Professional headshot of Dr. Garza, a board-certified psychiatrist, representing his expertise in mental health care and psychiatry

Gabriel Garza, MD, FAPA

Dr. Gabriel Garza, MD, FAPA is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with a deep passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner strengths. With years of experience in academic, clinical, and private practice settings, Dr. Garza brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his work.

Known for his patient-centered philosophy, Dr. Garza is dedicated to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. His approach integrates evidence-based psychiatric care with a focus on fostering resilience, hope, and meaningful connections. In 2023 he was elected as a fellow in the American Psychiatric Association (APA), an honor in recognition of a person’s commitment to the psychiatric profession and the APA’s work.

As a devoted mental health advocate, Dr. Garza understands the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space where patients of all ages feel heard, respected, and empowered. His mission is to help each individual on their path toward healing, growth, and lasting wellness.

When he’s not working with patients, Dr. Garza enjoys spending time with his family, caring for his beloved dog, and exploring opportunities to make a positive impact in his community.

Professional Career Timeline

I attended medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, TX

2003 - 2007

I completed my general psychiatry training at Wake Forest Psychiatry Residency and my child and adolescent psychiatry training at Wake Forest Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship

2007 - 2012

UT Southwestern Psychiatry logo, representing excellence in psychiatric education, research, and mental health care

Assistant professor for the University of Texas Southwestern, Department of Psychiatry, Austin campus

2012 - 2014

University of Texas School of Nursing logo, representing excellence in nursing education, research, and healthcare

Assistant professor for the University of Texas Dell Medical School, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

2014 - 2025

Adjunct clinical affiliate for the University of Texas, School of Nursing

2017 - current

Commitment to Education

After completion of my training at Wake Forest in 2012 I found myself drawn to education. As the years have gone by I found myself to be as much of an educator as I am a psychiatrist. I was a UT assistant professor from 2012 - 2025. Education is at the heart of how I practice. For the majority of my patient appointments I was accompanied by a nurse who was learning how to become a nurse practitioner. My patients expected and found significant value with their presence, as it enriched the treatment experience from a single provider to the feeling of having a team of people providing help. I have thousands of hours of precepting nursing students and around 10,000 hours supervising psychiatry training clinics.

Dr. Garza casually sitting with his dog, Loki, at Sculpture Falls in Austin, TX, enjoying the outdoors and a relaxing moment together.

Commitment to Self

Taking care of oneself is a necessity for wellness. This can take many forms, perhaps it’s a walk on the beach with your dogs, a relaxing time working in your garden, or spending time with family. The practice of psychiatry not only involves medication but we must consider the impact of what our behaviors and habits do for our mental health.

A couple holding hands, symbolizing the meaningful connections we share with those we love and who love us in return

Commitment to the people you care about and the people who care about you

We are inherently social creatures. People want to be loved and cared for. The relationships that we have in our lives, good and bad, shape who we become as adults. The care you receive will incorporate an understanding of these relationships and their impact.