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About Dr. Bender

Dr. Eric Bender is a psychiatrist, therapist, and media consultant based in San Francisco, California, where he provides individualized, evidence-based care to patients across the Bay Area and through virtual sessions throughout California, New York, and Florida. His extensive clinical training and years of experience working with patients from diverse backgrounds shape his thoughtful, collaborative therapeutic style.

Dedicated to building strong, supportive, and trusting relationships, Dr. Bender brings a non-judgmental, engaged, and patient-centered approach to therapy. His work emphasizes understanding each person’s unique experiences and emotional patterns, allowing him to tailor treatment to their needs. Since 2018, he has been recognized as a Top Doctor in the Bay Area, affirming his commitment to high-quality psychiatric care in the San Francisco community.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Bender is passionate about improving how mental health is portrayed in the media. He consults with writers, actors, directors, producers, and studios to help shape accurate and responsible depictions of psychology, emotional development, and psychiatric treatment. His recent work includes serving as a consultant for Batman: Arkham Shadow, winner of VR Game of the Year in 2024.

Dr. Bender is also known for his expert commentary on mental health in popular culture. He has appeared in and hosted episodes of GQ’s “The Breakdown” and WIRED’s “Tech Support,” offering insight into the psychology behind well-known characters and storylines. His expertise has been featured across numerous TV shows, films, video games, and podcasts.

Whether supporting patients seeking therapy in San Francisco or collaborating with creative teams on media projects nationwide, Dr. Bender is committed to promoting understanding, reducing stigma, and helping people navigate their emotional worlds with clarity and compassion. Contact Dr. Bender for more information or to schedule an appointment..

  • Board Certifications

    American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
    General Adult Psychiatry

    American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
    Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

    American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
    Forensic Psychiatry

  • Training

    Transitional Internship, Department of Surgery
    University of Pennsylvania

    General Adult Psychiatry Residency
    University of California, San Francisco

    Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship
    University of California, Los Angeles

    Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship
    University of California, Davis

  • Education

    Medical School
    University of California, San Diego

    Post-Baccalaureate Pre Medical Education
    Mills College

    Undergraduate
    Georgetown University
    Oxford University