ADHD Psychiatrists in Arizona

Dr. Sumbal Akhter graduated from the University of Nevada at Las Vegas Psychiatry residency program. She has a wide range of experience, having worked at the VA, consult liaison psychiatry, and multiple inpatient/outpatient settings. She provides supportive psychotherapy and takes an integrative approach to her practice.

Dr. Patel is a distinguished psychiatrist with over 24 years of experience. He completed his psychiatric residency at the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, where he served as chief resident and earned the Outstanding Resident of the Year award. He then pursued a fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

He is triple Board certified in Adult Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and Sleep Medicine and also holds certification in Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry from the United Council for Neurological Subspecialties. These credentials reflect his expertise in psychiatry, neurology, and the management of complex psychiatric conditions in medically ill patients.

Dr. Patel has worked in diverse settings including inpatient units, psychiatric consult services, outpatient clinics, and nursing homes. He is skilled in neuromodulation treatments such as Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

In addition to clinical practice, he has served leadership roles of chairman of a psychiatric department, medical director of a behavioral health service line in a regional health system, and founder/CEO of a private psychiatric and TMS clinic. Dedicated to ongoing professional growth, Dr. Patel remains at the forefront of psychiatric advancements in psychiatric care, earning a reputation as a respected leader in the field.

Dr. Patel combines deep knowledge of neurobiology, behavioral health, and the mind-body connection to offer a collaborative, evidence-based, and holistic approach to care. He integrates diet, exercise, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle modifications with psychotherapy and medication management.

His approach emphasizes active listening, curiosity, compassion, and even humor—creating a warm and supportive environment. By encouraging patients to integrate their unique life experiences into their treatment, he fosters ownership, empowerment, and active participation in the healing process.

During your first visit, Dr. Patel will review your symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, past treatments, substance use, psychosocial factors, and family history. He will discuss treatment options—including risks and benefits—and determine if his expertise and the telehealth platform are the right fit for your needs. Your safety is his top priority.

Follow-up visits focus on monitoring progress, adjusting treatments, maintaining stability, and supporting your motivation to achieve your fullest potential.

Jennifer Hewitt is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, credentialed through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). She earned her master’s degree in nursing from Gonzaga University and has extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Her passion for psychiatry and dedication to patient care are rooted in her background as an emergency room nurse and her experience in emergency medical services (EMS). This foundation has given her a unique perspective on the critical role mental health plays in overall well-being.

Jennifer provides compassionate care to adults, children, and adolescents, recognizing that each individual’s path to mental wellness is unique. She believes that while medication can be an important part of treatment, self-care and therapy are equally essential components of a holistic approach.

She is known for her empathetic listening and genuine connection with patients. Through collaboration, she helps individuals set realistic goals and empowers them to take an active role in their recovery. Her kindness and commitment create a supportive environment where patients can thrive on their journey toward mental wellness

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Michelle Hamilton is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a special interest in the care of adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD. She earned her Master of Science Degree from The Ohio State University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from The Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon. Her background includes both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry. Michelle has a passion for incorporating a holistic, evidenced-based approach to improve the mental health needs of each individual client through medication and therapy while emphasizing practical lifestyle changes such as the incorporation of exercise, healthy nutrition, and stress management techniques.

Cecilia Wild is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a strong background in treating patients across the mental health spectrum. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Illinois State University and began her career in a women’s residential facility specializing in mood disorders, eating disorders, and PTSD. She then transitioned to inpatient adolescent psychiatry, where she became a charge nurse and obtained her Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMH-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Inspired by her passion for mental health, she pursued her master's degree at the University of St. Francis to become a PMHNP.  

Cecilia has extensive experience treating patients at all levels of care, including inpatient, PHP/IOP, and outpatient settings. She later transitioned to telehealth, providing medication management to college students. She is passionate about mental health advocacy, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.  

Cecilia takes a team-based, individualized approach to care. She believes in the importance of education, open communication, and empowering patients in their treatment journey. She emphasizes a holistic perspective, incorporating medication management, therapy, and lifestyle modifications.  

Cecilia prioritizes a trauma-informed approach, recognizing the significant role trauma plays in mental health. She integrates mindfulness techniques, motivational interviewing, and lifestyle changes to support overall well-being. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, she helps patients build resilience and achieve their mental health goals.

Dr. Helms is a graduate of the University of Arizona College of Medicine. He completed his General Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent fellowship training at the University of Texas, Health Science Center at San Antonio. He has over 25 years of experience as a psychiatrist treating patients of all ages (child, adolescent, and adult�including geriatric) while working in a multitude of treatment settings including outpatient clinics and psychiatric hospitals. He also has several years of experience working as a psychiatric consultant for medical-surgical hospitals, seeing an extensive variety of patients on all floors of the hospital from mother-baby to pediatrics, as well as adult patients on the medical and surgical floors. Dr. Helms takes with him into each patient encounter, his wide breadth of experience and his genuine care and concern for each and every individual patient. He provides both medication treatment and talk therapy. He understands that many patients greatly benefit from either short or long term medication treatment; however, he also understands that talk therapy can oftentimes lead to significant, long lasting positive change, personal growth, and improvements in occupational and relationship success. Moreover, patients will always find Dr. Helms encouraging and supportive as they search for greater meaning and purpose in their lives.

Jackie LaVe' is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is also dually certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her master’s degree and post-master’s certificate from Vanderbilt University. Jackie has 12 years of experience as a nurse and over 7.5 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner. Jackie is licensed to practice in Montana, Arizona and New York.

Jackie LaVe’ offers a patient centered approach, working with individuals aged 18-65. She believes in engaging patients in the decision-making process. Jackie has professional interests in treating a wide range of adult psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, panic, autism and bipolar disorder.

She provides psychiatric assessments and medication management along with brief supportive psychotherapy. She believes in educating patients, so they are empowered to work together to create treatment plans that improve their health and quality of life. Jackie has additional education and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and motivational enhancement. Jackie can also review if adding a therapist to your care team could improve outcomes.

Myrtle Davenport is a dual certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience in healthcare. She completed her Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner at Chamberlain University and a Post Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Valdosta State University. Myrtle is skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders including but not limited to anxiety, major depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and other mood disorders across the life span. She is trained in psychiatric diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy. Over the past 7 years, she has gained valuable experience in a number of settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential facilities, community mental health clinics, and private practice.

Myrtle is dedicated to providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment where patients can expect to be heard, emotionally validated, and supported. She will ensure that patients are well-informed, empowering them to be active participants in managing their care. By fostering a strong therapeutic relationship, she will support her patients in achieving long-term mental wellness and resilience.

As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Myrtle provides comprehensive mental health care to individuals across the lifespan, helping them navigate through their mental health challenges with a holistic, compassionate approach. Her clinical practice involves conducting a thorough assessment and gathering relevant information from patients about their medical, psychiatric, and social history. Through open and empathetic communication, she will ensure a deep understanding of their symptoms, challenges, and goals. Based on the assessment, she will work closely with her patients to develop an individualized treatment plan and lifestyle recommendations. She will offer education on mental health conditions, coping strategies, and self-care techniques. She also provides referrals to therapists and other support services, helping patients develop the skills they need to thrive. She also believes in providing psychoeducation to patients, families, and caregivers. Myrtle's approach to patient care is grounded in empathy, respect, and evidence-based practices, and she is committed to fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where patients feel empowered to achieve their mental health goals.

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Severine Dondina, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with licensure in Washington and Florida. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and graduated summa cum laude with dual bachelor’s degrees in nursing and biomedical science. Her background spans outpatient, community, forensic, and crisis psychiatry, including leadership roles with Florida’s Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) and Multi-Disciplinary Forensic Teams.

Currently serving patients in Washington, Severine treats adults with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. She brings a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to care and is deeply committed to creating affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse individuals. Her clinical style combines evidence-based medication management with warm, collaborative support.

Trilingual in English, French, and Spanish, Severine is known for her cultural sensitivity, clinical rigor, and authentic presence. She approaches each patient with curiosity, humility, and respect—believing healing begins with connection.

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Dr. Kahlon is an experienced Psychiatrist who spent the last 24 years of his career working in Veterans Affairs, where he was able to treat a wide variety of patients. Dr. Kahlon provides medication management along with supportive therapy. In some cases Dr. Kahlon may refer you to a counselor or therapist for further care and collaboration. He has experience treating a wide range of conditions, including major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and PTSD. Dr. Kahlon utilizes a well-rounded approach to treat the whole person, through medication, active listening, and recommending talk-centered counseling programs. Dr. Kahlon was trained in the VA system associated with Chicago Medical School (Finch University), which is located in North Chicago, Illinois. At the conclusion of his training, he was hired at the VA in Danville, Illinois until 2021. He also had a part-time private practice, which enhanced his experience in adult psychiatry. Dr. Kahlon graduated from a prestigious medical school that has consistently held a high position (4th) among the top 100 medical schools in the world.‍

Amber Gordon, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing personalized mental health care. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Memphis, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Union University, and a nursing practice degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

With over a decade of clinical experience, Gordon has worked in a variety of settings, including psychiatry, intensive care, and dialysis. Her psychiatric experience spans inpatient and outpatient care, as well as residential and correctional facilities. She has served diverse populations, addressing a wide range of mental health conditions such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and perinatal psychiatric conditions.

Gordon’s approach to mental health emphasizes the complex interplay between mental and physical well-being, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. She integrates conventional medicine with alternative therapies, recognizing the importance of medication while also advocating for therapy, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. This holistic philosophy reflects her belief in each patient’s unique journey to mental wellness. Her therapeutic style is described as warm, empathetic, and empowering, with a strong focus on building a trusting and connected therapeutic relationship.

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Wadzanai Lee is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with Talkiatry. She obtained a Bachelor of Science Nursing from University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX in 2013 and Master’s Degree at The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Tx in 2016. She enjoys treating a wide range of psychiatric and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar and mood disorders, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.

Wadzanai's patient care approach embodies a blend of professionalism and compassionate understanding. She fosters an environment that supports her patients and encourages their active involvement in their health journey. Her care technique prioritizes the patients’ needs, creating a supportive and understanding space and ensuring each individual feels seen, heard, and valued. Her patient care style is characterized by her deep empathy and firm commitment to her patients' well-being. She understands the debilitating effects of mental health conditions and is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their mental health goals.

Each appointment ensures that every patient is treated with respect and receives the care necessary for their recovery and overall mental health. She believes in providing individualized therapeutic care to meet your specific needs using a compassionate and non-judgmental approach.

Her services to you will include psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy. If you are looking for a psychiatric and mental health provider who will partner with you on your journey to mental wellness, please call to schedule an appointment today.

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Deborah Ford PMHNP, FNP is a dually certified board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.  She is also qualified as a family nurse practitioner.  She completed her education at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio and the University of Kennesaw in Ga.  Ms. Ford has 10 years of treating patients with mental health issues.  Working in various settings such as outpatient, inpatient, private practice and telepsychiatry.

Whether you’re struggling with Schizophrenia, ADD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Panic, or other mental health disorders. Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome challenges. Please understand you are the priority!   Deborah Ford offers encouragement, empathy, hope and understanding by providing compassion and promoting self-care.  In her free time, she enjoys exercise and travel.  Believing that self-love is an essential part of mental wellness.  She believes in continuous learning and is a patient advocate.  As a team, support is provided with the help of psychotherapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy using motivational interviewing.  Deborah Ford’s Core Values surround Integrity, accountability, diversity, collaboration, inclusion & respect.

Bryce Thacker grew up in a rural community, where he learned the value of helping others achieve their best selves to support overall community health and well-being. With a passion for helping people live their best lives, he earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Nebraska and completed his nursing education at Creighton University. He went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner and in Community Health, from Creighton University, and later completed a nursing practice degree at the University of Colorado with a focus on population and community health. He also holds a post-graduate certification in psychiatric mental health from Washburn University.

Bryce practiced family medicine for 18 years before transitioning to psychiatric mental health in 2022. His background in both physical and mental health gives him a holistic perspective on care. Since shifting his focus, he has helped individuals improve their quality of life through medication management for mood disorders, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. He continues to live in a rural community with his family and remains committed to helping people become their best selves.

Bryce believes that each person’s “best self” is unique and that mental health care should meet individuals where they are. He emphasizes a collaborative, client-centered approach, always keeping the individual’s goals at the heart of care. He is dedicated to helping clients identify and overcome the symptoms and stressors that interfere with their well-being, and he works to dismantle limiting beliefs or labels that may have been placed on them.

By taking the time to understand each person’s challenges and aspirations, Bryce helps clients find sustainable, holistic paths to wellness. His care is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to supporting each person’s journey toward a fulfilling and balanced life.

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Dr. Diane Papke holds the position of staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. After graduating from medical school, she completed internship year in Internal Medicine at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, followed by two years of neurology residency at Barrow Neurological Institute before completing Psychiatric residency at Maricopa Medical Center in 2005. She then spent the majority of her time caring for SMI/seriously mentally ill patients with a mantra "propelling people forward to wellness.” Working on the supportive level of care for this population honed her skills to care for the highest level of outpatient care through ACT/assertive community treatment. She has a genuine interest in treating psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and most specifically bipolar. She has experience treating medical comorbidities including neurologic disorders. In 2023, she extended her expertise and skills to the general population to include telehealth management of her patients. With a nonsense approach, she prides herself on collaborating with patients to attain their goals of optimum psychiatric health, believing that the cornerstone of a healthy partnership with any patient is a holistic approach. Listening with an open mind and heart while collaborating with her patients to provide the correct medication management and supportive care has always been the key for her. She is looking forward to meeting you!

Dr. Mary Stephenson is a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with more than 25 years of clinical experience working with this population. Dr. Stephenson's practice focuses on medication management. She believes that the support and involvement of the family are an integral part of the treatment of the client. Additionally, more therapy support may be needed on occasion, and the recommendation to bring a psychotherapist on the care team may occur to provide an optimal outcome. She received her medical degree from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, and her child and adolescent training at the Bingham Child Guidance Center, also part of the University of Louisville, in Louisville, Kentucky. After completion of her training, she moved to Colorado where she worked at The Cleo Wallace Center, in Westminster, CO, providing care for hospitalized youth, and clients in the Day Treatment and Residential setting. In 2000, Dr. Stephenson became the primary Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist on the outpatient team at Denver Health Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. Her role was providing diagnostic evaluations, and medication management in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and the hospital clinic, working closely with residents, child fellows, and other trainees. She had an academic appointment through the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She treated a varied demographic and had a wide range of diagnoses in the child and adolescent population. From 2016-2021, she worked at Intermountain Health Center in Tucson, AZ providing care in the outpatient setting of the community mental health center. The care was a hybrid model of "in-person” and Telehealth treatment of children and adolescents with various disorders, with an emphasis on diagnostic evaluations of Autism and Autism spectrum disorders.‍