dr. Darakjian came back to southern California and completed his residency at Los Angeles County + University of Southern California (LAC+USC) Medical Center, where he served as chief resident of the outpatient clinic.

During his residency, he spearheaded multiple projects, including an “insomnia initiative” to make Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) available to the entire LAC+USC campus.

He developed other psychotherapy skills by immersing himself in the study of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), which incorporates a nuanced model of anxiety and a singular focus on internal emotional conflicts.

While exploring the psychological aspects of mental health, Dr. Darakjian also took interest in the biological components, conducting research on the effects of a ketogenic diet on cognition and mood.

Dr. Darakjian is passionate about his work, and the potentially life-changing impact it can bring to those seeking help.