Psychiatrist
With over 12 years of clinical practice and 12 years of service as a psychiatrist in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Philip Yam, MD, has provided evidence-based treatment for thousands of individuals. His interest in healthcare started long before medical school, first as a volunteer at a local nursing facility and later as a volunteer firefighter and EMS responder. That instinct to show up for people in their most vulnerable moments has defined his entire career.
Education and Background
Dr. Yam attended medical school at New York Medical College in Valhalla, NY, where he completed clinical rotations in the busy hospitals of New York City. As a recipient of the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program, he earned a Naval Officer Commission and completed his psychiatry residency at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD.
During his time in the Navy, Dr. Yam served as Department Head of Behavioral Health at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans, Louisiana, and as Head of Embedded Mental Health at Mayport Naval Station in Jacksonville, Florida. He also served as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry for the Uniformed Services University School of Medicine, where he mentored medical students, nurse practitioner students, and physician residents. His years of military service gave him deep expertise in treating veterans, PTSD, and the unique mental health challenges that come with service.
Care Philosophy
Dr. Yam aims to connect with every patient who seeks his care. His philosophy is built on the belief that the doctor-patient relationship is the vehicle to recovery. He treats everyone with respect, dignity, and privacy, and he takes the time to ensure each person feels welcomed and understood. He provides expert care for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.
At Serenity, Dr. Yam offers the latest and most effective treatments available, including medication management, ketamine therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). He is glad to bring these advanced options to his patients at Serenity’s Nocatee location, and he is committed to helping each person find the approach that works best for their life.
Personal Interests
In his free time, Dr. Yam enjoys sports, being outdoors, and spending time with his wife and children. His favorite travel destinations include Hawaii, Italy, the Caribbean Islands, and Japan. He’s also a devoted football fan and serves as commissioner of two Fantasy Football leagues with friends and peers. That competitive spirit and love of connection carry over into the energetic, engaged care he provides every day.
What to Expect
In sessions with Dr. Yam, patients can expect a provider who is warm, respectful, and deeply experienced. He creates a welcoming environment where you can share openly and feel confident that your care is in the hands of someone who has spent his entire career showing up for people when they need it most.