Our Philosophy

At Better Choices Psychiatry, we believe that true transformation goes beyond simply treating symptoms — it’s about unlocking potential, restoring balance, and building the confidence to thrive in every area of life.

We offer care that is intentionally different from the hurried, fragmented model of modern psychiatry. By keeping our practice small and focused, we create the time and space to truly understand you: your history, your challenges, and your aspirations. This allows us to design treatment that is not only highly personalized but also deeply aligned with your goals.

Our physician-led approach draws on years of expertise that set us apart from less experienced providers. Every evaluation and decision is guided by the insight of a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive clinical and leadership experience. This depth of knowledge allows us to address complex conditions while also helping patients who are seeking to maximize performance, resilience, and overall functioning.

We also recognize that mental health does not exist in isolation. That’s why we collaborate with your broader care team — physicians, therapists, and other specialists — to integrate physical, emotional, and cognitive wellness. This whole-person approach ensures that treatment is not just about managing illness, but about creating lasting improvements in energy, focus, and fulfillment.

For patients who value privacy, discretion, and meaningful progress, we offer a different kind of care experience: one that is intentional, unhurried, and fully centered on your growth.

At its core, our philosophy is simple:
Help you move from feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or depleted — to living with clarity, strength, and purpose.

top board certified orange county psychiatrist

Brian Choi MD, MBA, MA

Dr. Brian Choi is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care in Orange County. With a deep commitment to fostering healing and resilience, Dr. Choi specializes in treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, thought disorders, anxiety, and substance use issues. His approach is rooted in empathy, clinical excellence, and a genuine understanding of the challenges faced by those navigating mental health struggles—an understanding shaped by his own personal journey of overcoming depression and anxiety.

Dr. Choi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), a Master’s in Medical Sciences from Boston University, and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Further expanding his expertise in healthcare leadership, Dr. Choi earned an MBA in Health Administration from the University of Colorado, Denver School of Business. He went on to complete residency training in Psychiatry at the University of California, Irvine.

Throughout his career, Dr. Choi has been dedicated to advancing psychiatric care at both the individual and institutional levels. He previously served as the Medical Director for Inpatient Behavioral Health and as Chief for the Mental Health Institute at Providence Mission Hospital. In these leadership roles, he championed initiatives to enhance patient care quality, streamline treatment protocols, and promote a culture of compassion and innovation. In recognition of these efforts, Dr. Choi was honored with the Physician Leadership Award at Providence Mission Hospital for demonstrating outstanding guidance, support, direction, and accomplishment.

Dr. Choi takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to treatment, tailoring care plans to meet the unique needs of each individual. He is passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and empowering patients to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives. Whether guiding patients through medication management, psychotherapy, or integrated wellness strategies, Dr. Choi remains committed to walking alongside them with empathy, authenticity, and unwavering support.