Testimonials

Sean B.

As a psychologist who practices in both San Francisco and Los Angeles, there are times when for one reason or another I need to refer somebody out to psychiatry rather than having them see one of our practice's physicians. It's complicated, but suffice to say that when these situations occur it is critical that I have full faith and trust that the psychiatrist to whom I referred my patients will not drop the ball.

On my incredibly short list of psychiatrists in private practice in the bay area to whom I will entrust the sharing of my damn near sacred doctor-patient relationship, Dr. Chacko is pretty much my entire list.

Whether I'm working with a male or a female, a veteran or civilian, a heterosexual or member of the LGBT community, someone with mild moderate or more intense mental health issues, I know that Dr. Chacko will intuitively know how to read the situation and respond effectively. I know that my patient will feel connected in a very human capacity, will feel safe and secure, will feel that they are being treated as a human being and not a quick prescriptive in and out.

If I would trust Dr. Chacko with my patients, would refer my own family and friends to him, would see him myself if I were in need of a psychiatric work up, I feel that is the best endorsement I could offer a colleague, and feel very fortunate that we have the ability to collaborate in patient care.

Candace Z.

This Dr., did so much for me in just one apt. He is kind and compassionate. Just by reading his bio I had a good feeling, and my gut was right on. I went to him because I became dependent on Zanax in only a 3-4 Mo., period, and needed help to wean down. Again, he was very compassionate and understanding and non judgmental. He was onboard at going at my own pace to titrate down. Obvious I was struggling with anxiety, and just him sharing some great tools, I left there with new ways to help decrease my anxiety. You truly couldn't be in better hands.

Roger C.

I've been a patient of Dr Chacko for almost two years. I'm also a retired clinical social worker with 20 years experience as a psychotherapist and a clinical director and administrator responsible for overseeing therapists, both as direct hired and contracted, from disciplines ranging from clinical nurse specialists to doctorate level clinical psychologists, to social workers, and other disciplines. I can spot a good therapist pretty quickly and can just as easily identify one who needs more direction and supervision. I'm happy to report that Dr Chacko has consistently provided top quality care. He is quite comfortable to talk to and listens carefully to everything I say. He is genuinely happy when I have progress to report and empathizes appropriately when I'm struggling. He helps me find my own way and avoids judgements or prescribed behavior. He is sensitive to my medication needs such that we have been able to very gradually eliminate one prescription. This had a tremendous positive impact on the quality of my life.
I have no doubt you will be as pleased.

E. V.

I saw Dr. Chacko for one year to help me cope with my anxiety that I picked up while serving in the military. I felt that I hit rock bottom before I went to see him. When I first met him, Dr Chacko allowed me to express myself. I noticed that he was listening carefully the whole time to get to know me. He asked questions to try to pinpoint to the source of my problems, so he can provide the appropriate advise. After the first meeting, I knew that he was caring and really wanted to help me out; I really trusted Dr. Chacko. Therefore, I always looked forward to talk to Dr. Chacko about anything that was bothering me. I felt safe and comfortable in his office. He always had great advise. There were a couple of times where he saw me without an appointment; he said that this was not a problem to see me without notice. Your well-being is his number one priority. I was glad that I was referred to Dr Chacko. He helped me realize that I can overcome my issues. One thing I learned is that stress is unavoidable. He taught me how to interpret situations differently so I can feel and respond in a positive way. This is just one example, and he helped me build a large tool box of strategies and techniques to handle things differently. I can say that now I feel significantly better than when I first started seeing. Dr. Chacko is a caring person that you can trust. He loves helping people. Because of him, I feel optimistic!

Al R.

As a 100% disabled Vietnam era Marine Veteran  and a Agent Orange cancer survivor with PTSD, I feel blessed to be a current patient of Dr. Chacko. I immediately related to Dr. Chacko due to his own extensive military background as a Navy Seal candidate, it was very easy to relate to someone who speaks your own language and experiences. He has a very disarming demure and makes one feel comfortable in feeling free to express ones inner feelings... He's a great listener and provides positive techniques on how understand my anxieties and how to prevent them from escalating into unmanageable episodes... In the year I have be treated my Dr. Chacko, I've seen measurable improvements in transitioning into a healthier outlook in working through my daily life challenges... A true validation of a mans good work, is when other veterans patients also have high praise for Dr. Chacko... 

"Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity' 
Hippocrates

Tammy C.

My son, an 18-year-old high school senior, saw Dr. Chacko for a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation required for a medical review for eligibility to receive a Naval ROTC college scholarship and subsequent service as an officer in the U.S. Navy. For several weeks we sought a Bay Area based psychiatrist who was both qualified and willing to perform this assessment while also being credible with the Department of Navy. His background as a USNA graduate, former Naval Officer and Medical credentials with the military and VA made him a unique find for my son's needs.

We found Dr. Chacko to be thoroughly professional, extremely responsive, accommodating and sensitive to our short timeline with this unusual request. He was very thorough in his assessment that included a detailed medical history review, a two hour in person session with my son, interviews with my son's references including personal, employment, academic and athletic coaches and writing a detailed, thoughtful and comprehensive medical report. My son has also commented that Dr. Chacko not only helped him through this NROTC psychiatric medical evaluation but in the course of conversation was also able to both listen and provide an unbiased perspective on the challenges and opportunities of a military career. He has offered to be a

It was apparent in all interactions, that Dr. Chacko is a competent, compassionate, caring and trustworthy psychiatrist who has the best interest of the patient at the center of his practice. If the need arises in the future, I would see Dr. Chacko without hesitation.