PTSD Psychiatrists in Connecticut

Dr. Jackie Long is an adult psychiatrist who recently completed her residency at the Institute of Living. During her training, she received extensive training caring for a diverse patient population in a variety of settings including emergency, inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings.

Dr. Long blends clinical expertise with a holistic, thoughtful approach individually tailored to each patient’s needs. At the core of Dr. Long’s approach is a belief that healing is most effective when it is collaborative, personalized, and grounded in a strong therapeutic relationship.

Dr. Long provides medication management combined with supportive therapy. She treats a variety of patients with a focus in mood and anxiety disorders and has a clinical interest in cross cultural psychiatry.

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Dr. Saria El Haddad is double boarded in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. She previously held a leadership role of medical director for the dual diagnosis partial hospitalization program at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner hospital where she helped create and establish this program, and also worked as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist. She has been involved in teaching and has maintained an academic affiliation with the Harvard Medical School. In addition, she has appeared in numerous professional publications and authored several research papers.  

Dr. El Haddad received her medical degree from the American University of Beirut, Lebanon and completed her psychiatry residency program at the University of Virginia. She completed a fellowship in addiction psychiatry through Boston University after which she started working at the Brigham and Women's hospital. Dr. El Haddad's approach to treatment focuses on adopting a holistic approach through behavioral change, medication management, and brief psychotherapy.

Dr. Mary O'Malley is board certified in Adult Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. She received her medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical School and PhD in Neurobiology from The Rockefeller University. She completed her Psychiatry residency and Sleep Medicine Fellowship training at the New York University Medical Center. In her psychiatric practice, Dr. O'Malley uses an integrative approach to health, combining evidence-based concepts in neurobiology with psychological, social and spiritual/existential worldviews to understand and treat every patient. Her primary practice is medication management. She also integrates elements of psychotherapy into her work, typically within 30-minute follow-up visits. In addition to medication and psychotherapy, she incorporates wellness tools into visits, such as mindfulness exercises and sleep management strategies. If she believes that additional psychotherapy is needed, she will recommend that you add a therapist to your care team. Dr. O'Malley has extensive experience working with people from many stages of life, with diverse world views and cultural backgrounds. She has always had an inclusive practice and welcomes people who identify as LBGTQIA+. As part of her own life path she became an Interfaith Minister and enjoys including spirituality and the supportive role it can play in healing for her patients. Her primary focus is working with adults with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma symptoms, ADHD, and problems with sleep. She enjoys working with people facing life transitions, especially older adults and women who are struggling with mental health challenges related to pregnancy and post-partum health. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. O'Malley was working at Hartford Healthcare with adults in intensive outpatient programs and at Hackensack Meridian Health outpatient clinics. She was the medical director of the Consultation Liaison Service at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and an assistant professor at UMass Medical School. She has published and presented widely on topics related to Wellness in Psychiatry, Ethics and Sleep Medicine. She is an advocate for finding your voice in medical decision-making and enjoys using sound healing for relaxation and stress management.

Dr. Atkins is a staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is board-certified in adult psychiatry and has been in practice for the past 2 years. He has received several awards for teaching and the treatment of chronically ill patients, including Stony Brook University's "William Turner Award" for excellence in education and leadership. Dr. Atkins has focused his practice primarily on medication management. He combines medication management with a therapeutic style that is a blend of supportive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. Follow‐up appointments with Dr. Atkins typically last 20‐30 minutes. While Dr. Atkins is trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, he works collaboratively with therapists and may recommend their inclusion as part of your treatment team, depending on your individualized treatment plan .Dr. Atkins attended the University of Connecticut School of Medicine where he received his medical degree. He completed his psychiatry residency at Stony Brook University Hospital in New York. Post residency, he worked with general adult patients as well as older adults at Manchester Memorial Hospital where he served as both an outpatient psychiatrist and Director of the Geriatric Intensive Outpatient Program. Although Dr. Atkins does not treat child or adolescent patients, he has experience working with people of all ages, from young adults to adults. He has experience treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, patients in the perinatal period, and patients with co‐co-occurring substance use disorders. He has regularly managed behavioral problems in adults with autism spectrum disorders as well as dementia. He particularly enjoys working with patients dealing with life or role transitions, older adults, and patients with bipolar or other affective disorders.

Dr. Alexandra Dunn is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who completed her medical training at the University of California Irvine School of Medicine. She then moved to New York to complete her psychiatric residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. During training, Dr. Dunn gained extensive clinical experience in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings, allowing her the opportunity to treat patients of all ages and backgrounds. In addition, she co-led a mindfulness group at the outpatient clinic, worked with students at Baruch College, and rotated with the Assertive Community Treatment team at MSBI. Ultimately, Dr. Dunn chose outpatient care, focusing on treating patients with mood and anxiety disorders. While her practice primarily emphasizes medication management, she also incorporates supportive and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques in her sessions with patients. If appropriate, Dr. Dunn will refer you for psychotherapy and collaborate with your therapist to support your care. She looks forward to meeting and working with you to help you feel better.

Dr. Danielle Jackson is a board certified Adult Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She is a graduate of Yale University's Psychiatry Residency and Howard University College of Medicine. Dr. Jackson's practice focuses on a combination of psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy techniques including supportive therapy, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. She approaches care from an individualized, patient-centered, collaborative perspective. She often integrates evidence-based lifestyle recommendations in areas such as nutrition, sleep hygiene, exercise, and stress management tools in treatment to help patients achieve their wellness goals. Her interests include adjustment disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD and trauma-related disorders. In addition, she enjoys helping patients navigate the challenges that can accompany changes in life (careers, parenthood, relationships, chronic illness). Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Jackson served as medical director for substance use and co-occurring disorders at Sunset Terrace Family Health Centers at NYU Langone. She has experience caring for a diverse patient population including those with perinatal mood disorders (postpartum anxiety/depression), substance use disorders and those from minoritized and marginalized communities.

Dr. Daniel Weiss is a double board-certified psychiatrist in adult and forensic psychiatry. His expertise is in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression and bipolar spectrum disorders, anxiety, stress and adjustment problems, maternal mental health, OCD, and other disorders. In addition, he has extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, college and graduate students, creative professionals, and a range of working adults. Through a supportive psychopharmacologic approach, Dr. Weiss strives to provide a comfortable experience in which doctor and patient work to understand the presenting problems, reduce symptoms, and optimize functioning. In addition, Dr. Weiss encourages concurrent therapy and will communicate with that provider in a collaborative care arrangement. Dr. Weiss previously served as an attending psychiatrist on the staff of Montefiore Medical Center and was formerly a faculty member at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Before joining Talkiatry, Dr. Weiss spent a decade working at The New School as the university's staff psychiatrist.

Dr. Hussain is known for his compassionate, thoughtful approach to psychiatry and his commitment to helping patients feel genuinely seen and supported. He takes pride in getting to know each person as a whole—beyond just symptoms or diagnoses—and works to build on that from the very first session. Originally from New York, Dr. Hussain completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Buffalo, earned his medical degree from St. George’s University, and completed residency training at Northwell Health in New York and Connecticut.

Dr. Hussain treats a wide range of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, bipolar and psychotic disorders. His approach is collaborative and patient-centered, with a strong focus on shared decision-making. Treatment often includes medication management and therapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Sessions are always a judgment-free space where patients feel safe, respected, and empowered.

During an initial visit, Dr. Hussain conducts a thoughtful and collaborative assessment focused on understanding a patient’s symptoms, experiences, and treatment goals. From there, he works closely with each person to develop a personalized plan, including medication options and other therapeutic strategies. His goal is to create a safe, respectful space where patients feel heard, empowered, and supported throughout their care.

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Michelle Harris is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). She earned her Master of Science in Nursing in the psychiatric mental health track at the University of Saint Joseph and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Connecticut. Her training includes psychiatric diagnosis, medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. With over a decade in psychiatric mental health care and 5+ years as a PMHNP, she has worked in outpatient, private practice, telehealth, inpatient, and homecare settings, treating patients from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and immigrant populations. She has a particular interest in ADHD, depression, anxiety, and OCD.

Michelle values a holistic approach to mental health and believes culturally sensitive care is essential. She strives to create a supportive environment for patients of all backgrounds and sexual orientations, ensuring each person feels understood, respected, and empowered in their care.

Michelle focuses on medication management with supportive therapy as appropriate. Initial sessions involve gathering a detailed patient history and discussing individual concerns. She works collaboratively with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan, addressing their unique needs and goals.

Dr. Candice Hacker is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She completed her Psychiatry residency and a fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Mount Sinai/St. Luke's Hospital. She is passionate about a holistic approach to patient care, trained in psychosomatic medicine, and she has a deep appreciation for the intricate connection between the mind and body. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hacker has facilitated excellent outcomes in the treatment of various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions. Dr. Hacker believes in creating a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment where patients can openly explore their emotions and experiences. By integrating evidence-based psycho-pharmacological modalities with mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques, she empowers her patients to challenge a negative mindset and reach their goals. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Hacker is deeply committed to community mental health advocacy and the destigmatization of mental illness.

Dr. Mendez-Maldonado is double board-certified in general psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. She then moved to New York to complete her residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel where she stayed to complete her fellowship in geriatric psychiatry. After her fellowship, she proceeded to work at Woodhull Hospital where she worked as an attending before becoming unit chief and running their Special Pathogens Unit during the COVID-19 pandemic. She focuses on medication management and offers this in conjunction with supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, a focus on nutritional psychiatry, and 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Mendez-Maldonado focuses on integrating nutrition, physical activity, and mindfulness techniques alongside pharmacotherapy to achieve a well-rounded approach to mental health.‍

Dr. Cecilia Fitz-Gerald is a board-certified psychiatrist trained in adult psychiatry and consultation-liaison psychiatry, formerly known as psychosomatic medicine. She has been practicing for over five years and has extensive experience working in a variety of clinical settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry. In addition, she specializes in working with patients with acute and chronic medical conditions that may be affecting their mental health, such as cancer, stroke, or a heart condition. She provides patient-centered care utilizing a collaborative approach to help her patients reach their goals. She is a native of Louisiana and a graduate of the LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. She was elected to the prestigious medical honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha, during her fourth year of medical school and was awarded the John W. Bick Excellence in Psychiatry award. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center where she served as Chief Resident and was a PRITE Fellow. Afterwards, she completed a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Dr. Fitz-Gerald has multiple scholarly publications, particularly in the fields of emergency psychiatry and hospital delirium and has presented at the annual conference for the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. She is passionate about academic medicine and enjoys teaching medical students and residents. Her other areas of clinical interest include ICU delirium and cardiac psychiatry.

Dr. Delima-Tokarz is double Board Certified in Psychiatry and Lifestyle medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency training at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt, where she served as the chief resident. She has practiced in various settings over her career, including working for the Department of Defense, private practice, and community mental health. Dr. Delima-Tokarz is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Dr. Delima-Tokarz has more than five years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health issues. She employs pharmacotherapy along with supportive therapy and integrative approaches. Dr. Delima-Tokarz is currently working on completing her Ph.D. in Integrative Medicine and is passionate about a holistic and integrative approach to mental health. Her philosophy includes a healing-oriented approach that considers the whole person, including all lifestyle aspects. Dr. Delima-Tokarz aims to provide collaborative and comprehensive care, which may include medication management, lifestyle interventions, stress reduction techniques, and other integrative approaches. She believes building a strong therapeutic relationship where the patient feels empowered is the key to healing.‍

Ms. Walkiewicz is a licensed professional counselor and is certified by the NBCC. She also has Certifications in Telehealth EMDR, and as a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. Her position at Talkiatry is that of a psychotherapist who works along with a licensed psychiatrist in the states of Pennsylvania and New York. In her career of over 25 years, her areas of focus are: child/adolescents/adults. Pamela offers modalities in CBT, DBT, Trauma Focused CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Problem Solving Therapy, Psychoanalytical Therapies, and Adult ADHD. Also trained in modalities for specialty groups such as LGBTQ+. Family/couples Therapy, and Personality Disorders. Also has experience with DID, and Depersonalization. Pamela received her Undergraduate and Master's degree from Gannon University in Erie, Pa. Her majors are Political Science, and Psychology, Master's in Community Counseling. She began her career as a therapist at Sarah Reed Children's Center. She did individual therapy, family, crisis, and assessments. From there, she moved to Alabama to do administrative work and private practice. Now back in Pa. Her work in Pennsylvania and New York focuses on Outpatient Therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her most recent Certifications are within the work with Telemedicine for mental health conditions. Her work in Pennsylvania and New York focuses on Outpatient Therapy as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her most recent Certifications are within the work with Telemedicine for mental health conditions.

Dr. Peckover is a Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. He has been practicing for three and a half years. Dr. Peckover provides patient-centered care with an emphasis on medication management, psychoeducational, and lifestyle adjustments. He typically provides supportive or integrative therapy along with medication management, but some cases will require the addition of a therapist to the treatment team. Dr. Peckover received a Bachelor's of Medical Science from the University of Western Ontario in Canada and received his Medical Degree from Ross University. He completed his residency at Metropolitan Hospital in Manhattan, where he served as chief resident in his final year. He then worked as a psychiatrist in the outpatient department at Kings County hospital, where he also supervised residents from SUNY Downstate. As an outpatient psychiatrist, Dr. Peckover has an extensive history of treating patients of all ages with a wide variety of psychiatric disorders, with an emphasis on mood and anxiety disorders. He treated patients remotely during the COVID-19 outbreak, helping to manage the increase in stress that came with the pandemic.

Dr. Alexandra Hamlyn is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. She completed her medical education at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University and then completed her residency in adult psychiatry at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She then went on to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at NYU Langone and Bellevue Hospital. During this time, she also taught a course titled Love Actually at NYU School of Arts and Science. During training, Dr. Hamlyn gained extensive clinical experience in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings, allowing her the opportunity to treat patients of all ages and backgrounds in numerous busy hospitals in New York City. Dr. Hamlyn's primary focus is on medication management, though she also has experience working in four different outpatient clinics where she has gained expertise in multiple different therapy modalities. If appropriate, Dr. Hamlyn will refer you for psychotherapy and collaborate with your therapist to support your care. She appreciates the importance of fostering a meaningful therapeutic relationship, and her goal is to make every patient feel welcomed in a non-judgmental treatment environment. She also takes a holistic approach as she understands that good health creates a sense of overall well-being and improved mental health. She strongly emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, self-compassion, exercise, nutrition, and interpersonal relationships throughout treatment. She looks forward to meeting and working with you.