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Carolyn Benson, MD

Staff Psychiatrist
Languages
English
Conditions Treated
ADHD
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
PTSD/Trauma

Education and training

  • University of North Carolina, BS
  • Brody School of Medicine - Greenville Facility, MD
  • University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Residency
  • University of Rochester Medical Center, Fellowship

Get to know

Carolyn Benson, MD

Dr. Carolyn Benson has 21 years of experience in treating adults, adolescents, and children. After graduating medical school at Brody School of Medicine in Greenville, North Carolina, she moved to Rochester, NY to complete her residency and fellowship at University of Rochester School of Medicine. Her focus over the last ten years has been on working with young adults, children/adolescents, and their families. Her expertise covers a wide array of therapeutic modalities and mental health diagnoses. The primary focus of her sessions is to provide medication management with education on treatment options. She will provide therapy models that are appropriate within that 20�30 minute medication session. If longer therapy time frames are indicated, she will discuss the need to add a therapist to your treatment team to achieve optimal care. Her successful treatment outcomes are based on experience, staying current on psychiatric treatments, and having open communication with patients and families of children/adolescents so they can choose the most effective treatments. Prior to medical school, she worked in both marine and biochemical research venues and was coauthor in several research papers. She has an avid interest in the emerging field of neuroscience and frequently gives talks to colleagues and students on current research topics. Her primary objectives in her work are to help patients achieve success in both treatment and life goals and to always take time to truly listen to her patients.

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New patients can expect Dr. Tran to respect their time and autonomy while working together to establish shared treatment goals. Dr. Tran values open candor and punctuality, aiming to create a therapeutic relationship grounded in mutual trust, transparency, and collaboration.

During the first visit, Dr. Tran takes a comprehensive history and background to determine if the therapeutic relationship is the right fit for both patient and provider. Ongoing care typically involves monthly appointments for medication management until stability is achieved, after which visits may shift to quarterly follow-ups. This structured yet flexible approach supports continuity and long-term well-being.

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Background and credentials

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Treatment approach

Dr. Harneja specializes in medication management and supportive psychotherapy, with a strong emphasis on promoting well-being, resilience, and mindfulness. She works closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans, ensuring that care is collaborative and patient-centered. Follow-up visits typically last 30 minutes, during which she evaluates treatment progress and adjusts care as needed. If additional therapy is beneficial, she may recommend working with a therapist as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

What you can expect in a first visit

During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation, where Dr. Harneja takes time to understand their symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. She prioritizes open communication and trust, working collaboratively to create a personalized care plan that aligns with the patient’s mental health needs. Whether through medication management, therapy, or mindfulness techniques, she aims to foster long-term well-being and emotional resilience.

Why Talkiatry?

We’re a virtual mental health practice that makes it easy to find great care. We combine quality and convenience to help you thrive—faster. Our providers, like this one, are highly trained experts who specialize in medication management and collaborate with you on a treatment plan that fits your needs and comfort level.

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Dr. Pallavi Tatapudy, MD, earned her medical degree from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She completed Stony Brook’s combined residency in Adult Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, along with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Fellowship. Board certified in adult psychiatry and board eligible in child and adolescent psychiatry, she has worked across inpatient, emergency, outpatient, and school settings. Her training includes expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and she incorporates principles from Supportive Psychotherapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.

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Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
PTSD/Trauma
States
New York
Tennessee
Florida
Languages
English
Takes insurance
Virtual visits
22 years experience