Dale Sebastian, MD, is a psychiatrist specializing in the care of individuals with chronic mental illnesses in long-term inpatient settings. He treats a range of conditions including psychotic and mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and personality disorders.
Dr. Sebastian was drawn to psychiatry by a deep interest in the human experience and the resilience he witnessed in patients navigating severe mental illness. He finds meaning in working with individuals whose journeys are often complex and marked by stigma, isolation, or institutionalization. He takes a strength-based, person-centered approach to care, with a focus on dignity, autonomy, and recovery. His clinical work often intersects with systemic issues such as legal challenges, socioeconomic disparities, and access to community-based services.
As an associate professor of psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Sebastian’s academic work is centered on improving care strategies for patients with complex psychiatric needs, and on training future clinicians to think critically, compassionately, and holistically. His career goals have always centered on bridging the gap between systems and individuals—demystifying mental illness through education, advocacy, and evidence-based care. He is especially passionate about teaching and mentorship, and he strives to help trainees develop a clear sense of purpose and confidence in their clinical identity.
The most important thing Dr. Sebastian wants patients to know is that he sees them as whole people, not just diagnoses. He is deeply committed to building trust and understanding, and to walking alongside his patients as they navigate their recovery journey.
Dr. Sebastian earned his medical degree from St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences in Bangalore, India, and completed residency and fellowship training in psychiatry and public psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine.
