Psychiatrist Career in California
Based on 8 verified physician submissions from California
Psychiatry Salary in California
Practice Settings in California
| Setting | Median Salary | Count |
|---|---|---|
| Other | $800,525 | 2 |
| Private Practice | $500,000 | 3 |
| Academic | $380,000 | 2 |
What Physicians Actually Say
Thematic analysis of career insights from Psychiatry in California physicians. Based on 4 anonymized responses.
About the Career (2 responses)
Autonomy
50%1 physician mentioned this
“Psychiatry a ton of flexibility compared to other fields but there is midlevel encroachment (NPs) and a lot of Private Investors trying to run companies. In this field it makes the most sense to go private, 1099 and do locums or start your own practice if you are trying to make more money. If you...”— Locum Tenens, 4 yrs
Compensation
50%1 physician mentioned this
“Psychiatry a ton of flexibility compared to other fields but there is midlevel encroachment (NPs) and a lot of Private Investors trying to run companies. In this field it makes the most sense to go private, 1099 and do locums or start your own practice if you are trying to make more money. If you...”— Locum Tenens, 4 yrs
About the Lifestyle (2 responses)
Exercise & Hobbies
50%1 physician mentioned this
“I only work 40 hours a week, 4x10hr shifts. I am 1099 so any time I miss I don't get paid. I do work a lot compared to a W2 provider because I don't take much vacation. I do see a very limited number of patients a day, average of 7 per day. I work in Corrections.”
Negotiation Intel
Anonymized advice from Psychiatry in California physicians who recently negotiated contracts.
💡 What to Negotiate
“Go 1099. Don't fall for the trap of W2 unless you are looking for a job that is really light with benefits. Otherwise W2 is a horrible position to be in for psychiatrists.”
4 yrs experience · Locum Tenens
SalaryDr Career Intelligence
Based on 8 verified physician submissions + BLS employment projections
* Limited data — score may shift as more physicians contribute
Score Breakdown
Demand score powered by BLS Employment Projections (2024-2034): 6.1% projected growth (faster than average)