Venkatesh Handratta, MD, MS

Practice Philosophy

Dr. Handratta is an Adult Psychiatrist recognized for his calm presence, approachable style, and ever-present smile. He creates an environment where patients feel comfortable, understood, and respected from their first visit. With a strong background in medical education and neuropsychiatry, Dr. Handratta excels at explaining complex concepts in clear, accessible language. He helps patients understand how the brain works, how emotions affect cognition, and how biological, environmental and hormonal factors can impact symptoms.

Dr. Handratta is frequently sought out for second opinions and diagnostic consultations, particularly in medically complex or treatment-resistant cases. He takes time to carefully review medical records, coordinate with therapists and other physicians, and ensure that each patient receives a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan.  He views medication as a tool that can reduce emotional intensity enough for patients to fully engage in therapy and develop lasting coping skills. He reassesses the need for medication once a patient is stable, and supports patients in tapering when appropriate. Dr. Handratta’s combination of warmth, medical sophistication, and commitment to collaboration allows him to provide comprehensive, thoughtful care.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Handratta specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and other complex mood conditions. He is also highly experienced at treating women during pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause, taking into consideration hormonal fluctuations, maternal safety, and overall wellness in devising treatment plans. He frequently works with individuals struggling with symptoms of ADHD, and often recommends executive function coaching to support long-term success.

With advanced training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, Dr. Handratta is especially skilled in treating patients whose psychiatric symptoms intersect with medical illness, including cardiac, liver, kidney, neurological, and other chronic conditions. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and specialists, carefully considering medical factors in medication selection.  His expertise includes interpreting EKGs, reviewing brain imaging (MRI), and incorporating genetic testing into medication decision-making.

Experience and Training

Dr. Handratta is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed his residency at the University of Connecticut, followed by several years working with an underserved community on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He went on to complete a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Georgetown University Hospital, where he developed advanced expertise in caring for medically complex patients. He has served as an attending physician at leading academic and tertiary care centers, including Georgetown University Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Emory University, and the Washington, DC Veterans Affairs Hospital. In addition to his clinical work, he is actively involved in teaching and supervising psychiatry trainees, and co-hosts The Y in Psychiatry podcast, where he explores the intersection of the mental health, medicine, and the human experience.