Hi, I’m Vicki kalira.
I founded Three Little Birds, M.D. to create a space for those seeking to explore their own mental health beyond the conventional methods of Western medicine—embracing innovative ideas while integrating time-honored traditions from around the world.
The essence of Three Little Birds by Bob Marley for me lies in its message of interconnectedness, reminding us to find comfort and harmony in the natural world and each other. It emphasizes that collective reassurance and unity can bring peace, even in challenging times.
background
With numerous options available, it is essential to understand what sets me apart. As a psychiatrist, I completed medical school followed by a rigorous residency, accumulating over 10,000 clinical hours. Beyond this, I pursued an additional year of specialized training in addiction psychiatry, learning directly from pioneers who helped establish the field in the 1980s.
This strong foundation has allowed me to expand my expertise in psychotherapy, nutrition, trauma, energy work, psychedelics, physical movement, behavioral interventions, and emotional regulation—an ever-growing list reflecting my commitment to comprehensive, integrative care. When you work with me, you are partnering with a lifelong learner dedicated to evolving and incorporating the most effective, evidence-based interventions.
Medical training
Bachelor’s Degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology with a minor in Cognitive Psychology
Medical Degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine
Intern year at Allegheny General Hospital
Residency training at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fellowship training at New York University School of Medicine
Employment
Consultation-Liaison (CL) Psychiatrist at NYU-Tisch Hospital
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Private Practice through NYU-Tisch Hospital
Outpatient Psychiatrist (general psychiatry and substance use disorders, including a methadone clinic) at James J. Peters VA
Outpatient Psychiatrist at VA Northern California Health Care System
Medical Director for the Substance Use Disorder Program at VA Northern California Health Care System
Private Practice Psychiatrist through Mental Health Center
Private Practice Psychiatrist through Three Little Birds, M.D.
active medical licensures
California
Oregon
New York
active board certifications
American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry - General Adult Psychiatry
American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry - Addiction Psychiatry
certificates and trainings
Motivational Enhancement Therapy Certification
Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Integrative Nutritional Health Coach Certification
Advanced Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR) Therapy Certification
Certified in Medical Qi Gong after two-year training
Reiki First Degree Certification
Grof Breathwork Training with Dr. Grof (not certified)
Trauma Sensitive Yoga Foundations with Keri Sawyer, who is a licensed Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) trainer
MDMA-assisted therapy MAPS training
Dr. Kalira earned her Medical Degree through West Virginia University and completed her psychiatry residency at Johns Hopkins University. After completing her one-year addiction psychiatry fellowship at New York University (NYU), she worked with hospitalized patients at NYU-Tisch Hospital as a Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrist. She focused on providing care to patients with complex medical and psychiatric comorbidities, including patients experiencing acute intoxication or withdrawal states. During her time at NYU, Dr. Kalira also participated in a two-year psychodynamic psychotherapy training program.
Following NYU, Dr. Kalira found her passion in serving those who have served us, through the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), where she remains today. She first worked at the James J. Peters VA and split her time between the outpatient general psychiatry clinic and the methadone clinic. During this time she was certified in Motivational Enhancement Therapy, a modality used to help people make decisions at stuck points.
Dr. Kalira is the Medical Director for Addiction Recovery Treatment Services at the VA Northern California Health Care System, one of the largest VAs in the country. While there, she underwent training through Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) for MDMA assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Kalira is considered a Subject Matter Expert in the field of psychedelics at the VA nationally. She has been a strong advocate in Oregon on Measure 109, which focused on creating legal access points to psilocybin. She brings all of her experience and passion to her psychedelic evaluations. In addition to the psychedelic medical evaluations, Dr. Kalira welcomes the opportunity to work on preparation and integration.