Kathryn Chen, MD

Kathryn Chen, MD, is a UW Health psychiatrist and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She specializes in inpatient psychiatry and provides comprehensive mental health care for adults experiencing acute, serious and complex psychiatric conditions.

Dr. Chen cares for hospitalized patients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders and other psychiatric conditions that require intensive evaluation and treatment. She assesses patients’ mental health needs, develops individualized treatment plans and helps stabilize symptoms in a safe and supportive hospital setting. She also provides care for patients experiencing psychiatric crises who require close monitoring and specialized inpatient treatment.

Dr. Chen works closely with patients, families and multidisciplinary care teams to coordinate comprehensive treatment. She collaborates with psychologists, social workers, nurses, therapists and other specialists to address each patient’s unique needs. Using evidence-based approaches, she develops personalized treatment plans while emphasizing patient safety, clear communication and high-quality care throughout hospitalization.

Dr. Chen is committed to compassionate, patient-centered care and helping patients and their families better understand mental health conditions and treatment options. She supports patients throughout their recovery by promoting emotional well-being, developing coping strategies and coordinating discharge planning and follow-up care. Her goal is to help patients achieve stability and ensure a smooth transition to outpatient services and community-based support after leaving the hospital.