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Anastasia Ruiz, MD
Dr. Ruiz is a compassionate psychiatrist specializing in adult and maternal mental health. She develops personalized treatment plans to address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and perinatal conditions. Her goal is to help patients reconnect with their values and live balanced, fulfilled, and meaningful lives.
Her passion for medicine began in childhood, inspired by curiosity about the mind and body. She earned an Honors Chemistry degree with magna cum laude and completed her medical training and psychiatry residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. With a strong scientific foundation, Dr. Ruiz understands the role of medications, and embraces holistic healing through connection, gratitude, and spirituality.
Dr. Ruiz has experience in diverse clinical settings and has received national awards including the AWP International Fellowship and ADMSEP Innovations Award. She is dedicated to advancing maternal mental health screening and treatment through clinical care and education.
Dr. Ruiz combines pharmacotherapy (medication) with psychotherapy to create individualized treatment plans. Therapy provides powerful tools to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that support balanced brain chemistry. Research shows that medication helps restore this balance more quickly and effectively, especially in moderate to severe cases.
Dr. Ruiz likens medication for the brain to fertilizer for a garden. Imagine your mental health as a vibrant garden—when well-nourished, it can thrive with resilience, beauty, and balance. But when symptoms like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood instability take hold, they act like invasive weeds, crowding out healthy growth and making it hard to enjoy the space. Medication acts like fertilizer, strengthening the garden’s natural systems so the healthy parts can reclaim their place and flourish. Just as some gardens need only seasonal care while others require more consistent tending, medication plans are personalized to support each person’s long-term mental wellness. When the garden is healthy, there's more room to grow, connect, and fully enjoy life.
With a strong background in chemistry and pharmacology, Dr. Ruiz prioritizes educating her patients about how medications work and why they can be helpful. She believes patients should take an active role in understanding their diagnosis and treatment. Her approach emphasizes diagnostic clarity, medication management, patient education, and brief psychotherapy based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Your first appointment is a supportive, in-depth conversation to share your story, challenges, and goals. Dr. Ruiz will review your medical and psychiatric history and assess symptoms using a whole-person approach that considers biological, psychological, and social factors.
Together, you’ll develop a personalized plan that may include lab work, medication, and therapy. Initial visits last 60 minutes for thorough evaluation; follow-ups typically last 20–30 minutes, focusing on medication management and brief therapy. If needed, Dr. Ruiz can refer you to in-house or community therapists for add-on therapy support.
Throughout your care, Dr. Ruiz prioritizes shared decision making to ensure you feel informed, empowered, and supported.
Emily Komarczyk, MD
Dr. Komarczyk is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who takes a special interest in developing a therapeutic alliance with each patient by providing an informative, encouraging, and holistic approach to mental health. At the heart of her practice is creating a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space that allows her to work collaboratively with her patients to help them achieve their goals. Her treatment plans include evidence-based medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Janeen Paul, MD
Dr. Paul has worked in outpatient private practice psychiatry for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she has combined medication management with talk therapy, to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. Dr. Paul received her MD from The University of Iowa. She completed an intern year in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The University of Illinois, Chicago, and went on to psychiatry residency at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Janeen Paul is board certified in Adult Psychiatry. She specializes in Women's Issues, including pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, and has extensive experience treating depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders, including OCD and PTSD. The mind/body connection is at the forefront of her care, with attention paid to diet and exercise as well as breathing and meditation. She often collaborates with primary care physicians and therapists to provide a team approach to treatment. She treats patients over age 18.
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.
Holly Clark, MD
Dr. Clark is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She is fellowship-trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been in practice for 11 years. She received her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Clark then completed her residency training and continued her training in child and adolescent fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Clark works with patients to create an environment where they feel comfortable and supported. She focuses on medication management along with supportive therapy. Normally visits are 30-minute follow-ups that allow time to focus on areas of support needed. If additional therapy is recommended, she will request a therapist be added to your care team to meet all your needs. Dr. Clark has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with adult, child, and adolescent populations. She has worked in private practice as well as community mental health, where she worked with reaching under-served communities. Dr Clark has a passion for treating both adult and child and adolescent patients with anxiety and depression.
Michael Lukowski, MD
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 12 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy during initial and follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Dr. Lukowski received his medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine in Reno, NV, before moving to southern California to complete his residency at Loma Linda University. After completing training, Dr. Lukowski began working with the Southern California Permanente Medical Group in Riverside, CA, where he treated a variety of psychiatric disorders in an outpatient setting.
In March of 2020, as the pandemic changed life and medicine forever, Dr. Lukowski adopted a strictly telepsychiatry role at his clinic. He has also held a staff psychiatrist position as an adult inpatient psychiatrist in Tennessee. Dr. Lukowski treats a wide variety of psychiatric disorders within the adult demographic.
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.
Maria Carvajal Ramirez, MD
Dr. Maria Teresa Carvajal is an adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist. She is originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, and is bilingual in Spanish and English. Dr. Carvajal earned her medical degree from Universidad de Guayaquil in Ecuador. She then participated in a medical program at The William J. Harrington Training Program for Latin America and the Caribbean, at Jackson Memorial Hospital, an affiliate of the University of Miami in Florida. Afterwards, she completed her adult psychiatry residency at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Bronx Care Health System, and her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Northwell Health in New York. She has experience working in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and emergency departments. Dr. Carvajal has submitted and presented work to the American Psychiatric Association and has also collaborated on a book publication. Dr. Carvajal has experience treating children and adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, dementia, etc. She utilizes medication management in conjunction with emotional and supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. She is passionate about her work and understands the impact of mental illnesses in daily life activities and in the family system. She will work with each patient in an individualized manner and will tailor personalized treatment plans that may include pharmacological treatment. In addition, Dr. Carvajal may recommend including a therapist in your care team to provide the best outcome.
Gerald Matthews, MD
Background and credentials
Dr. Gerald Matthews is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Louisville, KY. Following medical school, he entered active duty service in the U.S. Army, where he completed his psychiatry residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. After completing his training, he practiced as a staff psychiatrist at Fort Hood, TX, fulfilling his service obligation.
Treatment approach
Dr. Matthews specializes in medication management, working primarily with adult patients in an outpatient setting. While his primary focus is pharmacological treatment, he frequently collaborates with therapists to provide comprehensive care when indicated. He has extensive experience treating civilians, active-duty military personnel, and veterans, addressing conditions such as mood and anxiety disorders, psychosis, and trauma-related disorders.
What you can expect in a first visit
During the first visit, patients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation where Dr. Matthews takes time to understand their history, symptoms, and treatment goals. He provides a structured yet compassionate approach to care, discussing medication options and potential therapeutic interventions. For patients who may benefit from additional therapy, he collaborates with therapists to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs.
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.
Michelle Zaydlin, MD
Dr. Michelle Zaydlin is a board-certified psychiatrist who has experience in caring for diverse patient populations presenting with an array of diagnoses. Her interests include neurodevelopmental disorders (autism, ADHD), mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and comorbid medical conditions. She has completed internships in pediatric neuropsychology and worked as a behavior therapist, delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, enriching her understanding of development and neurocognitive functioning. Additionally, Dr. Zaydlin actively participates in research and is actively engaged in educational initiatives for other healthcare providers. Dr. Zaydlin believes in a collaborative and compassionate approach to mental health care. She works with patients across their lifespans, integrating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. She integrates cultural sensitivity with evidence-based practices to provide individualized, holistic care. Her empathetic approach and clinical knowledge enable her to foster meaningful connections with her patients and facilitate positive treatment outcomes.
Elena Perea, MD
Dr. Elena Perea is a board-certified psychiatrist. She completed her undergraduate training at Wake Forest University followed by medical school and residency training at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC).
Dr. Perea holds an adjunct academic appointment at UNC and has been involved in medical education for her entire career. She most recently served as Residency Program Director for the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) psychiatry residency in Asheville, NC. She remains involved in didactic education there for both residents and medical students.
She has a genuine interest in treating a vast array of psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and obsessive compulsive and related disorders. She is a skilled psychopharmacologist and interested in the mind-body connection. She believes physical health greatly affects mental health and vice versa and loves helping patients with medical comorbidities to feel well.
Patients looking for a psychiatrist will find that Dr. Perea has a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and management of her patients. She believes in the principle that body and mind are interconnected and utilizes psychoeducation and psychotherapeutic approaches in addition to medications for total wellness.
Giselle Brito, MD
Dr. Giselle Brito is board-certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 4 years. She received her medical degree from San Juan Bautista, School of Medicine in Puerto Rico and continued her medical education at Jackson Memorial Hospital & University of Miami Hospital for her 4-year psychiatry residency training program. After completing her training, Dr. Brito worked at the Miami Veterans Affairs Hospital and then the Orlando Veterans Affairs Hospital in the primary care mental health integrated model. Dr. Brito also holds certification in Perinatal Mental Health. Dr. Brito's practice focuses on medication management and supportive psychotherapy in typically 30-min follow up visits. At times, additional psychotherapy is needed and a therapist may be added to provide the best outcome.
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.
Candice Webb, DO
Background and credentials
Dr. Webb is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, and obtained her medical degree in Osteopathic Medicine from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Webb completed her psychiatry residency training at Palm Beach Consortium for Graduate Medical Education in Tamarac, Florida. After her training, she served as an attending psychiatrist with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Miami, Florida, and as an attending psychiatrist and mentor for psychiatry residents in training at the University of Miami, Florida International University, and University Hospital and Medical Center in Tamarac.
Treatment approach
Dr. Webb believes in building strong therapeutic relationships with her patients, integrating conservative psychological treatments and lifestyle modifications to enhance overall well-being and quality of life. She primarily provides medication management combined with supportive or emotionally focused therapy. Dr. Webb emphasizes creating individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. While medication and supportive therapy are central to her approach, she occasionally recommends involving an additional therapist to optimize treatment outcomes. Dr. Webb specializes in managing a broad range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, OCD, and PTSD.
What you can expect in a first visit
Patients meeting Dr. Webb for the first time can expect a thoughtful and comprehensive assessment focused on building rapport and understanding their personal and clinical needs. Dr. Webb emphasizes creating a strong therapeutic relationship, developing an individualized care plan designed specifically to address each patient's symptoms and lifestyle. Follow-up appointments typically last around 30 minutes, during which medication management and supportive therapy are provided. Depending on patient needs, Dr. Webb might suggest incorporating additional therapeutic support to achieve the best possible results.
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.
Jacqueline Barrett, MD
Dr. Jacqueline Barrett is Board Certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry and Board Eligible in Forensic Psychiatry. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at Florida International University and her medical degree at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. She completed her residency in Adult Psychiatry at Henry Ford Hospital and went on to complete fellowships in Child and Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Michigan/Center for Forensic Psychiatry. Dr. Barrett has extensive experience working in a variety of healthcare settings, including community mental health centers, inpatient and outpatient programs, and most recently at the Miami Veterans Affairs.
Dr. Barrett believes in a patient-centered approach that combines careful assessment, evidence-based treatment, and individualized care. She works with each patient to create a personalized plan that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals. By integrating psychiatric expertise with compassion and collaboration, she empowers patients to take an active role in their mental health journey.
During your first visit, you can expect a thorough and compassionate evaluation in a warm, supportive environment where you will feel heard and respected. Dr. Barrett values open communication and works collaboratively with her patients to establish clear treatment goals. Her approach is rooted in trust, empathy, and partnership, ensuring that every patient feels comfortable and supported throughout their care.
Kevin DiCesare, MD
Dr. Kevin DiCesare is a board-certified psychiatrist, treating adults. He received his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, his medical degree at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and then went on to train at Maine Medical Center for his psychiatric residency. He has 22 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar spectrum disorders, adjustment problems, ADHD and other disorders. He is well versed in psychopharmacological interventions, but is a proponent of patients also being active in psychotherapy whenever appropriate. He prides himself in collaboratively arriving at treatment decisions with his patients, and taking the time to listen to their concerns and answer their questions.
Dr. DiCesare has worked in various settings, including community mental health centers and large hospital systems, with experience in inpatient, outpatient, and consultative roles. Prior to joining Talkiatry, he most recently served as an attending psychiatrist on the staff of Southern New Hampshire Health System, where he provided consultative care to referrals made from primary care providers and various specialists.
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 Cigna?
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 Postpartum Depression?
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.
