Meet Katie Unverferth, MD | Reproductive Psychiatrist and Expert in Women’s Mental Health

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Unverferth, MD and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
On a family road trip years ago, I stumbled upon a paperweight in a small shop that read: “Whatever you are, be a good one.” I didn’t know then that it’s often attributed to Abraham Lincoln, but the simplicity of that message resonated with me deeply. That little paperweight sat on my desk through high school, college, medical school, residency, and still sits in my office today. It’s been a quiet, constant reminder that no matter what role I take on—student, psychiatrist, educator, advocate—I should strive to do it with integrity, intention, and compassion. I’ve carried that mindset into every aspect of my work, including directing the UCLA Women’s Life Center, building a private practice dedicated to reproductive psychiatry, and mentoring the next generation of clinicians through national lectures and weekly resident teaching. For me, it’s not about being the best on paper—it’s about showing up with authenticity, doing meaningful work, and using my expertise to elevate others. That quote has become a personal mantra, grounding me through each chapter of my journey and reminding me that success is measured not just by achievement, but by impact.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The most important factor behind my success has been my unwavering commitment to continuous learning—both for myself, those I teach, and my patients. I’m constantly seeking new opportunities to deepen my knowledge and share that with others. I’m proud to be recognized as a national expert in women’s mental health, and this year, I have the privilege of lecturing at Postpartum Support International, the National Psychopharmacology Update, and Grand Rounds in Psychiatry departments across the US. I’ve also served as a national examiner for the National Curriculum for Reproductive Psychiatry, helping to shape the education of future practitioners. In addition to my academic and teaching roles, I run a thriving private practice focused on reproductive psychiatry, where I provide individualized, evidence-based care to women navigating complex mental health challenges. For me, success is rooted in both expertise and the ability to educate, mentor, and elevate the field as a whole.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they got the perfect mix of sunshine, movement, and great food. We’d start with a beach walk near the Venice Canals—I have a favorite hidden parking spot—and then grab coffee at Alanna’s, making sure to pick up a bag of their beans to take home. I’d insist on dinner at Beethoven Market, a cozy local spot we can walk to from my house. One morning we’d sweat it out at Sweat Yoga; I’m a big fan of a super hot yoga class with an amazing playlist. We’d also take a day trip to Malibu—wander around the Malibu Country Mart, browse a few shops, and have a long, leisurely lunch at Taverna Tony’s. For me, the best kind of week includes outdoor time, meaningful conversation, excellent coffee, and meals that feel like an experience. That’s the LA I love to share.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m incredibly grateful for my mentors—Michael Gitlin, MD, Vivien Burt, MD, and Erin Murphy Barzilay, MD—each of whom played a pivotal role in shaping my career. Their insights and guidance have been invaluable. I also want to acknowledge my husband, who has been a constant source of encouragement and support throughout my career. He reassured me when I was first starting my private practice and has been my biggest cheerleader ever since, always pushing me to keep going and reminding me that I’m a rockstar. My parents, too, were fundamental in helping me navigate the challenges of medical school and residency, providing unwavering support and belief in me. Their foundation has been crucial to everything I’ve accomplished.

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