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Shantale Williams-Jules, MD
Dr. Williams-Jules is an adult psychiatrist who focuses primarily on medication management in conjunction with supportive therapy. She completed her undergraduate training at Spelman College in Atlanta, GA, followed by her master's in public health degree at New York Medical College. She has completed medical school at American University of Antigua and finished her residency in psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern. Dr. Williams-Jules has a passion for treating adults with mental health disorders, especially within the perinatal population. She has a genuine interest in management of trauma, while also treating a vast array of disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder. She has worked with clients of varying cultures and demographics, and has experience with treating patients with medical comorbidities. Dr. Williams-Jules takes a delicate approach to diagnosis and management and believes in holistic care, which incorporates mindfulness and deep breathing techniques to address the mind and body connection. She tailors individualized treatment to address the specific needs of patients. Dr. Williams-Jules is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the Dallas County Medical Society. She has presented her research at the Annual APA conference and is co-author of many published psychiatric papers.
Puja Kumar, MD
Background and credentials
Dr. Puja Kumar is trained in adult, child, and adolescent psychiatry and is a board-certified pediatrician. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary and her medical degree from St. George’s University in Grenada. She completed her pediatrics residency at Maimonides Medical Center in New York and practiced pediatrics with MedStar Shah Medical Group in Maryland before transitioning to psychiatry. She later trained in child and adult psychiatry at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center.
Treatment approach
Dr. Kumar provides medication management combined with supportive therapy, typically in 30-minute follow-up visits. She takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the impact of lifestyle, parenting practices, and family dynamics on mental health. She emphasizes integrative care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.
What you can expect in a first visit
During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation, where Dr. Kumar takes time to understand their symptoms, medical history, and environmental influences. She prioritizes collaborative decision-making, working closely with patients and, when applicable, their families, to develop a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. Follow-up visits typically focus on medication adjustments, supportive therapy, and lifestyle recommendations to optimize mental health outcomes.
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.
Vanessa Valdes, MD
Dr. Vanessa Valdes is an adult psychiatrist specializing in medication management and psychotherapy, with a strong focus on nutrition, wellness, and mindfulness. She earned her combined MD/MPH degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Health System, one of the nation's leading public healthcare systems.During her residency, Dr. Valdes gained broad experience in diverse areas of psychiatry, including inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, outpatient care, psychotherapy, hypnosis, child and adolescent psychiatry, consultation-liaison psychiatry, psycho-oncology, and addiction psychiatry.Dr. Valdes primarily provides supportive psychotherapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to help patients better understand and address their stressors. She takes a holistic approach to care, emphasizing the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of her patients. Her goal is to inspire meaningful, sustainable changes in patients' lives through compassionate, comprehensive treatment.
Sabera Saklayen, MD
Background and credentials
Dr. Sabera Saklayen is a board-certified psychiatrist licensed in Adult Psychiatry. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and her medical degree from Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatry training at Stony Brook University Hospital, where she served as chief resident and was awarded the William Turner Award for outstanding performance in psychiatry residency. She has extensive experience treating diverse populations, including vulnerable and underserved communities, having worked as an outpatient psychiatrist at Bellevue Hospital for two years.
Treatment approach
Dr. Saklayen specializes in medication management but takes a holistic, patient-centered approach that integrates supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing (MI). She has extensive experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, OCD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. She is particularly skilled in treating college students and individuals navigating difficult life transitions. If more in-depth therapy is needed, she may refer patients to a therapist as part of a comprehensive care plan.
What you can expect in a first visit
During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation, where Dr. Saklayen carefully assesses symptoms, history, and treatment goals. She prioritizes collaboration and individualized treatment planning, ensuring that patients feel comfortable and supported in their mental health care. Follow-up visits are typically 30 minutes and focus on medication management and therapy integration, with referrals to additional therapy when needed for the best possible outcome.
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.
Alisa Zezetko, MD
Dr. Zezetko completed her medical training at the University of Georgia/August University Medical Partnership. While in medical school, she received a Master of Business Administration at the University of Georgia. She then moved to North Carolina to complete her psychiatric residency training at the Brody School of Medicine/ECU Health Medical Center. During her training, she gained extensive clinical experience in working with adults and veterans in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings. She also served as a chief resident of the psychiatry program and published several case studies.
Dr. Zezetko relies on evidence-based treatments to guide pharmacotherapy decisions. In addition to medication management, she also incorporates supportive psychotherapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy techniques in her visits with her patients. When appropriate, Dr. Zezetko will refer patients for further psychotherapy and collaborate with therapists to provide more comprehensive care. Dr. Zezetko takes great pride in forming meaningful connections with her patients and listening to their concerns.
Dr. Zezetko will conduct a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and take time to understand patients’ individual concerns, mental health goals, and history. Dr. Zezetko believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship that empowers patients to join in a collaborative discussion for optimizing their individual treatment plans and reaching their defined goals.
Meena Shah, MD
Dr. Meena Shah is a board-eligible psychiatrist and has been practicing for over 16 years. She specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Shah's practice focuses on medication management in conjunction with supportive and emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow up visits. Dr. Shah believes in the importance of building a therapeutic relationship with her patients and families to help achieve their emotional goals. Dr. Shah completed her residency training through Richmond University Medical Center with NY Medical College and completed her fellowship at Brookdale University Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Shah has extensive experience with the child and adolescent population and worked with foster care programs as well as juvenile residential facility programs .Dr. Shah served as Children's Associate Medical Director at Directions for Living Mental Health Clinic and went on to become Medical Director at Sequel Care of Florida. In addition, Dr. Shah also received her Master's degree in Hyperbaric Medicine. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Florida with a major in psychology. Dr. Shah's primary clinical focus has been treating children, and young adults with ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and helping them establish coping skills to overcome any life obstacle.
Marcia Morris, MD
Dr. Marcia Morris is a psychiatrist with over thirty years of experience providing medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy to adult patients. She takes a positive psychiatry approach to treatment, prescribing medication while supporting patient strengths, social connections, and healthy habits. She has worked with university students as well as employees in an employee assistance program. She provides care for patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. In her previous role as an Associate Professor at the University of Florida, she has done research on the increase in depression and anxiety as well as the increased use of psychiatric medications among university students. She has published academic papers and given national talks in these topics with the goal of decreasing stigma and improving mental health care for young adults. She is a founding member of the Association for College Psychiatry and a member of the American Psychiatric Association college mental health caucus. Dr. Morris provides education to the public about mental health as a writer and public speaker. Her articles have appeared in the New York Times, the Tampa Bay Times, and the Huffington Post. She also has been interviewed on NPR and several podcasts. She currently writes a Psychology Today parenting blog "College Wellness: Promoting Happiness & Health in the College Years.” Her book, "The Campus Cure: A Parent's Guide to Mental Health & Wellness for College Students,” was published January 2018. Dr. Morris has an undergraduate degree from Harvard, a medical degree from Yale, and psychiatry residency training at New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center. She is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.
Albert Luong, MD
Dr. Albert Luong is a Board Certified adult psychiatrist who integrates a friendly and collaborative approach to treating psychiatric conditions. For him, building strong therapeutic relationships is key to helping patients achieve their goals. In line with holistic treatment, Dr. Luong utilizes psychotherapy and medication management to implement a safe, empathic, and individualistic framework that allows for healing and wellness. Dr. Luong works primarily with patients dealing with depression, anxiety, stress management, and lack of fulfillment, among other life challenges. Dr. Luong completed undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in biological sciences and graduating with the highest distinction. He received his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and completed an adult psychiatry residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. As part of his training, he was the Chief Resident of the Adult Outpatient Psychiatry Department, supervising trainees and treating patients with various psychiatric illnesses.
Gusta Shurdut, MD
Dr.Gusta Shurdut is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with 8 year experience. She completed her medical training at SUNY Downstate Medical center in Brooklyn, and psychiatric residency at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, NYC. After her residency, she worked as an assistant professor at Mount Sinai Psychiatric Ambulatory Services. Dr.Shurdut graduated magna cum laude from Columbia University with an undergraduate degree in biology. Prior to moving to New York, she obtained a degree in communications and public relations and worked as a journalist at her hometown in Latvia.
Dr.Shurdut believes in individual, empathetic, and collaborative treatment approach. Through her residency and work experiences, Dr.Shurdut has developed expertise to treat various mental health conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD. While her primary focus is medication management, she also incorporates CBT, psychodynamic and supportive psychotherapy.
Dr.Shurdut’s goal is empowering patients to participate in their healthcare choices. As a psychiatrist, she feels honored to witness the complexity of the human experience, and curious to explore the factors that contribute to it. On intake appointment, she will take time to understand your concern, provide assessment, discuss treatment options and collaboratively decide on most appropriate action. The follow up appointments are usually 30 minutes and include a psychotherapy modality.
Mona Ismail, MD
Dr. Ismail is double board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Cairo University, where she also completed her neurology residency at Cairo University Hospitals. Following this, she pursued psychiatric training at New York Medical College at St. Vincent’s Hospitals, where she was appointed Chief Resident and recognized as Resident of the Year.
Dr. Ismail further specialized with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UMDNJ/Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Her career includes multiple leadership roles, notably serving as Chief of the Child and Adolescent Partial Hospital Programs (PHP) at Rutgers University in Newark, NJ, where she provided direct care to young patients. She has also held Medical Director positions across various clinical settings, including child and adolescent inpatient units, outpatient programs, and intensive outpatient services for both adolescents and adults with mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders.
An active educator, Dr. Ismail has been a teaching faculty member, delivering lectures and providing supervision and evaluations for medical residents and child and adolescent psychiatry fellows. Her academic contributions extend to research, where she has served as a principal investigator on multiple studies.
Throughout her career in leadership and teaching, Dr. Ismail maintained an integrative private practice in New Jersey, serving residents of the NJ and NY metropolitan areas before relocating to North Carolina.
Dr. Ismail is passionate about integrative medicine, which combines evidence-based alternative therapies with conventional treatments to optimize outcomes. Her approach focuses on promoting overall wellness, keeping both the body and mind in harmony.
During the diagnostic evaluation, Dr. Ismail will review your medical history and past treatments to develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that prioritizes your overall wellness. In addition to medication management, she incorporates supportive, cognitive, or psychodynamic psychotherapy during follow-up visits, as time allows. When appropriate, she may also recommend referrals to specialized psychotherapists to address your individual needs as part of a holistic treatment approach.
Maxine Minto, MD
Dr. Maxine Minto is a double board-certified psychiatrist. She is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Dr. Minto is an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. She is an active member of both the APA and American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Minto received her medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She completed her general psychiatry residency and child-adolescent fellowship at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. She has more than 25+ years of experience working in the psychiatric profession. She has previously worked extensively in the role of medical director in multiple settings. Dr. Minto was honored with the role of medical director of a large community mental health center, child psychiatry inpatient program, adult and child inpatient residential treatment program, and outpatient residential day treatment program. She also has 8 years of experience working with the Deaf community. Dr. Minto specializes in psychopharmacology and supportive therapy. She performs comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, develops patient-centered individualized treatment plans, and schedules regular follow-up appointments. She has a wealth of experience in treating patients with depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and anxiety disorders.
Shelley Sellinger, MD
Dr. Shelley Sellinger is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been in practice for 25 years. Her career has been devoted to serving both her local community as well as high-risk and underserved patients. As a pioneer and advocate for the use of telepsychiatry years prior to the pandemic, she has presented at the American Telehealth conference as well as at grand rounds. Dr. Sellinger's practice focuses on medication management as well as supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy. She believes that a combination of therapy, as well as the use of medications, helps provide a patient with the best outcome. Her goal is to help patients live their best and most fulfilling lives. In addition to general psychiatry, she has a keen interest in mood disorders, helping creatives achieve their goals and the LGBTQ community.
Shama Milon, MD
Background and credentials
Dr. Shama Milon is a triple-board eligible physician in Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her undergraduate degree from Duke University and her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She completed her combined training in Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, where she served as chief resident during her final year of training.
Treatment approach
Dr. Milon specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and patients with co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions. She is dedicated to outpatient care, focusing on long-term relationships with her patients. Her treatment approach is comprehensive, integrating medication management with psychotherapy, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), play therapy, dyadic therapy, and family therapy. She emphasizes creating an empathetic, judgment-free space where patients and families feel supported and understood. If she believes additional therapy is necessary, she may recommend adding a therapist to the care team.
What you can expect in a first visit
During the first visit, patients can expect a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, where Dr. Milon carefully assesses physical, emotional, and psychological needs. She takes a holistic and patient-centered approach, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances. She prioritizes open communication and collaboration with both patients and families to create a structured, effective treatment plan that may include medication management and therapy interventions.
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.
Patricia Klaine, MD
Dr. Patricia Klaine is an attending physician working at Talkiatry. She is board certified in adult psychiatry. After completing her training in adult psychiatry, she continued her education by completing a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry, which enables her to treat patients with a variety of medical comorbidities confidently. Dr. Klaine focuses on medication management. She offers this in addition to supportive psychotherapy in 30-minute follow up visits. For some patients, it may be important to bring in additional psychotherapy for well-rounded care. Dr. Klaine received her medical degree from St. George's University in Grenada, and after that, she completed her training in general adult psychiatry at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. She went on to complete a fellowship in consultation-liaison psychiatry at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. After completing her training, she worked on an inpatient psychiatric unit before deciding to transition into outpatient psychiatric care. She looks forward to a collaborative relationship with her patients.
Patricia de la Cabada, MD
Dr. Patricia de la Cabada earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Central Florida/HCA Consortium in Gainesville, where she served as outpatient chief resident and received the Excellence in Psychotherapy award. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Florida and has experience in outpatient, inpatient, and consult-liaison psychiatry. Dr. de la Cabada is fluent in Spanish and has special interests in OCD, depression, perinatal depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and PTSD.
Dr. de la Cabada approaches care with empathy and compassion, creating a warm, supportive environment. She values strong therapeutic relationships and uses a holistic lens that considers lifestyle and psychosocial factors. Her collaborative, patient-centered style focuses on creating personalized treatment plans.
She begins with a thorough history and discussion of concerns and goals. Treatment plans include medication management, supportive therapy, and lifestyle strategies, with follow-up visits to monitor progress and adapt care as needed.
Caitlin Gardiner, MD
Dr. Caitlin Gardiner is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy. Dr. Caitlin Gardiner's practice is based on the biopsychosocial model and believes that the foundation of healing is in psychotherapy and human connection. She is known for incorporating therapy into her medication management practice. Typically she offers 30-minute follow-up visits for medication management with focused therapy based on individual needs. As a known helper, Dr. Gardiner started her career with a bachelor's degree in social work from Cazenovia College in Cazenovia, NY. After changing career paths, she received her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY. She stayed upstate to complete her general psychiatry residency, where she was chief resident at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this, she completed her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Upstate due to the high quality of training. Dr. Gardiner has completed 3 years of advanced training in Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy as well as specialized training in DBT. Dr. Gardiner is a well-rounded psychiatrist who enjoys treating youth and young adults during transitional phases of life while providing a safe and supportive environment. She believes strongly in reducing polypharmacy and providing high-quality medication management through a therapeutic and developmental lens.
Find the right fit fast
Our process was built to help you get the care you’re looking for quickly, with personalized matches and easy online booking.
What psychiatry shouldn’t be
What you get with Talkiatry
Go from searching to scheduled in minutes
Tell us about you
Enter your location, insurance details, and what kind of care you’re looking for.
Get in-network matches
We’ll show you clinicians who take your insurance, specialize in your concerns, and have availability.
Get seen quickly
Great care shouldn’t mean a long wait. Our average time to a first visit is 6 days, not weeks or months.
FAQs
How does Talkiatry work?
Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice designed to make high-quality mental health care more accessible. We’re 100% virtual, in-network with major insurance plans, and first appointments are typically available in days.
To get started, you’ll complete a quick online assessment to tell us what you’re looking for. We’ll match you with psychiatrists who are licensed in your state, in-network with your insurance, and experienced in treating your concerns. You’ll choose the clinician you’d like to work with.
Your first visit is an in-depth evaluation where your psychiatrist will listen, provide a diagnosis, and work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your goals and preferences. You’ll continue seeing the same clinician over time, adjusting your plan as your needs evolve. Our team is always here to help with scheduling, insurance, and questions about your care.
Do you provide therapy?
Care at Talkiatry starts with psychiatry. If you already have a Talkiatry psychiatrist, they can refer you to one of our therapists if you’ve decided together that therapy is the right next step. However, you can’t see a Talkiatry therapist if you aren’t already seeing one of our psychiatrists.
What should I do if I’m having an emergency?
Talkiatry does not provide emergency care. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please visit your nearest emergency room, call 911, or call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
How much will my visit cost?
The majority of our visits cost patients $25 or less after insurance*, but your exact out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan. The best way to get a clear estimate is to contact your insurance provider directly. Here’s what to ask them:
- Do I have mental health benefits that include outpatient psychiatry?
- Is Talkiatry in-network for my plan?
- What’s my copay or coinsurance for outpatient psychiatry visits?
- Do I have a deductible? If so, how close am I to meeting it?
- Do I have an out-of-pocket maximum? If so, how close am I to reaching it?
- Are virtual or telehealth psychiatry visits covered the same as in-person care?
- Is prior authorization required for outpatient psychiatry?
- Can you provide a cost estimate for an in-network psychiatry visit using CPT code 99204?
- Can you provide a cost estimate for an in-network psychotherapy visit using CPT code 90833?
*Includes all patient costs from 9/24-9/25: copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 payments. Excludes missed appt. fees. Your medical visit costs can vary depending on insurance coverage.
What if I don’t want to take medication?
Psychiatrists are medical doctors, and medication is often part of how they treat mental health conditions. At Talkiatry, your psychiatrist will start by listening and discussing your options with you. Medication is always your choice, but if it’s not something you’re open to considering, we may not be the best fit for ongoing care at this time.
How do I know if Talkiatry can help me?
Talkiatry provides virtual, in-network psychiatric care for people struggling with mild to moderate mental health issues. Here’s what we can help with:
- Anxiety
- ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)
- Bipolar disorder
- Child & adolescent care
- Depression
- OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
- Pregnancy & postpartum care
- PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Substance use disorder
Our goal is to connect you with the best possible care for you. At your first visit, your doctor will confirm whether Talkiatry is the right fit. If they recommend in-person or higher-level care, they’ll guide you to the appropriate resources.
What if my insurance changes from Aetna?
Insurance changes are common, and we’re here to help. Talkiatry is in-network with thousands of plans. If your insurance changes, reach out to a Care Coordinator to update your information and confirm your coverage by calling 833-351-TALK (8255).
Do I still take the assessment if I’m already diagnosed with OCD?
Yes. Our online assessment is an important part of how we match you with the right psychiatrist. Your first visit will include a thorough evaluation so your psychiatrist can confirm your diagnosis and tailor your treatment plan to your current needs.
